Not to nitpik, but actually, in CA the smog inspection is bi-annual (every 2 years).

About a decade or so ago, CA tightened up the rules on aftermarket cats so that a manufacturer must certify the cat for each and every model of vehicle, rather than being able to certify it for just the specific engine (which may be used in several models). That is why you won't find CA legal aftermarket cats for anything other than very popular high volume vehicles; the certification process is quite expensive and time consuming. However, in the other 49 states, the cat is certified by engine, so it makes financial sense for the aftermarket manufacturers; a single certification process can cover a range of vehicles. I have thought about driving out of state and installing an aftermarket cat, then returning. My guess is that it would indeed pass CA smog check and not be a problem, but....

 

I thought CA did visual inspections too?
Every 2 yrs here in O-H-I-O too, based on model year, even/odd years. My '07 is due next year, however we can get the test up to 365days in advance, and it's just an obd2 check here now. I have a self check kiosk a few miles from me, 5minutes diy and drive away. I'm clear until 2023.

 

I just went to local classifieds, here in montreal, I found one for 350can$

Fits Hummer H3 3.5L Manifold Catalytic Converter 2006 DirectFit 12H41-825,
https://www.kijiji.ca/v-engines-and-...nt=app_android

Price: $ 350

Download the application from the Google Play Store.
https://tinyurl.com/9x9f4jd

Its got to be 268us$.. is it expensive?? Ok, + the install, let say another 3hrs of labour... again, i don't know the CA rates

 

I get you are trying to help, but the parts you dug up are for an I5, this thread is about ALPHA Cats so useless to the OP.

 

Oh, sorry, nevermind what I mentioned on top...

 

They only do a quick cursory look most times. A brand new shiny part would likely make them check it out closer, but otherwise, if the cat looks like it has been there awhile... I've never had them actually crawl under the vehicle and look that close.

 

Nit picker.

 

 

lol

 

Find someone who put a header on and took off thier exhaust manifold. You can buy one used for not too much. The Cat is on the back end of the exhaust manifold.