Hey everyone! Below are DIY install instructions for Berk Technology High Flow Cats for the 370Z. These will also be the same for their Test Pipes.
Estimated Install Time = 2-4 hours
Difficulty = Moderate
Tools Needed:
Floor Jack
Jack Stands (4)
14mm socket
Ratchet
Extensions (Approx. 24" worth)
Breaker Bar
Socket Flex Adapter
14mm, 22mm, 16mm wrenches
Penetrating Oil
Rubber Mallet
Step 1:
Using the floor jack, raise one side of the car off the ground and place jack stands under safe point. Repeat for other side. The car should be supported by the jack stands with all four wheels off the ground. Lift the car high enough to be able to lay underneath it.
Step 2:
Using the 14mm socket and ratchet, remove the two bolts connecting each catalytic converter to the y-pipe.
Step 3:
Using the 14mm socket and ratchet, remove the two bolts connecting the y-pipe to the muffler section. Remove the y-pipe and set aside.
Step 4:
Un-plug the o2 sensor from the harness it is connected to. Using the 22mm wrench, remove the o2 sensors from the catalytic converters and set aside.
Step 5:
Using the 14mm socket and ratchet, remove the four bolts connecting the cross brace to the catalytic converters and transmission. Set the brace and bolts aside.
Step 6:
This is the fun part. Remove the three 14mm bolts connecting the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifolds by any means possible (Photo 6). They are tough to get to and very tight. I suggest using a penetrating oil (Photo 6-0) to help make life a little easier.
For the top two bolts, you will have to use your ratchet, approx. 24” worth of extensions, a universal joint, and a 14mm socket. Connect all of these parts and fish this frankentool down through the engine bay onto the top bolt holding the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifold through the areas circled in photos 6-1 and 6-2. Use a breaker bar to break the bolt loose if you have to (Photo 6-4). On the driver’s side of the car, to get the socket onto the bolt I had to remove the intake hose for more room (Photo 6-2). This only requires the use of a flathead screwdriver to loosen the hose clamps. This was not necessary on the passenger side. Caution: This is extremely tight. I broke multiple ratchets, sockets, and extensions before I finally got it to break loose so don’t do this install unless you have another mode of transportation to get to the auto parts store if you break a tool.
Once all three bolts are out, the catalytic converters can be removed completely (Photo 6-3).
Photo 6:
Photo 6-0:
Photo 6-1:
Photo 6-2:
Photo 6-3:
Photo 6-4:
Step 7:
Reverse steps to install the Berk Technology High Flow Cats using the supplied gaskets and hardware. *Note, the supplied bolts are a 16mm head on the bolt, and a 14mm nut.
Please do this install at your own risk. Double Down Motorsports does not hold any responsibility for problems that may occur due to installing these parts on your vehicle. As always, it is recommended to have a professional install these parts.