Catalytic Converter

[piffsedge13]

So today I took my truck to the shop so I could have another set of eyes look at it. I have a squeal coming from the front of the truck when i take off at some points, and its only sometimes. So I get a call at 11:30 saying that the sound is coming from the catalytic converter?? I'm really confused.

So me thinking outloud: Is it just loose? Heat Shields Loose? Is it clogged and expanding, and the squeal is the air moving around the clog? Just some thoughts...

So heres the question: How hard would it be for me to drop the catalytic converter and check it? Is it cleanable say something is clogged, and how should I clean it? Any ideas on how to stop the squeal/ squeak?

Any help would be greatly appreciated...thanks in advance

Edit: Called the mechanic again (a buddy) and he says it also had an exhaust leak. Is this the noise i'm hearing?

 

[rurouni20xx]

whistling from an exhaust leak is common, also sounds like a ticking at times. checking convertors involves visual inspection after removal, and if its stopped up you change it, plain and simple. ive never heard of cleaning a converter out b4, its kind of like cleaning an o2 sensor or spark plug, you can get it fairly clean, but in the end itll fail soon, best to replace it. fix your leak and reevaluate from there since convertors cost $$$. do you exhibit any other symptoms i.e. poor driveability, lack of power, lagging, crap mileage, check engine lights etc? these are signs of cats being stopped up, if you dont have these problems or they are minor (slight decrease in mileage but full power) it is prob just a leak. again fix the leak and go from there.