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Topic: CatClamp vs. CatStrap? (Read 290 times) previous topic - next topic
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CatClamp vs. CatStrap?
As I reported in December, I had my catalytic converter stolen from my Lazy Daze mid-bath finding out right before I left for the winter in Puerto Penasco.  (I just got home yesterday.)  I got it fixed, but as you know I had problems with my inverter and my breaker tripping when I tried to plug in to shore power.  Thanks to your suggestions and two "uh Mexican handymen" later I finally got the issue resolved. 
Apologies for not reporting back, but a few days later my three unit bridge came "unglued" and luckily I was able to talk to my dentist at home and found a dentist to re-cement my undamaged bridge.  I then went through a bout with sciatica, but a PT in Puerto Penasco helped me with treatments and gave me exercises and now I'm "fine." 
However, I digress...
I returned home yesterday and since I cancelled my contract with my storage facility (I was broken into/vandalized three times) I'm trying to find another facility nearer to my home.  Since virtually EVERY RV storage facility in Las Cruces has had break-in's (mainly for catalytic converters) I feel I need to at least try to protect my Lazy Daze.  Therefore, I've watched several videos comparing the CatClamp to the CatStrap.  Yes, I know nothing is foolproof if someone really wants what isn't theirs but I want at least a good "deterrent."
All of this makes me somewhat sad, as my 1998 mid-bath was the "RV of my dreams" to enjoy in my retirement.  It makes me sad as I've tried to take excellent care of my investment and had the seating areas done in cream colored "pleather" and I invested in having the outside repainted.  At 86,000 miles it runs great and looks good for it's age.  I wish at my age I looked as well. 
It's just that sometimes I wonder if the added stress that goes with owning an RV is worth it.  (No, I'm NOT selling!)
Thanks for allowing me to vent, and my "question" is CatClamp or CatStrap?
Cheryl (a.k.a. Desert Diva)
1998 Lazy Daze (26.5 mid-bath)
2002 Honda CR-V


Re: CatClamp vs. CatStrap?
Reply #2
The one that Margee and I installed is called CatStrap at Don't leave your car unprotected get the CatStrap today! – Converter Reclaim .   And we still have our catalytic converter so probably it’s doing it’s job.
Thanks for the input.  I'm "on the fence" about which one, but I know with the rash of catalytic converters stolen blatantly from RV storage facilities in Southern New Mexico I need to "step up my game."  You'd think I'm paying enough for storage, but it still happens here and often...
Cheryl (a.k.a. Desert Diva)
1998 Lazy Daze (26.5 mid-bath)
2002 Honda CR-V

Re: CatClamp vs. CatStrap?
Reply #3
I installed a CatStrap a couple of years ago. To ensure the heat-sensitive adhesive made tight contact, all the metal surfaces were sanded to remove surface rust and dirt. The cable was clamped all along the catalytic converter and the exhaust pipe on both sides of the converter. Additional clamps besides were used besides what were provided in the kit.

Ten thousand miles later, the adhesive had completely failed,  the clamps were all that kept the Cat Strap in place, leaving it once again an easy target.
To rescue the converter, I added two steel cables (winch cable), running them through the converter's heat shield, using the same clamps that secured the Cat Strap.

If I were to make choice today in adding protection for the converter today, a CatClamp would be it, the connections are all mechanical and do not depend on an adhesive that is prone to failure.
It looks like a better-designed device.

Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: CatClamp vs. CatStrap?
Reply #4

If I were to make choice today in adding protection for the converter today, a CatClamp would be it, the connections are all mechanical and do not depend on an adhesive that is prone to failure.
It looks like a better-designed device.

Larry
Thanks for replying.  I tend to agree with you after watching this YouTube video We Tested Catalytic Converter Anti-Theft Products.
Every RV storage facility I've called with the exception of one has had catalytic converters stolen.  Therefore it becomes a question not of "if" but "when."  The facility I've called (and the closest to my house) has a dump and water and in the next few weeks plans to build a cement walled structure to replace the fence that is easily cut though at most facilities. 
I'm going to call the muffler shop tomorrow (who replaced the catalytic converter in December) to see if they can install the CatClamp. 
Sadly, it's just a reality of the world we're living in...

Cheryl
Cheryl (a.k.a. Desert Diva)
1998 Lazy Daze (26.5 mid-bath)
2002 Honda CR-V

Re: CatClamp vs. CatStrap?
Reply #5
All we can do is make stealing a converter so difficult that the thieves move on to a softer target.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: CatClamp vs. CatStrap?
Reply #6
Indeed - I sadly completely agree... 
Cheryl (a.k.a. Desert Diva)
1998 Lazy Daze (26.5 mid-bath)
2002 Honda CR-V