99 Civic LX CatCon problem

I got the dreaded code P0420 stating the catalytic converter is below
threshold efficiency. I have one of those stupid manifold/catalytic
converter one-piece units to the tune of $500+! Has anyone replaced
this setup with an aftermarket header and under-the-car converter that
is still emissions legal? Can you lead me to the parts? Do the parts
from an earlier model fit?
jf

 

Isn't the cat warranty longer, like over 5 years?

 

Check with your local Honda dealer. If the cat is bad, it should still be covered under warranty even though the rest of the car may be out of the
warranty period. I've heard within this newsgroup to be the case, unless I was misinformed, but what do you have to loose by calling the dealer....10
minutes of your time?

Hope this helps,
Nick

 

This is what the dealer told you when you called?

Nick

 

Yes, and all the stuff on the net says the same thing. Do you know
something different?