VC Intrepid bypass catalyst -- details?

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kord

New Member
Jul 7, 2015
3
Urbana, IL
Wondering about temporary reconfiguring inside of VC Intrepid to bypass the catalytic system -- inspired by such a story on the forum. I believe I remember Nyquil Junkie doing this, but NJ never posted the details or pics -- it sounded potentially simple, though. If you are out there NJ, or anybody else with advice on this... I'm not against the catalytic system (I loved it when it worked) but before spending $600 plus to replace all the necessary insides of the stove, I'm wondering if I can test my rebuild cement job (still in process) this winter before biting the bullet, by using the stove as it was designed before they added the catalytic element.
 
Isn't there a damper to bypass the catalyst? The catalyst produces some heat when it's running, so you may find you will get less heat output.
 
I never use my cat on my vc ditch west. I leave the built in bypass open.
 
Why? That's quite inefficient.
 
Why? That's quite inefficient.
You'd be surprised. It burns for 8 straight. Had the downstairs at 78+ all day. I just turn the intake down all the way when the temp starts to rise on the stove. When I get a new cat for it I'll start closing the bypass.
 
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