If you have a 2 or 1 piece cat it's no worries either way. The basic dimensions are the same - manifold + cat and Manicat are basically the same length. I would not be considering the OE option on cost grounds alone. Similarly getting one from the breakers would not be an option, it'll just break up again in time.

The choice is yours, but this is what I'd do:

Have the manifold off, inspect the cat for breaking up. I know the test said it was knackered, but that could just mean it was worn out not necessarily that it was breaking up and impeding the exhaust flow. If the cat is not breaking up then look for another answer - if it is, then proceed as follows...

Order 4-2-1 manifold, XSPower recommended. Order universal cat from ebay. When both arrive, take to exhaust fitter and have them cut the flanges off the XSPower decat pipe. They need to be welded to the universal cat, and the length has to be the same as the decat. The orientation of the holes has to be the same too, I got my measurements SLIGHTLY wrong and the install was twisted. Once this is done, the manifold needs to be fitted, with the modified cat. The midsection of the exhaust will need to be cut and mated to the Cat exit flange.

If you need any help on this, gizza PM or summat

Was that a Brown Egg by any chance

Glad it's sorted Paul, enjoy

Oh yeah, give Unipart a try for the bearing - pretty sure I saw one in there when I was looking, but got an OE one on Ebay instead...

hooray! What option did you go for in the end, the £400 ones?

i actually replied earlier from work but my post has gone..error on my part no doubt. Are you ready for this!! I got my car back yesterday and it works like a dream. I took it on a quiet stretch of road last night and put my foot down a little [obviously within the said speed limit] and it goes like a frikkin missile. i swear to god i was scared stiff. It sounds beautiful to..as i approached the garage to pick her up they had the engine running and the first thing i had noticed was exhaust emissions...a knackered cat doesnt let go of the exhaust gases correctly and so you dont really see much coming out... pressure is also low.

Now thats sorted, i just need..
A rear bearing fitted
Timing belt checked.. out of curiosity more than anything - make sure it aint gonna snap
a dent knocking out at the back and spraying - a few spots of rust showing on the wheel arches too..

The fact is that, although i know its like throwing money away due to the current value of it but......i really love it. The interior is spotless and the shape is awesome..worth every penny. I keep meaning to check which number evo it is but always forget.

By the way, if anyone can recommend anyone for spray job, let me know...Thanks for your help people and have a groovy xmas.

Paul

glad you've got it sorted

Hi Androooo - Yep £400.

Apols for writing about my good news twice..i didnt see the 'page2' link..ooops and thought my posts were disappearing....lol..dork.

I'vedone 70 miles since yesterday..mostly around the bypas nr to where i live. i love it....really really love it.

Willcheck ebay for bearing now..muhahahaha the world is mine... all mine.

yeah irrc rear bearing needs whole new hub - but not that bad in price. Glad youre loving it mate

Yes it does, and mine was a genuine Hyundai jobbie and was £35 posted. Happily, I didnt need it and it sold again some weeks later for £45

someone got a bargain then!
they are a piece of p*ss to do on the back also.! really easy about 20mins when i did mine.