So I think the horse needs a Cat. I really want to do a high-flow cat, I really want to do a magnaflow cat, however does anyone know of a cheaper alternative that isn't a complete waste of money? this a bone stock motor(except for the roller timing chain, that is 10yrs old). I am almost positive that if this truck had a muffler instead of a straight pipe after the cat she would be running much worse than she is.

 

What exactly do you think is wrong with the current cat? It flows plenty for a stock engine. Read this caption:

 

Well It has crappy power at the mid range, and it smells hot, not the rotten eggs smell yet, after being driven. It is a 20 yr old cat that has set for the last 5 years, and I believe it is [art of the TLC she needs

 

No, cats aren't affected by age or disuse, and they aren't maintenance items. If they're not blocked, they have NO effect on how the engine runs. I highly recommend you leave it alone.