[Old Davy]

Update:
Update: whole lotta data-mining and came up with these. Magnaflow Canada has two alternatives worth experimenting with.
Part # 50004 - 3" dia, 10" long w center 2" in/out-lets.
Part # 54904 - 5" dia, 14" long w offset 2" in/out-lets.
Both listed compatible with SVX 1992-95. Not with 1996-97. Huh? Going for it anyway. If it flings out an OX sensor engine light, won't be any worse than what the cooked one has been doing for 4 years - just reset and cancel with OBDII reader. At least it will not knock out the Cruise Control as it does on the 2006 XT.
Eventually the rear main cat will be replaced with a readily available easy fit Magnaflow.
First we're gonna try the 3" dia one for a sure fit under shields and because hoity-toity Big Owen Sound Cobble Beach Concours d'Elegance Car Show in 3 days to which I would like to arrive in a quiet SVX

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Crossed two more off the to-do list. Both front axles replaced with OEM units because of split boots. Was more economical to buy the entire units and tomorrow will return the old to the dealer for the core refund.
Have been driving...er...strong-arming the 97 around for 5 months with power steering leak; stopped holding any fluid at all 3 months ago. Photo-ed the source even after new pipes were put on. My main mechanic Chris was able to locate & tighten the offending junction with the axles out. No damage apparently to the pump running dry a few months. O-ring from Gwynethh did the trick.
What a difference. Duh :-).

First shout-out for new or pre-owned pre-cats:
...I have a cracked driver side pre-cat leaking sputtering exhaust note. It can only get worse and Chris doesn't want to mess with them now cause they'll likely fall to pieces. Heat shields are fine. After checking with his sources the only replacements Chris can locate are common cylindrical substitute precat resonators that would protrude down 2" into ground clearance, without shields.
I have searched the forums far and wide...and will continue until I get the definitive answer.
Dealership quote for OEM is $1400 smackeroons!!! for the left one only.
What are we replacing the three cats with now in 2015? Or do I beg for someone to sell me a pair off a salvage? Or does someone have an orphaned pair on a garage shelf gathering dust?
I sure do wanna keep him as originally engineered. Passed the Drive-Clean back in March no problem. Only need one for the left side but a pair would be best. Back 3rd cat is fine and un-clogged.
Please advise if you can, guys & gals. Thanks
Dave