Milano oil change, and carparts.com

[Peter Barrett <pbarrett@domain.elided>]

Hey all.  I just completed an oil change on my '87 Gold Milano, and I
think I've found a solution to getting the oil filter unscrewed without
burning your hands.  I used an old electrical extension cord to tie
around the filter after I'd cleaned the filter and the cord.  Pulling it
from the side nearest the AC compressor loosened it, and pulling it from
the other end tightened it.  Certainly a hell of a lot faster than
anything else I've used before.  Am I smart, or is this already in a FAQ
somewhere?  :)

Exhaust repairs are coming up (inspection due in jan) and while idilly
browsing www.carparts.com, I looked up exhaust parts for the Milano. 
They say that they have "WALKER MFG CO Description : CATALYTIC
CNVTR-UNIV ,# per car : 1,Year : 87-89,Notes : Exc CA Part number
:15123" for $59.63.  I'm assuming that this is a universal fit cat, and
won't fit a Milano without major work.  But hey, miracles happen.
Anybody used/seen one of these?  Any other aftermarket alternatives to
IAP's $450 cats?

Thanks!

Peter

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