Hi!  I have a 1993 240 wagon that's in overall great condition.  I've
recently had it fully checked, had the AC refreshed (it's now so cold
I want to spend the summer there), all new tires put on, and some
front thingy replaced -- tie rod?  Something like that.  New brakes
are looming in the near future, which will probably cost around
$300-400.  Anyway, about a week or two ago it started sounding a
little throaty, if you  know what I mean.  This has happened
previously and it turned out just to be a loose hose.  I was hoping
for the same thing this time. No such luck!  I was told that the
flange on the catalytic converter had rusted, and that I can't replace
just the flange, but will have to replace the entire converter -- at a
cost of around $900 (that's including labor).  Ouch!  I asked if there
was a cheaper option and was told that there are some garages that
might agree to weld the converter to the exhaust system, but then, if
something goes wrong with one, everything would have to be replaced.

So, what do you all think?  Are there better options that are also
cheaper?  I do know that my mechanic tends to be expensive (though
they're also extremely good) so I don't mind getting some other
quotes.  Opinions?

Thanks much,
Patricia