Good ideas to discourage catalytic converter theft?

[Eljay]

So I went out to run the engine for 20 minutes, as I do every Sunday we're not traveling, only to find that someone had gone under and cut out (stolen) the catalytic converter from under the drivers side of our 2018 Freedom Elite 22FE. We were doubly disappointed because this was just a few days before a much anticipated road trip, and there was no one who could help us fix it fast enough.

My question: I hate to spend nearly 2 grand and lost time using the RV, only to have the thief return. Does anyone have any clever but affordable ways to help thwart this type of theft?

[Bob Denman]

Sorry to see that it ruined plans for your trip.
How about some motion sensing security cameras?

Either that: or a mean dog on a very long chain...

[EA37TS]

Sounds like the coach was stored in an un-secure storage lot.

The cost of a more secure storage lot may be cheaper than replacing catalytic converters. Consider finding one that has a night watchman or roving security guard.

[16ACE27]

To answer your question: Uhaul and other rental places make/weld a cage of 1/2" rebar around the catalytic converters. It won't stop a determined thief but it makes your vehicle less appetizing than other vehicles.

[rynosback]

Was this when it was in storage? If so, I would find a different place to store it.
So sorry to hear that they stole it.

[The_Breeze]

So far, only lost my bumper end caps to thieves. Next time they get secured with screws.

[lwmcguire]

Converter thefts have been an ongoing issue in the Springfield MO issue a couple years

Vehicles on parking lots have been the primary target but they have cut locks and entered secured lots as well

One theif was eliminated when his jack gave out but his backup took over and the thefts continued

One recent theft occurred here in Branson at the Branson landing parking lot. Previously thefts had primarily been in the greater Springfield area which is a known high crime area

Cargo type trailer thefts havincreaded significantly in the past year so again lock of some tyto slow them down and best to park in a secured area

A high clearance vehicle that they can slide under without jacks is high risk

If you're parking on any lot without security you are at risk
A "Professional" thief has a good battery cut off tool so the rebar helps to slow them down

We had a rash of mail box thefts recently however when the lady theft was caught the DA didn't prosecute due to only one victim willing to press charges

Same deal on the converter thefts so it will continue