It is absolutely not legal to have one CAT on a dual exhaust system, unless
the truck was designed to have both exhaust pipes coming out of the headers
to join before the catalytic converter. But if it's like you've mentioned
and your friend noticed a CAT only on one side, then obviously this Chevy is
missing the second CAT on the second bank (or first bank depending on which
side it's on).
Ok first thing first... Don't worry about the smog station who may have
illegally smogged this truck yet, more then likely they will be claiming the
modification occurred after they smogged and returned the vehicle to the
dealership. The thing to do know is contact the California DMV
investigations office. Call (800) 777-0133, ask the operator to speak with
the an investigator. Explain your situation. They will more then likely ask
you to bring in your Chevrolet Silverado for an inspection and then visit
the dealership themselves. One thing to note, they are not there to get your
money back. They will be conducting this investigation solely to find
violation/s the dealership may have committed. For reimbursement you will
either need to sue the seller in court, or have them agree to a refund.
Now that you've been armed with some information I'd visit the dealership,
explain you plan on bringing this matter to the DMV's investigations
division, and ask for a full and immediate refund. Any smart used car
dealership should accept your offer.
As for the frame damage, unless the dealer said in writing no damage exists,
or the damage renders the vehicle unsafe (to be driven or sold), there is
not much recourse there; although we are not lawyers and can only really
recommend you contact a lemon law attorney or the like. Good luck.
