P0420 code and cheap solution

About a year ago, I noticed some increased exhaust noise during acceleration. When I investigated, I found my original catalytic converter was totally rotted out and leaking. I replaced the cat with this one, http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=268554&cc=1303322&jnid=436&jpid=0. About 2 weeks ago, my SES light came on. When I scanned for trouble codes, I found code P0420, Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1). This code generally means the cat needs to be replaced. I cleared the code, but the light came back on a day later. Called my Buick club director and he suggested a simple solution. He told me to purchase an O2 sensor extension and that would take care of the trouble code. I located one on Amazon and purchased it. Installation was easy, remove the rear O2 sensor and just install the extension and O2 sensor. Cleared the code, and it hasn't returned. Been 2 weeks now. This is the extension I used,

http://www.amazon.com/O2-Sensor-Spacer-Adapter-Extender/dp/B00CZFCPQU/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1429445901&sr=8-6&keywords=o2+sensor+extension

Curiously enough, if you read the reviews, several people comment on using the extension for the same purpose. I guess it works by reducing the sample that the sensor sees. Certainly cheaper than buying an O2 simulator.

So I guess this extension works like a Spark Plug Anti-fouler. Thanks for the tip. Didn't know they made these for O2 sensors.

Rickw wrote:

So I guess this extension works like a Spark Plug Anti-fouler. Thanks for the tip. Didn't know they made these for O2 sensors.

Yup, looks like one too. The director of my car club was all too familiar with it and suggested it to me right away.

Done this to a few cars....

Sounds like Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's: "My doctor told me to stay away from cigarettes..."