99 Tacoma / High end power loss

Guys...I missed y'all...seriously...I haven't written in a while, but here goes:

She's my baby...Mobil 1 synthetic every 3k RELIGIOUSLY!!!

I do all my maintenance except the major services.

Here's my issue:

My beloved old girl is loosing power under load. Now I know the venerable 4 cylinder ain't no hoss, but she struggles up the hills around here these days. Hills I use to take easily in 3rd gear now require downshifting to 2nd and 5th gear is awful.

She's still strong as an ox at low RPM with great torque.

I'm going to check my PCV today. But I'm thinking it may be my catalytic converter. So here are my questions:

1. Does everyone concur or do you have any other suggestions?

1. I know the 02 sensor is behind the coverter. I've heard coring the coverter out does not work on the newer tacomas. Anyone have any experience with this. (I cored both out on my 91 landcruiser and got very good results)(p.s. No emmisions checks here)

2. Is there an after market, free-flowing converter available that will work with the 02 sensor and computer yet give better flow?

1. If i'm not mistaken, cannot the converter be changed with a ratchet? It is not welded in is it?

Thanks in advance for the assistance.

Also, please post your replies as well as e-mailing me at:

snipped-for-privacy@us.army.mil

Walt Mattil Birmingham, Alabama