On a 1989 Silverado 4x4 how do you fix the plug on catalytic converter?

On the old converters that have the plug in the bottom, when the plug comes out, the pellets of converter material fall out too. This "pelletized" converter is very heavy and is an archaic emissions device. You could put the plug back in and weld it so it doesn't leak, but this will fail an emissions inspection in most states, especially California. The better choice is to replace the entire converter and upgrade to a high flow "honeycomb" style. This is emissions legal and will actually increase fuel mileage by saving weight and lessening backpressure in the exhaust