i thought 01's had cats? wasnt it in 01.5 when they came out with HO and they were exempt from emissions? IDK
and no, the new retarded diesels such as the 6.7l, 6.4L powerjoke, and the LMNOP duarmax have the DPF to meet what was then 2010 emissions standards.
I'm with JB, fix the front axle and drive it. but please put an aftermarket lift pump on it, or i get to laugh when your stuck on the side of the road.