Mod (Ret.)

Before I toss a new O2 into the truck, I'd have the catalytic conveters checked. They may not only be plugged, they also could be broken inside. Take it to a reputable muffler shop to have them checked. If you can get under the truck (cooled off!), rap on the converters to see if you can hear any rattling, indicating that they are broken.

In either event, 87K is low mileage for either the catalytic converters to fail, and /or the O2 sensor(s). Everything else O.K. with the truck, running wise? If its running well, then the cats are most likely not plugged, but more likely broken. It could be the rearward O2, but I'd get it checked (cats) first before I replace anything.

RicanRaskul

Thank you for all of this great information.... When you say plugged in.....what exactly do you mean by that? Also, the truck runs great.... No problems whatsoever does not stall, hesitate or nothing like that, just the damn light. I have cleared the light 3 times before but it still comes back. I am eventually going to get it fixed but in the mean time is it ok for me to drive the truck locally (50 miles a day, average) with this light on? Will I be damaging the truck anymore than what it is?

Martian

I'd get under that thing every time you're done and look at the cats and make sure they're not glowing red. As long as the upstream O2 sensors are okay, you shouldn't have too much of a problem, but definitely wouldn't let it go longer than you absolutely have to. Keep your radio off and constantly listen for new sounds you hadn't heard before, then track them down if any show up.

RicanRaskul

Ok. Thank you all for your valuable input. Have a good one!

Mod (Ret.)

If the cats are not plugged, you should be alright, but as suggested, get them checked. If they were indeed plugged, the truck would be running poorly, which you are not complaining about. My guess now (and only a guess), is that the cat is broken on that side, or a bad O2 downstream sensor.

RicanRaskul

Hi there again all,

Out of the following image which one would be considered the "Upstream" O2 sensor you guys are suggesting I change out or do I change both?

9F472 or 9G444

Thanks again,

Mod (Ret.)

Upstream O2's will not be the ones reporting a possible faulty cat; it's the downstream, as in 9G444; the downstream are right into the converter and the upstream are screwed into the front side of the cats.

RicanRaskul

Thank you again, I will keep you posted of my findings!

HulluCorn

Please do update us when you can!

RicanRaskul

Just left the Ford dealership, they determined it's a bad Cat. I can get a new OEM cat for around 800. With me doing the work. I decided that I'm the mean time I will simply replace the downstream O2 sensor being that I was able to get an OEM one for 25 bucks....I will clear the check engine light after and see how long it takes for it to come back on. I hope it never returns but I am willing to make a 25 dollar mistake. Your thought?