2004 Ford F-150 5.4 V8- 114K miles, tune up at 97K.

I noticed my truck was running kind of rough and had a hesitation when I'd give it gas from a stop. I went and had the code read and it was P0420, Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1). I've been trying to read up and see what could cause these problems and there's a laundry list but none of the problems match up with my symptoms.

When I take off from a stop, my truck feels like it's bogging down, like I'm pulling 50K lbs behind me. However, if I "gas it" then it will clear up. It seems to only do it around 1500-2000 rpms. I'm leaning more towards the passenger side cat being toast, but any and all help would be appreciated.

 

Hello, I've only replaced a few of these sensors; an upstream sensor in a 1997 F-150 4.6L being the most recent.

Since your code is relevant to a downstream sensor MAYBE it's economical to replace that sensor (downstream, right) first. Kira

 

It's most likely the O2 sensor or the Cat...but I think your 04 has 4 cats..

 

Alright, don't hate on me, I'm a 3rd gen mechanic and I always tell my customers to try this first before they go dropping big bucks on chasing down the 420.

 

Thanks, I'm always hesitant about adding things to my fuel, no matter what it is, I've also thought about taking it apart and cleaning it too.

 

Check see any exhaust leak or any crack around cat convert area.