So, I just got my f150 and have been browsing this forum since I have had it.

My knowledge of vehicles is not great, so I need some help

I had a check engine show up, then it went away for about two weeks and it just returned about a day or two. This made me curious so I went and got a free scan at auto value. The result was catalytic converter. Now, I talked to a buddy and he said it is for emissions control. I live in Alberta Canada, and there are no emissions laws here. So what should I do? Will it be harmful to keep it like it is?
The motor only has 50,000 km while the body has 243,000 km. Any info will help.

 

Take it to an exhaust shop and have it checked.

 

What were the exact numerical codes?

 

p0420

 

There was only the one code

 

I have chosen to keep driving my truck after the P0430 (drivers side cat) started coming up...been doing it for almost 3 years...the code comes up about every 300-1000 miles...but I live in California, the worlds most strict emissions regulations. Here they have banned most every aftermarket Catalytic Converters, so My choice is OEM Ford for $ 2400. Heck, my truck even passed smog testing in between check engine lights...

So, drive it in my opinion...

 

Go to a muffler shop and get the cats tested for blockage and restrictions. If they are okay, you don't have to worry. If they are restricted, you should do something about it.

P0420 is a code for passenger side "low efficiency".

 

FWIW, the cat may be fine. Those same codes will sometimes come up when your downstream O2 sensor is going bad. I would replace that first before worrying about the cats.

 

You should still get it checked to make sure the cat is not plugged. The backpressure can cause problems if it is.

 

As glc states, I highly recommend getting it checked too. All muffler shops can do the test. It's quick, easy, painless, not to mention cheap.

If you run with a plugged/restricted converter you might encounter these issues down the road:

Engine failure
Manifold leaks or cracks from heat
Burnt valves
Scoring of cylinder walls

Simply put: Why take the chance?

Since you live in Canada, either remove them and get a GOOD o2 emulator kit or replace them with Magnaflow or OEM equivalent converters.

 

I also wouldn't rule out getting your engine looked over for a running rich condition. Just for good measure. Rich condition will fry a cat, but your situation sounds more like wear & tear, a simple cat on its way out from years/miles of duty.