Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General General Does one's engine ID match the VIN?

This is not another post about trouble code P0420, I promise. I spent two hours last night reading everything I could about that code -- cat replacement, cat gutting, ways to override MIL, etc. My question, though, is related. I recently pulled this code on my OBD-II analyzer. When I had my original engine, all the cats were replaced under recall when this same code was pulled. Now, however, I have a used engine installed thanks to burning up my original engine when the water pump went. My question: I would love to go back to the dealership and say, "I already had the cats replaced under recall and now it's looking like one or more of them is dying." Will the dealer be able to tell that the used engine, which is from a 96, is not my original, which was a 97? I feel "OK" about trying this approach because whoever owned the 96 engine with the cats that are potentially failing now would have qualified for the cat recall in the first place. Or am I risking the dealer "catching me" trying to fool them? I have the recall repair work receipt. Thanks!

There is probably a sticker on the engine somewhere that has engine build date information. Such stickers are usually ignored unless it is needed to order a replacement engine, so it is not likely that they will realize that there has been an engine replacement.

However, the recall only replaces the cats once. It won't hurt to try, but there is very little chance that the dealer will be able to get Ford to perform the recall again.

Thanks Big Jim. I was hoping you, among some others, would see my post and reply. I read several times your posts on cats. I really appreciate your thoughts so quickly. I didn't stop to think about the recall being for a one-time replacement only. So, Ford isn't required to warranty workmanship or parts for recalls? That hardly seems fair (putting aside for discussion sake my wanting to try to fool the dealer). Well, perhaps I'll give it a try anyway, as you say, it won't hurt to try. I can't stand the thought of having to fork over the big dollars to make this repair. Ouch.