My 2002 Tribute (Escape) did the exact same thing. Replaced the second converter because the guts from the first plugged it. Now the truck sounds terrible as the front converter is just a shell. The engine light is on because the front converter is essentially not there. Mechanic says its ok to run like that but likely won't pass emission tests. Front converter in Canada is $689.00 just for the part. Likely will mail order part from USA to have it installed, costs much less that way. Frustrated as to why a vehicle needs more than one converter and why they are so expensive (second one was $359.00 Canadian) as I am guessing you are also. Prepare to empty the bank account and good luck. | 
