Auto Parts: Catalytic converter-can they take out engine?, service engine soon light, oil light

Question
Hi Mike, we experienced a "oil light" that came on & went out on our 1999 Merc Villager and then not more than a mile down the road had it popped on & off again this time with a "service engine soon" light that also did the same thing, and once they are off a "POP" and engine quit. Blew the engine & no readings on idiot lights or gauges.  The 1st engine had sounded fine, no leaks or anything but after asking the mechanic we were told that our 2 month old air cleaner, from vehicle #1,was loaded full of oil & looked like it had never been changed. We got our vehicle back, and its engine sounds great, but 2 days later while on the road no gauges or idiot lights but it slowed down to a crawl and then stopped. Can our cat. convert. be the trouble & does it use any of the lights or gauges to let you know??

Answer
    Your converter could be bad, but they don't always set a code or a light.  It sounds like you have an ECM problem.  Get a pro to scan it for you.  Then make sure you change the air cleaner when you change the oil filter, and do that at least every 7500 miles.