Ford Powerstrokes with a 6.0L engine have one of the worst reputations in the diesel world. Ford has been frequently asked, “Why didn’t you just keep the 7.3L engine?” But really the question is unfair given the circumstances at the time of creation of the 6.0L engine.
After January 1st, 2003, the federal government set tougher diesel emission standards. All the top diesel application manufactures had to restructure and invest a substantial amount of money to abide these new standards. Ford was one to do the same. Some say Ford should of added an exhaust gas recirculation system, a variable geometry turbo, and a high pressure injection system to the 7.3L engine. But others say nay, a clean burning 7.3L engine would have a horsepower disadvantage compared to the GM Duramax and the Dodge Cummins applications at the time. Also with Dodge Cummins Bosch’s latest Common Rail Injection, Ford 7.3L engines were much too loud.
So the 6.0L was created with four goals in mind:
- Meet Emission Standards
- Have More Horsepower than the competition
- Have Better Fuel Economy
- Make a quieter engine
When 2003.5 came to be, the Ford Powerstrokes 6.0L were out on the market. In stock form this was a consumer dream. The 6.0L engine met all emission standards and passed all testing performed during research and development. Obviously stock vehicles have been factory tested, so they are thought to be more reliable, which is mostly true for 6.0L engines. 6.0L engines rarely experience failures when operating at stock power levels. But let’s be honest, why own a Diesel if you can’t MAX IT OUT! This seems to be the area where 6.0L engines are having trouble, because now with aftermarket modifications your now turning more rpm, fueling heavier, and creating more heat and higher cylinder pressures. But Orange County Diesel feels that aftermarket modifications aren’t bad for 6.0L engines, they just have to be the RIGHT aftermarket product!
Here is a list of common problems of the Ford Powerstroke 6.0L 2003.5-2007
- Turbo Failure
- Variable Geometry Turbo Vanes Sticking
- Leaking Oil Under Turbo
- Rough Idle Related to the Fuel Injection Control Module
- Fuel Injection Control Module Calibration(s)
- Fuel Injection Control Module Harness Wear
- Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve Sticking
- Exhaust Gas Recirculation
- Blown Head Gasket Cooler
- Oil Cooler
- Oil Rail Plug(s) Leaking Oil
- Sticking Spool Valve Inside Injector
- Cracked Intercooler Boot
- Coolant Leak
- High Pressure Oil Pump Leaking Oil
Give us a call at 714-848-2170 M-F from 8-5 PST – We will answer your questions regarding the Ford Powerstrokes engine. Ask about Free Shipping!
Live locally? Feel free to stop by our location and meet us! OC DIESEL, INC. is located at 17242 Gothard Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 Suites A and B. We have a full service shop staffed with knowledgeable technicians who are ready to squash any Diesel Repair issues.
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