The 7.3L PowerStroke Turbodiesel Engine, also known among the diesel community just as the "7.3" was the engine designed by Ford to replace their older 7.3L IDI starting in 1994. Starting with the 9th generation of Ford pickups, this turbocharged diesel engine created 210 HP and 425 lb-ft of torque. The power and durability of this engine allowed Ford to become the industry leader for medium to heavy duty trucking at the time. The 7.3 became highly sought after over time by enthusiasts both for its incredible ease of repair and maintenance, and also for the industries tendency to overbuild engines durability wise. The 7.3 (much like the rival 12 Valve Cummins) came off the production line massively under-powered, as the stock internals were found out to be much stronger then they were initially rated for.
Common Engine Issues and Resolutions
Despite being known by Ford enthusiasts as the best PowerStroke Ford ever built, there are some very common problems with this engine that most people will have to deal with in this engines lifetime.
Camshaft position sensor: This sensor commonly fails which causes a no-start condition and can also shut down the engine while driving, which can be dangerous.
Fuel Bowl: The filter housing for the fuel bowl can crack in the aluminum housing, causing a fuel leak along with shorting out the healing element.
Turbocharger: The pipes connecting the turbo to the intake commonly leak from multiple areas. This will cause the engine to lose power and will increase the temperature of the exhaust.
Common Data across all Years
Years:
1994-2003
Bore x Stroke:
4.11" x 4.18"
Head Material:
Cast iron
Block Material:
Cast iron
Compression Ratio:
17.5 : 1
Firing Order:
1-2-7-3-4-5-6-8
Style of Injection:
HEUI Direct Injection
Turbocharger:
Wastegated single Garrett TP38 Turbocharger (1994-1997) Wastegated, Intercooled single Garrett TP38 Turbocharger (1998-2003)