Modifications to the engine have been continuous. Initial problems were thought to be related to the ECU, the computer that controlled the engine. Very soon after the 6.0 liter engine was introduced, customer complaints began to mount. Ford’s response was to "reflash" or upgrade the computer program. The new computer programs helped some but did not cure the problems. As the fleet of trucks with 6.0 liter diesels aged, other problems developed.
The problems next seemed to focus on the fuel injectors and the injector controller harness. Although it did not happen to all engines, stories of an engine that had the replacement of 8 or more injectors began to circulate. And different websites began to discuss the problems of the Ford Diesel trucks. See this article which appeared shortly after the 6 liter diesel was introduced: http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2003/08/16/166965.html. Or visit this forum which discusses the engine: http://www.superdutydiesel.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=10&order=desc.
Other common problems seem to be an inadequate fuel filtration system that registers an inordinately high number of problems with water in the fuel line. While water in diesel fuel should be avoided, the presence of water in the fuel lines is rather common. In fact, most users of diesel engines are familiar with regularly checking and occasionally emptying a small canister where the water in the fuel line is designed to be separated, collected and emptied before it is sent to the engine. This traditional design feature seems to be missing on the Ford 6.0 liter diesel engines.
Other areas of concern are the fuel and oil pumps, both of which are critical and expensive parts. Their failure can lead to even more expensive repairs or complete engine failure.
As an attorney I have represented more than a dozen 6.0 liter diesel engine owners in complaints and lawsuits with Ford Motor Company. I have informally consulted with at least two dozen more.
These problems do not happen to every owner of one of these vehicles. If the problem were that pervasive the sale of these popular trucks would have dwindled to almost nothing in the last two years. But this market segment is a difficult one to fill, particularly with a one-size fits all engine. In the F250 range is the leather appointed King Ranch edition that is truly a Cowboy Cadillac. At the F550 end of the market is a true work truck that should pull a heavy load for extended mileage. Ford warranties these engines for 5 years or 100,000 miles. The expected life of a quality diesel engine with proper maintenance and use should be at least 250,000 miles. And most diesels should last even longer with a life of 500,000 miles an achievable goal.
Based upon the limited scope of my experience the 6.0 liter engine first shows signs of these problems between 40,000 and 80,000 miles. It also seems that if a problem with the engine develops it is either cured at the first service appointment or not at all.
It also seems that the problem is more pronounced for those owners who are using the trucks for work. Commercial transport companies seem to have the most problems followed by fleet owners who use the trucks for service or delivery businesses. Other problems are common for heavy farm use or those who pull a large RV.
If you are having problems with one of these trucks, call me to discuss it. Or fill out the enclosed questionnaire HERE.
FORD 6 LITER NEWS
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Power Stroke woes anger buyers, drive up warranty costs By Richard Truett Automotive News / December 12, 2005
James and Penny Schrader have bought Fords faithfully for 30 years. But persistent problems with the Power Stroke diesel engine in their 2004 F-250 pickup have unraveled three decades of brand loyalty. The Schraders, both 63, put a second mortgage on their home in Linden, Mich., to buy the $45,000 truck. Now they say they'll probably never buy another Ford. For the rest of the story see http://www.autosafety.org/article.php?did=1195&scid=37.
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Production of 2008 Super Duty Begins
LOUISVILLE, Ky., Dec. 18, 2006 - Ford Motor Company today begins production of a new F-Series Super Duty that will be the company's most capable and refined pickup ever when it goes on sale early in the new year.
The new Super Duty - which represents 40 percent of Ford's annual F-Series volume - features the cleanest and quietest Power Stroke® Diesel engine ever, a new exterior and interior design, as well as such innovations as an industry-first TailGate Step™ that allows easy access to the pickup bed.
For more information see http://www.ford-trucks.com/news/idx/0/307/article/Production_of_2008_Super_Duty_Begins.html
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