

This is an engine troubleshooting post, not a suspension troubleshooting post. It is not uncommon to need to replace the turbocharger (which is surprisingly simple and inexpensive), a water pump, possibly the fuel pump, and other high-stress or pressurized components. For the 7.3, it’s typically with wiring/electrical components such as sensors and similar items.Īpart from the items mentioned previously, you should anticipate some maintenance as these trucks age and pass the 200k mile mark.

Although catastrophic engine failure is almost unheard of, every engine has its weak points. While I did list a number of issues with the 7.3 above, the majority of these issues are minor and inexpensive to fix. The 7.3 Powerstroke engine has a B50 Life of 350,000 miles, which means that 50% of engines will operate beyond 350k miles without failing. The engine block and internals were vastly over-built and over-engineered for the truck’s power output, resulting in one of the most reliable and trustworthy diesel engines ever produced. When you hear the classic “yeah, my buddy has a diesel with 500k+ miles at his ranch,” it’s a 7.3 Powerstroke, not a 5.9 Cummins. Except for bent push rods (which are uncommon), the majority of these components are sensors and valves that can be easily repaired. While I had to choose seven problems to represent the 7.3, you’ll find that the majority of these issues are extremely simple and inexpensive to resolve.

The 1999 models received a significant power boost, primarily through the addition of a wastegated turbocharger and an intercooler, boosting output from 210hp and 425tq to 275hp and 525tq. It is without a doubt the most reliable Powerstroke ever built, trailing only the 5.9L Cummins engine produced from 2003 to 2006.īetween 19, this monstrous 7.3L diesel engine was produced in two variants before being phased out in mid-2003 due to emissions regulations and improved gas mileage. The 7.3 Powerstroke is frequently dubbed the “Legendary 7.3.” Apart from being the largest diesel engine ever installed in a high-volume, consumer-grade truck, it is widely regarded as the second most reliable diesel engine ever produced.
