Table of Contents
The 7.3 ford diesel is a legendary engine known for its power, reliability, and longevity. If you're looking for a powerful and capable pickup truck, then a Ford with a 7.3 diesel engine is a great option. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the 7.3 Ford diesel, including its history, performance, and reliability. We'll also provide some tips on how to find a used 7.3 Ford diesel truck for sale. So, whether you're a seasoned Ford enthusiast or you're just starting to learn about these iconic trucks, read on to learn more about the 7.3 Ford diesel.

The Unstoppable 3 Ford Diesel: Unmatched Power and Reliability
I. 3 Ford Diesel: A Comprehensive Overview
Environmental Impact
Diesels emit nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter, and hydrocarbons. Nitrogen oxides can combine with other chemicals in the atmosphere to form smog and acid rain while particulate matter can cause respiratory problems. Hydrocarbon emissions can contribute to ozone formation. Diesel engines also produce carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. However, diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines and can emit less carbon dioxide per unit of energy consumed.
- Ford F-250 Super Duty
- Ford F-350 Super Duty
- Ford F-450 Super Duty
- Ford F-550 Super Duty
Fuel Efficiency
Diesel engines are more efficient than gasoline engines, which means they can travel more miles per gallon of fuel. This is because diesel fuel has a higher energy density than gasoline. Additionally, diesel engines use a different combustion process than gasoline engines, which results in better fuel efficiency.
Model | Fuel Efficiency (mpg) |
---|---|
Ford F-250 Super Duty | 18 city / 24 highway |
Ford F-350 Super Duty | 17 city / 23 highway |
Ford F-450 Super Duty | 16 city / 21 highway |
Ford F-550 Super Duty | 15 city / 19 highway |
Power and Torque
Diesel engines produce more power and torque than gasoline engines of similar size. This is because diesel fuel has a higher energy content than gasoline and diesel engines can use a higher compression ratio. The higher power and torque of diesel engines make them better suited for towing and hauling heavy loads.
Diesel engines are a good choice for drivers who need a powerful and efficient vehicle. However, diesel fuel prices can be higher than gasoline prices and diesel engines can be more expensive to maintain. If you are considering buying a diesel-powered vehicle, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
If you are looking for a diesel-powered truck that can handle heavy-duty tasks such as towing or hauling, the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine is a great option. This engine is available in a variety of Ford trucks, including the F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty models.
II. 3 Ford Diesel Engine Specifications and Features
The 7.3L Power Stroke is a diesel engine that was produced by Ford Motor Company from 1994 to 2003. It is a V8 engine with a displacement of 7.3 liters (445 cu in). The 7.3L Power Stroke was used in a variety of Ford vehicles, including the F-Series Super Duty trucks, the E-Series vans, and the Excursion SUV. Read more about Ford 7.3 Gas Specs
The 7.3L Power Stroke is known for its reliability and durability. It is also relatively fuel-efficient for a diesel engine. However, the 7.3L Power Stroke is not without its problems. Some common problems include injector failure, turbocharger failure, and head gasket failure. Read more about Ford 7.3 Gas MPG
Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque |
---|---|---|---|
7.3L Power Stroke | 7.3 liters (445 cu in) | 275 hp (205 kW) | 525 lb-ft (712 N·m) |
- The 7.3L Power Stroke is a V8 engine.
- The 7.3L Power Stroke has a displacement of 7.3 liters (445 cu in).
- The 7.3L Power Stroke produces 275 hp (205 kW) and 525 lb-ft (712 N·m) of torque.
Fuel Economy
The 7.3L Power Stroke is relatively fuel-efficient for a diesel engine. It gets an average of 15-18 mpg in the city and 18-22 mpg on the highway. Read more about Ford 7.3 Diesel For Sale
Reliability
The 7.3L Power Stroke is known for its reliability and durability. It is not uncommon for these engines to last over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Read more about Ford 7.3 Gas
Common Problems
Some common problems with the 7.3L Power Stroke include:
- Injector failure
- Turbocharger failure
- Head gasket failure
III. 3 Ford Diesel Performance and Capabilities
The 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine was a popular choice for Ford trucks from 1994 to 2003. It was known for its reliability, power, and torque. The 7.3L Power Stroke was available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions. The naturally aspirated version produced 215 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged version produced 275 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque. The 7.3L Power Stroke was mated to a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.
The 7.3L Power Stroke was used in a variety of Ford trucks, including the F-250, F-350, and F-450. It was also used in the Ford Excursion SUV. The 7.3L Power Stroke was a popular choice for heavy-duty towing and hauling applications. It was also a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts.
Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
---|---|---|
7.3L Power Stroke (naturally aspirated) | 215 | 425 lb-ft |
7.3L Power Stroke (turbocharged) | 275 | 525 lb-ft |
The 7.3L Power Stroke was a reliable and powerful engine. It was a popular choice for Ford trucks for many years. However, it was eventually replaced by the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel engine in 2003.
- The 7.3L Power Stroke was a popular choice for Ford trucks from 1994 to 2003.
- It was known for its reliability, power, and torque.
- The 7.3L Power Stroke was available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions.
- The 7.3L Power Stroke was used in a variety of Ford trucks, including the F-250, F-350, and F-450.
- The 7.3L Power Stroke was a popular choice for heavy-duty towing and hauling applications.

3 Ford Diesel Performance and Capabilities
IV. 3 Ford Diesel Reliability and Maintenance
Ford's 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine is widely regarded as one of the most reliable and durable diesel engines ever produced. It is known for its longevity, with many engines lasting over 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. The 7.3L Power Stroke is also relatively easy to maintain, making it a popular choice for DIYers.
However, like all engines, the 7.3L Power Stroke can experience problems. Some of the most common issues include: 7.3 Gas Specs
- Regular oil changes using high-quality oil and a new filter
- Regular coolant flushes and replacements
- Regular air filter cleaning or replacement
- Lubrication of all moving parts
- Regular fuel filter replacement
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can help extend the life of your 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine and keep it running smoothly for many years to come.
Issue | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
Engine overheating | Coolant leak, clogged radiator, or failed water pump | Repair or replace the coolant leak, clean or replace the radiator, or replace the water pump |
Loss of power | Clogged fuel filter, dirty injectors, or turbocharger problems | Replace the fuel filter, clean or replace the injectors, or repair or replace the turbocharger |
Excessive smoke | Worn piston rings, leaking valve seals, or turbocharger problems | Replace the piston rings, valve seals, or turbocharger |

3 Ford Diesel Reliability and Maintenance
V. 3 Ford Diesel Applications and Modifications
Box Delete(s): Light Duty Truck Pickup
- Commercial light, medium, and heavy duty truck are used regularly in commercial settings.
- Examples of businesses that use commercial trucks are construction, landscaping, farming, beverage (beer, soda, water, etc.) delivery, etc.
- Some commercial operations may use a pickup truck that has toolboxes or special equipment built into or added to the vehicle's bed, commonly referred to as a "box delete".
- This "box delete" type of work truck is known as a "utility" truck by Ford and is available on the Ford F250 and F350 Super Duty pickup truck chassis.
Glider Kits and Box Deletes
1979 Ford Bronzo | Ford Bronco For Sale | 1979 Ford F150 |
---|---|---|
1995 Ford F150 | 1996 Ford F150 | |
1978 Ford F150 | 1990 Ford F150 |
A glider kit is a new semi-truck, or a stripped down new semi-truck chassis, that does not have an engine or transmission installed.
There are many independent engine and transmission manufacturers that build new and rebuilt powertrain, either for sale to retail customers or commercial truck equipment repair shops.
Companies that buy and use large amounts of commercial semi-trucks may use glider kits as a way to avoid new truck emissions regulations without having to purchase and operate older used commercial trucks.
When emissions laws for semi-trucks change, those companies may then repower the glider kits with newer engines and transmissions.
Vans, buses, and other vehicles can also be purchased in a glider kit configuration.