The 7.3 Power Stroke diesel engine made by Ford was one of the most interesting units in its class. It wasn't very efficient or technological, but it was pretty reliable. And that's why it was used in many trucks and other vehicles. A lot of these engines are still in use, and we know that the Power Stroke unit may have some minor issues.
Key features and my opinion about the engine
- Production years:1994-2003
- Average lifespan of 7.3 Power Stroke:380,000-450,000 miles
- Fuel supply type:direct injection
- Power range:250-275 hp
- Fuel efficiency:bad
- Engine block material:cast iron
- Engine reliability score:high
- The most common problems:electronics problems, wiring issues, pretty bad fuel economy.
Some of the most common oil leaks in a 7.3 Power Stroke
The most common places where you can see the oil leaking are described in hundreds of reviews. We've studied them and categorized the leaking spots so that you could easily deal with them or at least locate them when you see the oil drops under your engine.
Here are the most common leaking spots in the 7.3 Power Stroke diesel engine:
- Oil pump. A leaking pump is not hard to locate. Usually, it leaks heavily because 7.3 Power Stroke uses high-pressure oil pumps. Once it starts leaking, you should immediately repair (replace) it because it may end up sprinkling oil all over the road.
- Oil pan gasket. This is one more very common place for oil leaks in the 7.3 Power Stroke engine. The pan is aluminum. Once it's hit over something, it may lose its shape and the gasket will not save the situation anymore. Sometimes changing the gasket helps, sometimes you will need to replace the pan.
- Turbocharger. Unfortunately, the reliable turbocharger in the 7.3 Power Stroke Ford engine loves leaking oil. Once it starts, you may not notice it. But after some time, the leaks will lead to black smoke from the tailpipe and problems with the turbocharger.
- Valley. The valley is the part between the turbocharger and the HPOP. The valley may leak and it often leaks. It's at the top of the engine and the oil comes down right onto the place where the main seal is situated. So it may seem that the main seal needs replacement. But it's not always true.
- The main seal. Yes, very often, after hitting the 150,000-mile mark which is a young age for this engine, the main seal may say goodbye to you and commit suicide. After that, you will have to spend some money to replace the expensive main seal which is not that easy to do.
- Different small seals and rings. Rubber elements and numerous seals are prone to damage and wear. They can just stop working properly and start leaking oil. It's not very easy to locate the problem sometimes, but you should always track the possible spots of leaking from the upper parts and towards the lower ones.
When you are trying to investigate the spot of oil leaks, you should be careful. As we've already mentioned, a lot of owners of vehicles powered with the 7.3 Power Stroke engine change the main rear seal because the oil is often there. But you need to look at the upper part of the engine first. Both the HPOP and the turbocharger can leak and send some oil there.
How to cope with oil leaks?
First of all, you should know that the oil level in this engine is extremely important. If you don't watch the oil level regularly, you can eventually get into trouble. If oil leaks heavily, you shouldn't drive your vehicle and even start the engine.
The oil pump works under high pressure here, so every leak is potentially dangerous. Be careful with the oil level light - it doesn't always flash when the oil level is extremely low. Because the light flashes when the oil pressure is too low, and it may be too late to save the engine.
Dealing with the leaks is not that hard. You just need to locate the problem, but a needed gasket, O-ring, or any other parts that leak (like an oil pump or a turbocharger) and replace the old malfunctioning part.
Final words
We are sure that you can drive your 7.3 Power Stroke engine for dozens of years and a lot of miles but you have to watch the oil level. Oil leaks are common for these engines because the oil circulates under high pressure.
If you see oil drops under the engine, you should take care of the vehicle and deal with the problem. Otherwise, in a short period of time, a small leak can become a huge problem.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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