This will be a series of 4 or 5 posts that list common problems w/ the 6.0's and will then list some tips that MANY GRACIOUS and KNOWLEDGEABLE people here have contributed over the past few years. For the most part, I have just been a scribe, but it has involved quite a bit of research. Some tips are controversial as to whether or not they make a SIGNIFICANT improvement, but the advice is all good I believe.
Much is common sense and known to most folks, but I tried to get as much all in one place as possible.
I encourage feedback and discussion, but want to keep it positive in an effort for alll new 6.0 owners to have the best chance for success.
Please wait till the last one is posted (I will label it as the "LAST"), and then let the discussion fly!!!
Common problems discussed in upcoming posts:
1. EGR systems
2. Turbos sticking
3. Injectors
4. Head gaskets
5. Miscellaneous
__________________ Mark
06 F250 CC SB ESOF FX4 Lariat 3.73LS 275/65R20; DieselSite Coolant Filter; High Idle Mod; HFCM Plug; Zoodad/Air Fury grill; Accufab Elbow; RACCCV6000 filter; JimmiJammers; Ravelco; SynchroMax in Transfer Case; Fumoto Valve; Harpooned fuel tank; Line-X; CPOhighway Products tool box; tracrac; Fox Weatherboots; Wet Okole Seat Covers; Stanadyne Performance & B2 for lubricity; PIE adapter (thanks Sarge); PIAA 24" wiper blades; updated EGR valve; BriteBox; Re-flashed; Fuel Pressure gauge; DashDaq on deck
Get the most recent flash (it eliminates EGR operation at extended idle)
Use good quality fuel and occaisionally "drive it like you stole it"
Minimize extended idling - especially at rpm's under 1200.
Synthetic oil and fuel additives may help prevent soot which can deposit on your turbo (exhaust side).
Stay with your stock Donaldson air filter setup. No need for more unless heavily modded (500hp). Many (most?) after market filters do not filter as well as the stock system.
Use a synthetic 5W40 oil, change at 7500 miles - high temperature resistance.
After towing or running hard, idle for 5 minutes or so. Best to idle until POST-turbo EGT drops to 400.
Keep your EGR functioning OR delete it (do it properly by blocking off flow entirely to EGR valve and cooler). Some 2005 and up vehicles will throw a code that can only be cleared w/ a tuner w/ disconnected EGR valve.
Change fuel filter at 10,000 miles, use OEM style filters
Good quality fuel - purchase at high volume stations
After filter change, remove air before starting: 3 cycles of (ignition on for 3 sec, ignition off for 15 sec). Then ignition off for 3 seconds and START.
Find a good additive for lubricity and in event of getting bad fuel (w/ water, low cetane, additives not added, etc).
According to the manual - use an additive when suspect fuel quality problems : non alcohol, water demulsifier
Do not run your tank empty (below 45 psig fuel pressure ruins injectors)
Install a fuel pressure gauge with an alarm point you can set. Stop if it drops below 45 psig
Biodiesel is a great lubricity additive, just remember it can gel. Use an antigel additive, especially in winter
Mods -- ITP Return Regulated Fuel System (equal pressure to all injectors), FASS System - pressure control, air removal
Sensors, Miscellanous, things that have a failure history (and some upgrade suggestions when they fail)
HPOP - International makes a STC fitting "delete": http://www.forddoctorsdts.com/articles/article-07-08.php
International Part Number is 1879930c91 Note HPOP is driven by the camshaft, must remove engine (or lift cab) and remove heads.
IPR - Valve installed on top of the HPOP.The solenoid and connector are on top of the HPOP cover plate (behind and to the left of the oil filter).
ICP (has had pig tail and connector failures). Failure will cause truck not to run, or SURGING.Regulator and connector are center of engine (top of the block), on the HPOP cover plate (between the heads).
Injector inlet O-ring leaks
PCM (has has wire chafing and plug issues) - drivers side fender behind the battery.
FICM (has had wire chafing and plug issues) - drivers side valve cover
EBP (or EP) - Drivers side of engine beside the oil dipstick where it makes its bend towards horizontal. Note:- 03-04 EBP was disabled in the programing
VGT Actuator - Clean (carb. Cleaner ONLY) or replace. VGT actuator will cost around $250.Located beside (drivers side) the fuel filter in the engine well.
5. Miscellaneous (2 of 2) - THIS IS THE LAST ONE I HAVE - please add to it!!
Injectors - Upgrade OR International has released a replacement injector that addresses that issue. They are selling them below $100 each from International.
man thats awsome mark! One little thing on post 5, 1 of 2 where you mention the ebp you might want to add a side note to that saying the 03-04 were disabled in the programing. Very nice job though!
4. Head Gaskets (weak in this area - all suggestions welcome)
Minimize Potential for Head Gasket Problems:
Keep turbo system clean and healthy
Install gauges and alarm at 28 - 30 psi boost (if not running a tuner)
Properly programmed custom tuner can help keep cylinder pressures down and improve reliability in head gaskets.
Need to let it coolant temp and/or oil temp to get to operating temp before you start to rag on the truck otherwise you run the risk of stretching the headbolts.
man thats awsome mark! One little thing on post 5, 1 of 2 where you mention the ebp you might want to add a side note to that saying the 03-04 were disabled in the programing. Very nice job though!
Below is a previous post w/ a TON of good information (some more of my research and more from others). I wanted to include the link to this thread so that new 6.0L owners could have all of the collective information contained (OR linked) in this one thread. Be prepared to spend some "quality time" w/ all the links.
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TC P0046 (post 10)
