Was there a turbo change on the late model 7.3 motors? My brother is looking at a 2003 7.3 F550 and they are saying it has had 2 turbo failures in less than 100,000 miles.

The current owner is telling him it uses a turbo that is similar to the 6.0 motor and not like the 99-02 models.

Does anyone have any info on differences with these late model motors?

Thanks!

 

nope, same turbo unless someone changed the turbo itself of installed a ported housing and/or bigger exhaust housing. Can you post pic of turbo?

 

This was a construction truck. Would environmental effects impact Turbo? He said the past one failed with oil leaking out of them.

 

Frequently getting run hard and shut down hot would have a negative effect on the turbo.

 

Miles arent a great indicator with many construction applications, its total hours more so. Some of them run 8 hours in a day, but dont go 20 miles, lots of idle time that isnt recorded.

 

That is likely true on the 8 hours of running per day. At idle is the turbo not getting the proper lubrication? Or how does this work against the turbo life?

Thanks for all the info this is very helpful!

 

At idle the turbo shaft is still spinning on the journal bearings. It's just additional wear like more miles would be.

 

Just a thought, but is the current owner sure it's actually a 7.3?

Stewart

 

It should be getting lubricated just fine at idle. Just all those hours add up, there are only X number of rotations any mechanical part can make before it fails.

Another possibility is if it has the factory air box, they are prone to being broken or not sealed up properly, the turbos may be getting dusted and worn from that as well, especially in a very dusty environment as comes with construction typically.

 

^^^ What he said. I would look at the intake and compressor wheel for signs of dusting. I just upgraded from my stock Turbo and it was going strong at 155K.

 

X3 for checking air box and compressor wheel. My '03 has 150K on it and no turbo issues.

 

According to what OP posted, this is a late model 2003, Late models were 6.0. If you are not familiar with what they look like, as has been suggested, post a picture. That way there will be no doubt. 220,000 plus and still on original with no problems.

 

One word.... YES.

As mentioned, bad environment conditions such as dust and dirt and a leaky/cracked air filter box can ruin a turbo. Plus being a construction fleet vehicle, it probably wasn't grandma driven.

 

this is exactly what i was thinking, theres no mistaking a 6.0 turbo and our turbo, in 03 they started making 6.0s so if its "similar" to a 6.0 turbo it might be a 6.0 engine

 

The guy sold it before he could get back to him. Sorry I couldn't get more details or pictures. Sounds like the turbo was leaking oil again and it was on its 3 transmission so I think it had a tough life. Probably best he didn't get it.

Thanks!