All,

I've read multiple threads on my personal issues with my '04 F250 and continue to read on a daily basis; however I'd like to ask anybody that would like to comment on my issues please do so. This is my first diesel and I am learning a lot while reading and believe it or not, this site is helping me cope with these issues as it is minimizing my frustration.

My '04 F250 has been in the shop multiple times for the following problems, most recently 4 days and counting with NO progress made on any of the issues listed below.

1 - Fuel economy. I started out around 14 and it's gone down since....I'm now below 11. They've re-flashed my computer only to make things worse. They said there is a flash that came out on the 19th of Feb that might fix my problems, however FORD decided to eliminate the engine braking feature due to multiple customer complaints and my dealership doesn't want to install that flash as it will de-activate the engine braking.

2 - Transmission. I've got rough shifting, tow haul mode doesn't work properly and I believe this is the cause to my poor fuel economy. They told me yesterday that there is an external module to the transmission that burnt up so they'll have to replace that.

3 - I've got a small oil leak that only leaks when my truck is parked on an incline with the "nose" of the truck on the up-hill side of the incline. They've put dye in the oil but can't find anything. They suggest even though it's an blackish oil residue that it's actually the anti-rust coating that is melting once the engine gets hot. (?)

4 - When I come to a stop light and my heater or defroster is on, I've got a diesel smell coming through the ventilation system. If I turn everything off, then the smell goes away. They can't find any carbon traces therefore there must not be a problem (?).

I look forward to any/all feedback on these issues or anything else you might feel would be beneficial to my situation.

 

Native,

Being here in CO too, I have had some of the same problems with my 03 Excursion. The flash last fall solved most of my power problems, but I still have just OK mileage. I also have the exhaust smell (only happens when the heater or defrost is on), and I'll be taking it to the dealer for that this week.

Has anyone heard if Ford has fixed the altitude problem? I will be notifying the dealer this week to try and fix it again. Even after the third flash mod, when my truck is around 9000ft, it smokes more, and takes forever to get it rolling. I thought maybe the cold was the cause, but a couple weeks ago at Keystone, I was parked in a heated garage all night, and it took literally 15 minutes before I could back out of my space and get going.

Check back, and I'll post feedback after shop work is done.

 

The 12/12 flash update was to correct high altitude issues and one Tow/Haul mode. Have you had the most recent 12/12/03 flash yet?

Also, all diesels operate less efficiently in the cold and #2 diesel with it's low sulfer really stinks in the cold and at high altitudes. Try some diesel winter/anti-gel cetane booster. Add it to the max mxing ratio and fill up. You could have poor winterized fuel... possible gelling... poor quality fuel... or just need a good anti-gel and cetane boost additive.

My mileage in my 03 Excursion 4X4 was as high as 20 when new (prior to October 03 flash) and was as low as 14 in the dead of winter here in Kansas City. Currently, my city mileage is 16mpg and my highway is 17 - 18mpg. The temps have warmed up and this helps.

Hope some or all of this information helps.

Good luck,

 

Jeff,

Thanks for your help. I'll make sure the dealer gives me the new flash.

Richard

 

I also live in Colorado. I had the dec flash done at Phil Long in motor city. I only mention their name because I had no problems with them. Mine went in for some minor maintenance, nothing like what you are experiencing but I know they have a knowledgable diesel techs.
Good Luck