SSM NUMBER: 4249

Oil filter torque

The torque specification for the 7.3L DIT oil filter has been revised to 27 N-m (20 lb-ft).

SSM NUMBER: 4293

Check clamps and connections at turbo

If you have a report of an exhaust smell in the cab of the 7.3L DIT, check the clamp on the turbo down pipe to turbocharger.  Also check inlet pipes to turbocharger and manifold for loose connections or exhaust leaks.  Tighten as necessary.  Be sure not to position the clamp to create a grounding issue.

SSM NUMBER: 4301

Normal condition - blue smoke on restart after idling

For 7.3L DIT engines, blue smoke on start up following extended idling with the blue smoke disappearing after a short drive at normal operating temperatures is considered normal and no service action is to be performed.  White smoke on cold start up on 7.3L DIT engines is a normal characteristic.  This condition is common to diesel engines and does not call for service action.

SSM NUMBER: 4418

Film of oil/dust normal - if not dripping, do not service

Seepage of oil between the halves of the turbo and the small amount of oil in the intake deposited by the positive crankcase ventilation system are frequently misdiagnosed as oil leaks on the 7.3L DIT engine.  The seal on the turbo allows a very small amount of oil to weep through and this may attract a film of dust.  If the seal is not dripping, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SERVICE IT.

SSM NUMBER: 4774

Install quality fuel and operate at speed to clean up catalytic converter

Investigation of a plugged catalytic converter on a 7.3L DIT engine indicated that a very low grade diesel fuel, probably not intended for highway use, was being used by the fleet.  The concern was resolved by draining the tank, purchasing known quality fuel from a local service station and operating the vehicle at highway speeds for about 15-20 minutes while the plugged condition cleared.  The low power complaint cleared as the converter self-cleaned.

SSM NUMBER: 4808

Check for missing oil filter relief valve

A missing oil filter relief valve in the rear oil cooler header is a possible cause of a start/stall with no oil noted in the reservoir, rough idle, or irregular oil pressure gauge readings.  The three pieces of the valve (spring, fiber washer, steel washer) can fall out of the rear oil cooler header while removing the oil filter due to the lack of enough retaining stake.  If all pieces fall out an are recovered, the proper order to reinstall these pieces is: spring, fiber washer, and steel washer.  Stake them back in place.  The valve is not serviced separately.  If any piece is missing, the rear oil cooler header must be replaced.

SSM NUMBER: 5005

Check for short in Circuit #16 - replace fuel heater

Some vehicles may come in with Fuse #22 (30 amp) being open.  Other symptoms may include stalling, no start, or a "wait to start" lamp that will not come on.  If so, check for short to ground in Circuit #16 from Connector C138 (42-pin) to C188 at the fuel line heater assembly with both connectors disconnected.  If the circuit checks OK, replace the fuel heater element.

SSM NUMBER: 5011

Remove trapped air after repair

The cause of Codes 1211 or 1212 can be internal or external leaks, a faulty IPR, a faulty ICP, injectors, high pressure oil system concerns, low or improper oil, trapped air, loss of oil pump pressure, or PCM or wiring issues.  Make sure trapped air is purged from the high pressure system by running the vehicles hard for 20 minutes after a repair to avoid false codes.  Use 1996 PC/ED symptom flowcharts 3, 10, or 17 and record results of checks on the 11x17 Diagnostic Guide.  Only run pinpoint tests when directed by the symptom flowcharts.

SSM NUMBER: 10389

Aftermarket products may cause severe engine damage

There are various manufacturers offering devices to increase turbocharger boost or otherwise increase the power/torque of the 7.3L DIT engine.  Many owner's past experience with products of this type has been very poor.  Severe powertrain damage may result from use of these aftermarket products, which will not be covered by the Ford warranty.