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[dikkstarr]

Originally Posted by bismic

It can't be a design flaw when there are stock trucks w/ 200k + miles and no issues. If it can be done reliably with some, then it is not a design issue. It may be a parts quality issue or operator error, or poor maintenance, or inconsistent assembly, or other things, but the design works.

The EGR cooler is not a problem except when cooling is compromised - either from a plugged oil cooler (solids in coolant), or from a stuck turbo or tuner and excessive EGT's, or from poor coolant flow or condition, etc. All issues can be detected early - before losing the EGR cooler.

Head gasket issues are from high cylinder pressure, or excessive heat, or head defects, or hydrolocking - almost all (except bad heads and poor assembly quality - which was primarily the early year models) of which can be detected or controlled before head gaskets are lifted.

EGR valve problems are caused by poor combustion. The informed owner can monitor and avoid most of the issues that contribute to poor combustion.

Is it right that we have to do all this??? ... probably not, but each 6.0L owner has to decide whether or not he wants to be watchful and proactive or be a victim.

Also - degaus is what you do to a computer monitor. The coolant overflow reservoir is a degas bottle.

Edit - learn all these things and you can almost steal a 6.0L from someone that has become paranoid. Then invets the monet for reliability "insurance" and you have a great truck at a reasonable cost. You just have to make sure you do not buy one from someone that abused it and then hides it. The other helpful trait in a 6.0L owner is to know how to troubleshoot problems himself. Many dealership mechanics are not very good at this. These forums are a tremendous asset to the 6.0L owner.

What about the normal things that "go bad" on these like FICM and various sensors that no amount of "insurance" can protect you from?

If we somehow swapped trucks when we bought ours, I would have the "not broken yet 6.0", and you would be "paranoid." Wouldnt that change your tune and be fun?