6.0L Power Stroke Engine and DrivetrainDiscussion of the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel engine and drivetrain in the 2003-Up Super Duties and Excursions. No gas engine discussion allowed except on transmissions and drivetrain that pertain to all models. Please confine discussion of topics in this forum to those items that are specific to the 6.0L Power Stroke engine.
Any insights please . . . . when towing our fifth wheel back from Imperial Sand Dunes (near Yuma, AZ) to Las Vegas there were two or three times where we could smell what was perhaps an antifreeze smell for a short period of time (a minute or two.). Checked levels and it didn't appear to be burning or puking any coolant, and we don't see any leaks. The stock gauges never showed any overheating or even getting hot for that much.
No chip, programmers, etc. on this truck. Just a bigger intake and exhaust -- Volant in and 5" MBRP out and bigger diff cover and tranny pan.
We usually run about 55-60 mph -- smooth and steady. From Vegas to the dunes is pretty much "downhill" for the whole five hour trip; however, coming back there are a few small grades.
Anybody have this happen? Ford mechanics -- should I be concerned? Thanks so much for your help and happy holidays!
Notice any white smoke from the exhaust?
Check around the coolant degas bottle again after it cools off. Look for white residue. It's easier to spot after it dries.
It could be anything from a pinhole hose leak to a leaking EGR cooler.
I'm assuming you haven't worked on the coolant system lately (e.g., coolant flush)?
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2003 F250 XLT CC Long Bed 4x4, 6.0 w/Auto
Well, I did a cursory look and didn't see any white residue. I won't be able to look around more until this weekend.
I didn't notice any white smoke - but wasn't looking either. It doesn't happen around town, just when towing this past two times (heavier trailer than previous.)
Haven't worked on the coolant system, but did recently have the Volant intake and MBRP exhaust installed -- something could have happend then. Oh yeah, the dealer replaced a leaking wire loom (or harness at the injectors or something like that about 5 or 6 weeks ago.)
So, until I dig around further, what would be the pitfalls of not finding the source? IE, if it is a pinhole leak, I just have to deal with the smell when under load and make sure we fill it back up? If it is a leaking EGR cooler, then ???
Any opinions out there?
I'm far from a mechanic or anything and, quite frankly, I don't want to shell out a bunch of $$$ to chase something the techs can't find. I love my truck, but with it being a 5 year old vehichle and out a warranty, I'll take my money and truck and trade it in on something new while it still has a (little) value. There's got to be some good deals on diesel trucks these days.
Personally I would definitely try and isolate the cause due to the fact that either way it needs attention before it gets worse. It will be a lot cheaper to get the EGR cooler and possibly oil cooler replaced than to wait until complete failure and need your head gaskets done also. Trade-in value will not be much if it is not running. 2-cents.
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2004 6.0 liter(stock), 4x4 Dually King Ranch Package. Goose Neck Hitch, Bull Bar, 130 watt off road lights x 2, Vent Visors, Stainless Steel Exhaust Tip, Edge Insight Monitor, E*R Spool Kit, Dieselsite Coolant Filter Kit, GatesHeavy Duty Fleet Runner Serpentine Belt, Tires: Hankook Dynapro AT RF10 LT235/85R16 ROWL M+S. Use PM-22-A Motorcraft Diesel Cetane Booster with every tank. Pullin' 33ft Travel Trailer or 20ft Deck Boat.
PoliceAgent -- I'm out of warranty now (by about 4 weeks) -- can you tell me what the charges where on your service ticket?
The dollar figures will not be on a warranty ticket. I would stick to getting a dealer to do this repair. I would also do some research and find the local dealer in your area that has the most knowledgeable diesel techs. Most independent shops are not a bug fan of working on 6.0s. The ones that do may or may not be equipped to diagnose and repair the engine properly. Good luck.
__________________ 2000 F350 SRW Supercab 7.3 PSD
4" MBRP Exhaust with Donaldson M085171 Muffler,
SCT X3 w/DP-Tuner 60T-80T-80E ,
Transgo Equipped 4R100, Autometer Guages,
Donaldson/Motorcraft Air Induction System,
Ford AIC, Northstar 8.5 Adventurer,
Timbren Overloads, Code L Front Springs,
Bilstein Shocks, BFG Commercial TA Rubber,
Hella 700FF Driving Lights
One quick note.. I was told to drop my over flow level a little.. Now I run it about 1 inch below the mark and I haven't had any problems in the West Texas heat... That is if your head gaskets come up good.. Good luck.
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Mike Strickland
Web Master
BigCountryOff-Road.com
2003 F-450 4x4, 6.0 PSD, 4.30 Gears, Western Hauler, 19.5 Wheels/Tires; EGR Delete, ARP studs, HPOP, bypass fuel system, cold air intake, EGT gage(more to come), SCT tuner
The tech had to go to a funeral so they will not start on my truck until the first of next week. They are replacing the head gasket and the cooler.
As stated above, the price does not print out, but I will find out next week and try to post.
Only another note, I asked about extended warranty I cna get a 7 year 200,000 mile engine warranty for $1800. I am going to buy it as much as this big ol truck of mine has been in the shop.
I dont want to pay $39,000 for the 2009, and I have to have something to pull my 32 foot fifth wheel.
Very sad, I thought this truck would run 250,000 with only oil changes and general maintance.
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