2007 6.0 Powerstroke reliability.

[JSUnlimited]

I'm looking at a 2007 F350 Lariat DRW 4x4 with 82,523 miles. It was a one owner truck. I have requested a "Oasis" report from the dealer (Ford dealer) and am looking forward to seeing it Monday when I go back there. They are ASKING $25,900 for the Ford.

I do need a truck of this caliber as I have always had diesels and basically use a truck like truck. I had a 2003 F350 7.3L PSD and traded it in with 230K miles. I currently have a 2005 Silverado 2500HD extened cad 4x4 with 93K miles.

I like the Silverado but I really miss my old F350 plus I need a crew cab now that my family is expanding (baby due anytime!). I beggining to have a rash of electrical issues but that is a whole other situation. The main thing is the need for a crew cab for pulling a 40' 5th wheel camper (12-13K pounds, give or take) with 2 dogs, wife, 7 year old, and soon a baby girl! I do pull also a 24' gooseneck hauling my various pieces of equipment around (10K pounds or so).

The bottom line is I want to know the relability history of the 2007 6.0. I know that the early models had thier share of problems. Any experiences?

*Disclaimer* This by no means will turn into you should buy this or that please! I do not want a Dodge period. I miss my Ford.

Here's a pic of the possible new to me truck.

 

[Dmace]

If you want a Ford that bad then I would look for the 6.4l Powerstroke (Jan. 2007 to 2010 model year) and bypass the headache of the 6.0l all together. The price does sound good though.

It's still far from the greatness of a Cummins or Duramax but your chances of catastrophic failure are much less with the newer 6.4l vs. the 6.0l. If that truck had more miles then I wouldn't be as worried as they say if you haven't had head gasket problems within the first 125k miles then you probably won't. If you do get it, get the longest extended warranty you can and make sure it covers head gaskets...

 

[NWOH_Grizz]

If it has not been chipped, and has had the correct maintenance, it should be a reliable engine. Correct maintenance for the 6.0 includes 6-7K mile oil/filter changes, as it uses the engine oil to activate the injectors, which causes oil shearing. The coolant needs to be changed regularly to avoid junking up the oil cooler which causes the EGR cooler to fail. Thats a very common problem, and doesn't need to happen. A good aftermarket coolant filter can extend the life of the coolant. Fuel filter changes (both of them) prevent low fuel pressure which destroys injectors, so they need changing.

If there is ANY evidence that the truck has ever been chipped, run away from it. You don't want to be buying head gaskets, injectors, or pistons, on this engine.

It should still be under Ford's 5yr 100K mile engine warranty, so thats a help. YMMV, but generally, the 2005-up 6.0's are OK if they are maintained. Check the maintenance records if they are available.

 

[Raspy]

Why would you take a very large gamble on a truck like that to tow a heavy trailer and transport a large family?

I wouldn't even consider this for a grocery getter, much less a work horse. What is it about a 6.0 that makes you want it so bad? No offense intended, but I just don't get it.

 

[Cat_Driver]

You need to ask where they 6.0 peopel hang out, you will get a pretty clear picture of what's going on.

6.0L Problems Forum - Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum

 

[scoutcub]

I think most of the issues were with the earliest engines 03-05. There might be some problematic 6.0's out there but I think many many more trouble free ones.
I bought my 06 KR dually 6.0 in 06 with 3,000 miles on it, it now has 60,000 with no issues. I typically haul a 30' gooseneck (7K empty) a 30' enclosed (6K empty) and they're never empty, a slide in camper (4K) and smaller trailers as well.
I amsoiled the whole truck, have a platinum edge chip, and K& N filter. I don't beat on it with the chip, although the few times I tried the "extreme" mode it'll set you back in your seat and smoke most cars on the road. (with some smoke!) I have it in "economy" or "tow" mode 99% of the time.
One thing I haven't done yet is install some ARB head bolts. I have been doing oil changes every 10,000, but will probably switch to 5,000 with the towing I do. Keeping the air filter clean is another biggie.
Looks like a very nice truck, if the oasis report comes back good I wouldn't hesitate to buy it.

The one thing I've heard from a few folks regarding the 6.4 is that it's thirstier than the 6.0.

Good luck!

 

[Diamondpilot]

If it has not been chipped, and has had the correct maintenance, it should be a reliable engine. Correct maintenance for the 6.0 includes 6-7K mile oil/filter changes, as it uses the engine oil to activate the injectors, which causes oil shearing. The coolant needs to be changed regularly to avoid junking up the oil cooler which causes the EGR cooler to fail. Thats a very common problem, and doesn't need to happen. A good aftermarket coolant filter can extend the life of the coolant. Fuel filter changes (both of them) prevent low fuel pressure which destroys injectors, so they need changing.

If there is ANY evidence that the truck has ever been chipped, run away from it. You don't want to be buying head gaskets, injectors, or pistons, on this engine.

It should still be under Ford's 5yr 100K mile engine warranty, so thats a help. YMMV, but generally, the 2005-up 6.0's are OK if they are maintained. Check the maintenance records if they are available.

Listen to this guy and forget all the 6.0 haters. I have 2 currently, a 04 F-250 and a 06 F-350. Both are chipped with Quadzilla stuff and have MAC intakes and air cleaners. Neither has had a single issue other than the 06 needed a new dash cluster due to a bad fuel gauge. I use the F-350 to pull a 15,600# boat and other trailers up to 25,000# occasionally. The F-250 now leads a easy life pulling no more than 12,000# a few times a month.

I have no less than 10 customers who drive 6.0's and the biggest problem any have had is a EGR valve. No turbo's or head gasket issues like others think there are a gazillion of them running around with.


Get what you like but I think I would also consider a 6.4 even though it get worse economy. I have heard noting bad about that engine.

Remember, Ford rules the diesel segment with about 50% of the total diesel sales. GM has about 35% and Dodge 17% so even tough it may look like they have more issues its just not true, its pure numbers.

Chris

 

[JESSE1]

I had an '04 F-350 KR dually with the 6.0, completely stock. Never any problems, pulled any load I put behind it with no complaints. I changed the oil every 3,000 miles and fuel filters every 12,000 miles. Ran smooth and quiet.

 

[combanx]

Let me start by saying that I have always liked Ford products. In 2000 I bought a brand new Excursion with the old style 7.4 litre engine...I think that was the size. That truck never gave me a problem except the brake rotors seemed to warp all the time. I did all regular work on it myself and ended up selling it in 05 with over 450000km guess that would be about 300000 miles or so. The fellow I sold it to is still driving it today.
I then bought an 05 Excursion Eddie Baurer.......beautiful truck but the problems were unreal. The motor was pulled 4 times in two years.
They must have replaced everything. It was a nightmare. I even went to 2 dealers thinking that maybe it was the dealer.....no way....this truck was never chipped and taken care of all the time, including synthetic deisel oil changes every 3000 miles etc. fuel filters, oil filters, coolant etc. This was and is the worst engine I have ever had. Never would I even touch a truck with the 6.0 litre engine. Stay away as far as you can. Ford sells more trucks because they give a much better price to fleet buyers then GM or Dodge.
I still buy Ford products however never ever any Deisel products.

Regards
Combanx

 

[JSUnlimited]

Why would you take a very large gamble on a truck like that to tow a heavy trailer and transport a large family?

I wouldn't even consider this for a grocery getter, much less a work horse. What is it about a 6.0 that makes you want it so bad? No offense intended, but I just don't get it.

No offense taken. But I have to ask, you don't get what? As a 6'3" mid #200's I really appreciate the room in the Ford cabs, not to mention the overall fit and finish that Ford offers. To each thier own I guess. At least I would have the balance of the factory warranty whereas I have nothing now. Not much left but at least it is something.

I've rolled the dice on many other used vehicles with somewhat good luck...fortunately I have the ability to do most of my own work. The chances you take with a used vehicle are a gamble!

The previous truck, the 03 F350 7.3L; 2 injectors, cam sensor, rear axle seals, ball joints, and both front hubs replaced along with the vacuum solennoid for the 4wd system.

My current 05 Silverado DMax-Allison; replaced transfer case motor, 4wd dash switch, and front axle actuator and still it works whenever it wants. Idler arm replaced. A majority of the dash lights don't work, major rust starting under the rear doors, center console lid hinge broke, CD player not working.

And the wife's 05 Suburban; u-joints, water pump and now the airbag light is on. Otherwise it is in excellent condition with all of the bells and whistles.

Just curious.

 

[rilesdav]

I used to have a 6.0 f-350. I had nothing but problems,

 

[rilesdav]

If the 6.0 and the 6.4's are so great why did ford decide to start making the engines in house???? Just food for thought.

 

[W7XYZ]

I'm looking at a 2007 F350 Lariat DRW 4x4 with 82,523 miles.... They are ASKING $25,900 for the Ford.

I had a 2003 F350 7.3L PSD and traded it in with 230K miles. I currently have a 2005 Silverado 2500HD extended cad 4x4 with 93K miles.

I beggining to have a rash of electrical issues but that is a whole other situation. The main thing is the need for a crew cab for pulling a 40' 5th wheel camper, --- I do pull also a 24' gooseneck hauling my various pieces of equipment around.

I'm not a Ford diesel guy, so I can't debate the merits of one Ford over another. Minus the trade-in value of the Chevy, you're paying 26 grand for 2 years and 10K miles. No offense intended, but I just don't get it either. With the miles you're are putting on and the questionable history of the 2007 - look at new. I know it might be a big initial hit, but with a 40' 5th wheel, don't plead poverty. Sorry, but that's how it strikes me.

 

[Raspy]

No offense taken. But I have to ask, you don't get what? As a 6'3" mid #200's I really appreciate the room in the Ford cabs, not to mention the overall fit and finish that Ford offers. To each thier own I guess. At least I would have the balance of the factory warranty whereas I have nothing now. Not much left but at least it is something.

I've rolled the dice on many other used vehicles with somewhat good luck...fortunately I have the ability to do most of my own work. The chances you take with a used vehicle are a gamble!






I can appreciate having room to sit in, but the big deal, or risk, is the engine. Except for the few that cannot find anything wrong with the 6.0 ever, there are a lot of folks who have had a very bad time with them and Ford had a warrantee disaster with them, then dropped the design and tried to move on. I hope this one works out well for you, but what I don't get is the BIG chance you are willing to take with it? But I don't need to get it, it's your decision, I'm just curious. Yes, some have been "lucky" with them. Will you be? I hope so. And if you do have a problem, at least you'll be comfortable, while waiting for the tow truck, with all that room and fine finish. Again, no offense meant, I really hope it works out for you.

I'm a gearhead, and for me a diesel offers torque, longevity, reliability and economy. Why else have one? Oh yeah, it's that fit and finish thing.

 

[crbr]

You need to ask where they 6.0 peopel hang out, you will get a pretty clear picture of what's going on.

6.0L Problems Forum - Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum

Proof is in the pudding.

 

[Ryan03]

My current 05 Silverado DMax-Allison; replaced transfer case motor, 4wd dash switch, and front axle actuator and still it works whenever it wants.

.

If you have not already done so, check the ground cable connection at the rear of the left front cab mount bracket. When this ground gets corroded, it can lead to intermittent 4wd malfunctions. My second thought would be a tranfer case motor encoder module, located behind the headlamp switch, although encoder module failure was more of an 03-04 issue.

As for the F350 DRW, that sure is a pretty Ford. As others have mentioned, the only real issue to debate here is the 6.0L, as most would probably agree that the rest of the superduty package is sound. Some on this board have had great luck with the 6.0 {Dargo, Diamond Pilot come to mind} others have not had such good luck. I own an 03 Dmax, and have had good luck with it so far to 108k, others have not {CRBR}. Regardless of make, you will find people with success stories and horror stories about each of the big 3's trucks.

My opinion, while trying to remain as unbiased as possible, is that you are looking at a diesel truck that is almost 4yrs old with nearly 90k miles on it for 26 grand for over the road use. There is a 50/50 chance that you are spending 26k on a good sound unit, or a money sucking hole. The odds don't sound real good to me.

Forgetting about the hot topic 6.0 for a minute, think about the other wear items that may be getting ready to rear they're ugly heads, such as front wheel bearings, ball joints, tie rod ends, u joints, door lock solenoids, keless entry key pods, power window regulators, Ac compressors etc. My advice is if you are willing to spend 26k on used, go another 10 or 12k to 36 or 38k, and get a newer lower mileage truck with a lower APR rate. If you cannot swing more than 26k, get a Ford with less bells and whistles on it that has lower miles.

 

[Diamondpilot]

If the 6.0 and the 6.4's are so great why did ford decide to start making the engines in house???? Just food for thought.

Because neither one made emissions. The 6.4 was just a hold over to get the a increase in HP and get away from the bad reputation the early 6.0's had. It was never meant to stay around. It was just brought in till they could get the new engine developed.

Chris

 

[Soundguy]

my 04 f250 has the 6.0 never a problem with it. it is just turning 100K this week.

i have a 99 f450 with the 7.3. I like both trucks. the 6.0 is of course a little faster off the line, but I needed the capacity of the 450 to pull a larger trailer.

at 82k if a head hasn't blown off.... etc.

I'd look at maintenance.. if it's been maintained and cared for.. that means alot.

soundguy

 

[coobie]

I'm looking at a 2007 F350 Lariat DRW 4x4 with 82,523 miles. It was a one owner truck. I have requested a "Oasis" report from the dealer (Ford dealer) and am looking forward to seeing it Monday when I go back there. They are ASKING $25,900 for the Ford.

I do need a truck of this caliber as I have always had diesels and basically use a truck like truck. I had a 2003 F350 7.3L PSD and traded it in with 230K miles. I currently have a 2005 Silverado 2500HD extened cad 4x4 with 93K miles.

I like the Silverado but I really miss my old F350 plus I need a crew cab now that my family is expanding (baby due anytime!). I beggining to have a rash of electrical issues but that is a whole other situation. The main thing is the need for a crew cab for pulling a 40' 5th wheel camper (12-13K pounds, give or take) with 2 dogs, wife, 7 year old, and soon a baby girl! I do pull also a 24' gooseneck hauling my various pieces of equipment around (10K pounds or so).

The bottom line is I want to know the relability history of the 2007 6.0. I know that the early models had thier share of problems. Any experiences?

*Disclaimer* This by no means will turn into you should buy this or that please! I do not want a Dodge period. I miss my Ford.

Here's a pic of the possible new to me truck.

Do your research here Diesel Forum - TheDieselStop.com

 

[QRTRHRS]

I have been looking around at what is out there in used Ford's myself so this is a good thread for me as well. Is it true that if you do have to pull the head's on a 6.0 that you need to raise the cab or is that just a dumb rumor?

Also, how do the Ford automatic transmissions do with an exhaust brake?

As for antifreeze, are you Ford owners using a good quality deisel rated product or just the off the shelf brands?