All About Ford’s Power Stroke Diesel Engine

As your Ford diesel truck dealer, we’ve heard all the critiques and the praise about Ford’s power stroke engines. While Navistar built the original, less popular power stroke engine, those days are far behind us. Ford now builds the power stroke diesel engine directly. They’re no longer partnered with Navistar. In fact, Ford trucks produced from 2010 and on offer the official Ford-built power stroke engine––an engine that redeemed Ford from Navistar’s early, underperforming power stroke engines. Since Ford decided to take the reins and make the power stroke their own, this diesel powerhouse has become one of the most powerful and reliable diesel engines on the market.

Before the Power Stroke

There were many different engines before the power stroke showed up, including the incredibly important 6.9-liter International Diesel Engine. This is back when it was common for engine blocks to be made from cast iron rather than aluminum alloy. While this engine is dated, this by no means should contradict its power. The 6.9-liter naturally aspirated diesel engine was able to produce up to 340 pound-feet of torque back in 1982.

By 1988, this engine had an increase in size, reaching 7.3 liters. After testing the waters with this stronger engine for a few years, the final design came out in 1993 using turbocharged technology rather than natural aspiration. While these engine designs are less eco-friendly and efficient today compared to our current engine technologies, the International Diesel Engine is still up and running on many 1980s Ford trucks today. (This is partially thanks to its strong, heavy-duty cast iron engine block).

In order to compete with successful rivals, Ford had to up the ante, which is where the first power stroke engine comes into the picture––the 7.3-liter power stroke. This engine is the one that took Ford to the top. Ford went from producing a max of 388 pound-feet of torque to being able to reach 525 pound-feet of torque, thanks to this engine.

The Power Stroke’s Dark Days

The 7.3-liter Power Stroke engine was certainly a favorite among diesel truck drivers; that said, its practicality waned over time due to harsher emission restrictions and developing technologies. As a result, Ford decided to make a new engine––the 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel. Unfortunately, this engine did not perform well in comparison to the competition or past power stroke engines. Developers tried increasing the power a bit with the 6.4-liter Power Stroke, but to no avail. This is where the bad reputation for power strokes came in. The catch here is that this engine didn’t last for long, only ranging from 2004 to 2010. So, the power stroke engine you know today is a completely different (and better) engine.

How the Power Stroke Rose Above the Ashes

Up until now, all of Ford’s power stroke engines were developed with International (now known as “Navistar”). The company really wanted to tower above the competition, and that was proving impossible if they kept their partnership with Navistar. In 2011, the Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke engine came to life, producing as much as 735 pound-feet of torque right out the gate. By 2017, this same exact engine could pump out up to 925 pound-feet of torque and tow as much as 21,000 pounds.

The Most Powerful Power Stroke Diesel Engine Yet!

Think that’s impressive? The newer F-350 Super Duty trucks (2020 to 2022) can tow up to 35,750 pounds with the 6.7-liter power stroke turbocharged V8 engine. To put this into perspective, the 6.9-liter International Diesel Engine that we talked about earlier could only tow up to 9,800 pounds. While that’s impressive for its time, Ford has come a long way with their powerful engine technologies and designs to create the reliable yet powerful engines that we use today.

Pick Out Your Used Ford Diesel Truck Now!

Now that you can see why the power stroke got such a bad rep and how short-lived its “bad days” actually were, you can visit your DePaula Ford knowing that 2011+ Ford diesel trucks are safe to purchase. Let’s take a closer look at a few great Ford SuperDuty options.

An Older Pick: The 2013 Ford Super Duty

If you’re looking for a used truck and you’re on a budget, you might want to consider an older model like the 2013 Super Duty. This truck is available in F-250 and F-350 models, but if you’re looking for the highest towing capacity, you’ll want to choose an F-350. This particular model year is capable of towing up to 14,000 pounds, producing up to 800 pound-feet of torque. Plus, it’s not tech-free just because of its age. You’ll still get a touchscreen infotainment system, Hill Start Assist, and Trailer Sway Control. Plus, you’ll get to choose from several different trim levels, including the beloved King Ranch and Lariat trims.

A Middle Ground: The 2017 Ford Super Duty

While our next truck does have some age on it, making it more affordable, it’s also new enough to have pretty much any tech features and capabilities you’ll ever need. The 2017 Ford Super Duty truck offers the newer 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel engine. This means that the F-350 can tow up to 21,000 pounds conventionally and up to 32,500 pounds with a gooseneck hitch.

Thanks to modern technologies, the 2017 Ford Super Duty includes more standard features, such as an SOS Emergency Crash Response system, tire pressure monitoring for both the truck and the trailer, and seat tethers for children. There’s also an available Trailer Reverse Guidance system to help out when you’re backing up your trailer. No matter which trim you choose, you’ll also get features like an easy-up tailgate and adjustable lumbar support. As you upgrade trims, you can access other standard features such as automatic climate control and in-dash Navigation.

The Newer Used Model: The 2020 Ford Super Duty

Looking for a new, used model? Then the 2022 Ford Super Duty is your best bet. This model has the powerful 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine that can tow up to 35,750 pounds when you opt for the F-350 version. This model produces a whopping 1,050 pound-feet of torque, so you can rest assured that hills and inclines are easier to climb than ever before. In addition to its vast power, this used diesel truck is also your best bet for technology. You can access features such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which helps you line up your hitch to your trailer. This technology also makes it easier to back your trailer up, thanks to cameras and sensors.

If you want a tow-capable truck that’s also off-road savvy, that’s all the more reason to stick with the 2020 Super Duty. This truck is the first Ford Super Duty to offer the Tremor Off-Roading package, adding a 10.4-inch ground clearance rating, a 33-inch water fording maximum, and most importantly, Trail Control. Thanks to Trail Control, you can choose from several different drive modes depending on the current road conditions. This includes a Rock Crawling mode.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Model

It’s easy to see that as your Ford diesel truck dealer, we’ve got a lot of different options to offer. Whether you want an older model, a newer model, or something in between, we’ve got options! If you’re not quite sure where you fit, we’re here to help you decide. When it comes right down to it, what matters most is your lifestyle and your budget. These and other factors to do with personal preference will determine which make, model, and trim you need. The good news is that everyone here at DePaula Ford is knowledgeable about Power Stroke engines and the differing Ford Super Duty models. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about our vast diesel truck selection so you can find the perfect match for your truck needs.