The Super Duty F series trucks launched by Ford Motor Company. F-250 to F-550 come out from the door, equipped with a sturdy 6.4L power stroke engine manufactured by an international company. When the 6.4L Super Duty was first launched, it changed the game rules for Ford car owners. This engine is designed to provide higher performance and meet strict emission standards, making it a critical component of Ford heavy-duty trucks. 6.4 Powerstroke is renowned for its twin turbocharged V8 design, which provides impressive power while maintaining fuel efficiency. Due to its powerful performance, this turbocharging device stands out among other power stroke engines.
In this article, we will introduce the design of a 6.4L power stroke engine, which makes it unreliable but extremely powerful. We will introduce key performance attributes and how these attributes affect traction capacity, total horsepower, and torque values. We will also briefly introduce common issues with 6.4L power stroke
6.4L Powerstroke Diesel Engine
- The 6.4L Powerstroke is a V-8 turbocharged diesel engine manufactured by International Navistar. The 6.4L power stroke engine is based on the international commercial MaxxForce 7 engine. 6.4 is the first international engine equipped with a diesel particulate filter used on Ford diesel trucks.
It is also the last international diesel engine used on Ford super trucks. The engine was only used for a few years from 2008 to 2010, after which Ford terminated its diesel agreement with International Navistar. After terminating the agreement, Ford launched their own independently developed diesel engine, the 6.7L Powerstroke diesel V-8 engine, in 2011.
6.4 Powerstroke Technical Specifications
- The 6.4 Powerstroke Engine features a 6.4-liter V8 turbocharged diesel engine with specifications that directly impact its performance. These include a specific displacement, bore, stroke, and compression ratio, all crucial for delivering its power output. One of the standout features of this engine is its twin-turbo setup, which plays a significant role in improving engine efficiency and performance. The dual turbochargers provide increased airflow, helping the engine produce higher horsepower and torque
- The twin-turbo configuration helps the 6.4 Powerstroke engine deliver an impressive power output, especially in applications requiring high performance, such as towing and hauling.
6.4L power stroke issue
- The reliability of a 6.4L power stroke diesel engine is not as good as that of a 7.3L power stroke, and even worse than the updated 6.7L power stroke. These engines are comparable to 6.0L and typically have a shorter lifespan. The average lifespan of a 6.4L power stroke engine is typically less than 200000 miles, even on inventory trucks.
6.4 Maintenance and reliability of power stroke
Like any diesel engine, the 6.4 power stroke requires regular maintenance to maintain reliability. Some known issues include oil dilution, potential fuel contamination of engine oil, and EGR system malfunction that may cause blockages. Another common issue is diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockage, which reduces exhaust flow and affects performance. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and cleaning of EGR, can help prevent these issues from affecting engine life. Common problems and suggested solutions
- Oil dilution: Use high-quality oil and replace it regularly
- EGR blockage: Clean or replace the EGR system
- DPF blockage: Regularly perform DPF regeneration or remove the system
Proper maintenance can help extend the lifespan of a 6.4 power stroke engine and ensure its smooth operation in the coming years.
Proper maintenance
- Although there are many common 6.4L power stroke issues, proper maintenance and investment in high-quality aftermarket parts can greatly improve reliability and engine life. You should also follow a strict maintenance plan and have these trucks repaired every 5000 miles. The oil-water separator should be emptied weekly or every other week to prevent rusting of the fuel system.
Application and compatible vehicles
- 6.4 The Powerstroke engine appears on various Ford Super Duty trucks, including F-250, F-350, and F-450 models. These trucks are designed specifically for heavy-duty applications such as towing and hauling, making the 6.4 Powerstroke engine perfect for this job. With its combination of power and efficiency, the 6.4 Powerstroke is highly suitable for heavy tasks. These trucks are the best choice for anyone who needs to transport large cargo or trailers.
Whether for work or entertainment purposes, Super Duty trucks equipped with 6.4 Powerstroke are manufactured to handle some of the most challenging tasks on the road.
Traction capability
- The capacity of a 6.4L trailer varies depending on the model year and specifications. The table below lists the maximum conventional and fifth wheel traction capabilities. Before towing, please make sure to check the owner's manual or contact Ford directly to determine your exact capacity. Being cautious is always good, keeping any load below the maximum towing capacity or payload of the truck.
Conclusion:
- The 6.4 Powerstroke engine stands out due to its performance and reliability, becoming a popular choice for Ford Super Duty trucks. Although car owners should pay attention to some common issues, regular maintenance and upgrades can significantly improve their performance. By upgrading the turbine, exhaust, and fuel systems, a more powerful and efficient engine can be achieved.