Ford is a famous American car manufacturer that rose in popularity throughout the years because of its high-quality vehicles. The team is full of experts that work together to create reliable vehicles that can last a long time.
In this article, we will talk about one of their creations specifically. The heavy-duty 7.3 Powerstroke engine was extremely popular at the end of the last century. Continue reading, and you will find out 31 things to know about 7.3 Powerstroke engines, injectors, and turbo. We will also discuss some of the most common problems.
Summary
The most important fact about 7.3 Powerstroke engines is to avoid the 2001 and 2002 models as they had significant problems. An interesting fact about the 7.3 Powerstroke engine injector is that is its own special system
In addition, we’ll also cover the following topics:
- The HP
- The MPG
- More
Fact about 7.3 Powerstroke engines
Underneath, we’ve combined a list of facts about 7.3 Powerstroke engines that you might be interested in.
1. Two million were manufactured.
Since it came out in 1994, Ford produced two million 7.3 Powerstroke engines for the next 10 years. The production ended in 2004 as new models joined the market and new technologies were employed. You can find this engine on heavy vehicles such as GM and Chrysler SUVs.

2. They came with a special injector system.
When it was released, it got increased attention in the automotive world. Ford introduced a Hydraulic Electronic Unit Injector to maintain power while keeping an acceptable level of emissions. Even though global warming was not a significant problem decades ago, it still had regulations for clean emissions.
3. Two different turbochargers were used throughout the production years.
From 1994 when it first came out, the 7.3 Powerstroke engine featured a Garrett TP38 Fixed Geometry Turbocharger, which ceased production in 1997. Two years later, Ford decided to introduce the Garrett GTP38 Wastegated Turbocharger. They used it until the production of the engine was interrupted.
4. They had problems.
Failure of the camshaft position sensor was the most common one reported by owners of vehicles with this engine. The sensor controls the camshaft and transfers the information to the central computer to regulate fuel delivery. Other known problems are the injector control pressure sensors and the leaky fuel filter housing.
5. If you can, avoid the 2001 and 2002 models.
They feature more problems than the ones produced in different years. Significant changes at the beginning of the new millennium made this engine louder while also developing problems with the sensors. The introduction of powdered metal rods also significantly decreased the engine’s performance.
6. Specific trouble codes can inform you about issues

There are trouble codes related to the 7.3 Powerstroke engine that will inform you about specific problems. They are:
P0603 – This code informs you there is something wrong with the Powertrain Control Module. It most likely failed the self-test that occurs every time you start your engine. This module controls essential systems in your car, so you should take this warning code seriously.
P1315 – When this code appears, it can indicate several malfunctions. The vehicle’s computer will generate this code when the 4th ignition coil is failing or has a poor electrical connection.
P1211 – Low oil levels or poor oil quality can generate this trouble code. There are some situations where the injection pressure regulator valve and Powertrain Control Module fail. It will lead to the trouble code P1211 being displayed.
P1280 – This specific trouble code appears whenever there is a problem with the Injection Control Pressure sensor. Most likely, the pressure is too low and out of range. It happens because the sensor is flooded with oil, and you will have to clean it up.
P1247 – Another code is P1247, which warns you about several problems. The MAP hose might be damaged or faulty, but you should also consider a problem with the Powertrain Control Module. When the intake manifold presents leaks, this code is also displayed.
7. It has a specific oil type and capacity.
The recommended viscosity for the 7.3 Powerstroke engine is SAE 10W-30, which is ideal in conditions between -10 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. For colder temperatures, use an engine block heater. The entire capacity of the oil tank is 15 quarts.
8. Although a heavy-duty engine, it has a reasonable fuel economy
A Ford F350 with a 7.3 Powerstroke engine has a fuel economy of 15-16 MPG. Other models have different results, where a 2002 Ford F250 gets a combined average MPG of 13.38. While these are heavy vehicles, the engines are more fuel-efficient.
Specifications | Details |
Model | Ford F350 |
Engine | 7.3 Litre V-8 |
Power | 430 Horsepower |
Torque | 475 pound feet |
Interior | Entertainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, 4G WiFi hotspot, Ford SYNC software |
Safety Features | Front, side and overhead airbags, Anti-lock brakes, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, pre-collision avoidance, rear parking sensors. |

9. The Powermaster 9051 is the best starter.
While they share almost the same name, this starter is stronger and faster than the stock one installed. It is also more durable, so you won’t have to worry about things breaking down. The gear reduction starter generates an additional 4 HP, which can be noticeable when towing trailers.
10. You can get engine crates that are ready to install
The estimated price of a 7.3 Powerstroke engine crate is $8,150, and it comes ready for installation. A cast iron 6-bolt main block is included, but you can customize it to your preference.
11. The stock fuel pump is quite good.
Vehicles featuring a 7.3 Powerstroke engine come with a Bosch 69136 fuel pump installed from the factory. It can provide adequate performance and is located on the driver’s side frame rail. You can replace it if you want, but most owners are satisfied with it.
12. It produces a maximum of 275 HP.
At its lowest capacity, the 7.3 Powerstroke engine produces 210 horsepower at 3,000 RPM and 275 horsepower at 2,800 when it is operating at its peak. You can add more horsepower and increase your performance by tuning your vehicle.

13. It has not one but two fuel filters.
Two fuel filters are installed on this massive engine, and you should consider changing them at fixed intervals. The manufacturer recommends changing these filters every 15,000 miles to avoid problems with clogged fuel filters full of debris.
14. The PHP Hydra Tuner is the best tuner to use
Made in the USA, this tuner is the number one choice for this type of engine. It has universal custom tune support, and you can instantly change the tunes when driving. The installation process takes less than 15 minutes, and the Hydra can offer you 16 different power levels.
Specifications | Description |
Name | PHP Hydra Chip 7.3L power stroke |
Software | HydraFlash |
Display | Easy to read two digit display with Switch-on-the-Fly Control |
Positions | 17, built-in Module Bypass |
Compatibility | PATS-equipped vehicles |
Made in | USA |
15. The ICP sensor failures are easy to detect
The symptoms directly affect your engine’s performance. In some cases, it might not even start. A balanced fuel mixture is required for perfect ignition. A broken sensor could prevent that by giving false readings to the vehicle’s computer. You should check this sensor more often than usual.
16. You can install several performance upgrades.

Removing the catalytic converter and replacing the stock exhaust with a modified one will give you the best performance results. However, your road might no longer be road legal after this modification. You can also increase the air intake into the engine to make it as efficient as possible.
17. Motorcraft manufactures the oil filters you can use
Oil filters are responsible for removing contaminants and debris from the engine oil. These filters prevent dirt and small particles from entering the engine block and damaging the components. The one installed on this engine is highly efficient, but you should change it regularly.
18. The oil cooler might cause some problems.
They are easy to spot when you notice a puddle of oil under the right side of the 7.3 Powerstroke engine. It warns you about a problem with the oil cooler. Its O-rings have likely failed, and the oil can easily leak through the ends.
19. The Smileracing 6.0 is the best cold air intake replacement for this engine.
This aftermarket part allows you to bring more cool air into the car’s engine block and help keep the temperatures low. This product is made from aluminum and stainless steel, so its durability is guaranteed. It is very easy to install, and you don’t need to remove the turbo for this procedure.

20. The exhaust housing is one of the most important pieces of its system. Luckily, Flashark Store has the perfect product.
This exhaust housing is made from an aluminum alloy combined with iron, making it strong and durable. It is also resistant to abrasion and continuous vibrations. Extreme temperatures are not a problem either since this part can easily resist exposure to 1,652 degrees Fahrenheit.
21. Gates sells the best high-pressure water pump.
They created this water pump that fits perfectly to your engine and it meets all the specifications and requirements demanded by the manufacturer. A lifetime warranty guarantees the efficiency of this product, which will increase your vehicle’s performance.
22. The Powerstroke weighs approximately 920 pounds.

This 920-pound engine delivers all the performance and efficiency of your vehicle. The weight of an engine is important because the lighter it is, the more performance you get. Vehicles with this engine installed are considered heavy-duty instead of lightweight.
