Common 6.0L Power Stroke Problems

The 6.0 liter Power Stroke is a great diesel, despite a bundle of issues that plagued many of the early engines. The 6.0 is powerful, durable, & reliable. There are more than enough satisified 6.0L owners to back those statements up. However, some of the 6.0L components are prone to problems, especially when maintenance is neglected or the performance is increased by means of aftermarket components.

6.0L Head Bolts

The 6.0L Power Stroke uses Torque to yield (TTY) head bolts to secure the cylinder heads. The stock TTY head bolts do a mediocre job of equalizing the clamping force of the had bolts. The head bolts are also much more prone to stretching than head studs, and under high cylinder pressures are prone to fail. For a 6.0L that remains completely stock, the TTY head bolts are suitable. However, for modified engines or engines that are under constant load, the stock head bolts are a weak link in the 6.0L.

6.0L EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)

The EGR coolers on the 6.0 liter Power Stroke are prone to clogging due to oil & soot build up, which can cause them fail. EGR valves are also notorious for failing due to soot build up, which can lead to over-boosting of the turbocharger.

6.0L Turbocharger

The 6.0L Power Stroke is equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). The 6.0L turbocharger is very efficient & provides quick spooling with plenty of airflow through peak RPM. However, the vanes of the VGT that control the displacement of the turbo are prone to sticking from soot build up. If the vanes stick, performance will be sacrificed.