Project 7.3

[Bduck]

Here is a little history of the 7.3L Diesel. I have gone thru some of the woes of power reduction or loss of power because of sensors. As recommended install new OEM sensors staying away from aftermarket.

What Makes The 2000 Ford F-350 So Special?

7.3L Power Stroke Diesel V8 Engine
The engine found in the 2000 diesel-powered Super Duty is the first of the Power Stroke family, and the first diesel engine to reach 500lbft of torque. Also known as the Navistar T444E, built by Navistar International, this was a flagship engine from 1994 to 2003, when it was discontinued as a result of California's noise regulations. A direct-injection diesel engine with a dry weight of 920lbs and a power output of 235 horses in 1999. By the time the engine was retired, it could produce 275 hp when paired with a manual transmission.
This engine's legendary durability is owed to a few key factors. The cast-iron engine block and cylinder heads don't crack easily, especially when you consider that this engine is rather underpowered by modern standards and probably works hard for most of its life. The 7.3's relatively modest output means they weren't trying to push this engine to its absolute limit. Forged steel rods and crankshaft no doubt helped to keep the 7.3 going, as well. It's important to note that these rods were replaced with less robust powered metal rods in 2001, which makes it one of the 7.3L Power Stroke's years to avoid.

Ford 7.3-Liter Power Stroke Years to Avoid: Navigating the Pitfalls
Even one of Ford's most reliable engines had a few faults.

You've likely noticed that, when you're reading about high mileage, it's usually a work truck, right? The 7.3L Power Stroke has no place in a production sedan, so the fact that this engine primarily made its way into the hands of working men and women has no doubt helped to contribute to its reputation. When your vehicle is your bread and butter, you're less tempted to put your oil changes off or keep riding with a dirty air filter. A dirty air filter is especially detrimental to a diesel's health, as it causes the engine to run hot.

As reliable as the 7.3 Power Stroke may be, it's not entirely without issue. Sensor failure has been known to result in engine stall, the fuel filter housing has been known to crack and cause fuel leaks, the turbocharger up-pipes can leak from the joints, and the exhaust back-pressure valve was known to close up in the cold. Navistar continued to troubleshoot these issues throughout the 7.3's lifetime.

2000 Ford F-350 7.3L Engine Specs

Engine Size
7.3-liter V8

Power
235 hp

Torque
500lb-ft

Bore
4.11 inches

Stroke
4.18 inches

Cylinder Block
Cast iron

Cylinder Head
Cast iron

Compression ratio
17.5:1