How to diagnose and repair the 6.0L Powerstroke crank no start

The 6.0L Powerstroke crank is a good engine and can be dependable, just like other Ford Powerstroke diesel engines. It does not make so much noise and has modern-day emission standards. Above all, it is a winner when it comes to drivability. But here is the rub. The engine operates on high oil pressures that can result in oil leaks and other technical issues. So what do you do when your Ford 6.0L Powerstroke runs into a problem? In this guide, I will walk you through the whole process of troubleshooting a 6.0L Powerstroke crank no start.

6.0L Powerstroke crank no start diagnostic tips

The first step to start troubleshooting a 6.0L Powerstroke is to figure out the root cause of the problem. What this means is this. You should be able to lay your fingers on what causes the no-start problem in the engine.

Warning: At times, several factors can come together to disrupt the performance of the engine.

With a few years of experience in troubleshooting a no-start issue in the 6.0L Powerstroke cranks no start, I have been able to gather a few diagnostic tips. I believed you would find them helpful in troubleshooting the Ford 6.0L Powerstroke no start.

  1. Check the starter relay connections: Wiring problems are among the many problems your engine has refused to kick start. To confirm if it is a wiring problem, disconnect the light blue stripe colored wire under the hood and adjacent to the passenger side battery near the squeeze-and-pull type connection. After disconnecting the wire, connect the main end of the connector to the positive terminal of the passenger side battery. The starter should crank during the test, or there is a wiring problem.
  2. Inspect the EGR valve because the 6.0L Powerstroke engine will encounter a starting problem if the EGR is dirty or damaged.
  3. Check the ICP sensor: A damaged ICP sensor also contributes to a no-start problem in the engine. Also, watch out for the ICP circuit fuse.
  4. The ignition switch and the starter: Another diagnostic check to run when having a nose start issue is to check the ignition switch and the starter. If the parts are not working properly, the engine will have a problem engaging the starter.
  5. Plug and battery connections: Are all the battery connections secured, including the ground connections? Also, are the plug connectors having a secured connection?
  6. Low battery voltage: To start a 6.0L Powerstroke, you will need about 180 to 200 rpm cracking speed. If the battery voltage does not fall within this range, you will have difficulty getting the engine to kick start.
  7. Oil level: There will be a no-start condition if the engine oil level is below the required oil level to build fuel pressure. Always remember that the 6.0L Powerstroke will need a high-pressure oil circuit for building its fuel pressure.
  8. Fuel quality: an engine with excess water in the fuel will cause damage to the injectors and usually results in a no-start condition. What I do in this situation is to drain the excess water in the fuel tank from time to time.

Related: 6.0L Powerstroke EGR Cooler Failure Symptoms

6.0L Powerstroke diesel no start when a hot diagnosis

If you are experiencing a no-start condition when the engine is hot, consider inspecting leaks in the high-pressure oil rail o ring. It is usually the most common cause of a no-start condition when the engine is hot.

By now, you are probably wondering what could cause leakage in the oil rail o ring? The simple truth is that leakages are bound to occur in the oil rails if they are not properly reinstalled.

How to repair the 6.0L Powerstroke crank no start

Before you go all out to repair a no-start condition in the engine, make sure to verify the wiring annex and connector. Also, it is a good idea to replace the 6.0 Powerstroke injectors while troubleshooting a no-start condition.

All you have to do to repair the 6.0L Powerstroke crank with no start condition is to understand the system and follow the manufacturer’s guide.

Related: how many miles will a 6.0L Powerstroke last

FAQs

  1. How do I know that my 6.0L Powerstroke crank needs repair? A no-start condition indicates an error in the engine. It could either arise from a low fuel quality, low oil levels, etc. Another way to identify a bad 6.0L Powerstroke is a decrease in its acceleration, fuel economy, and power. Also, the check engine light keeps coming on with continuous misfires from the engine.
  2. Is the 6.0L Powerstroke crank a good engine? The 6.0L Powerstroke crank has good mileage and great power. Also, it is reliable if the proper diagnostic and checkups are maintained. The engine needs competent repairs and maintenance to stand the test of time.
  3. What problems are common with the 6.0L Powerstroke crank? Fuel injector control module failure, oil cooler failure, and EGR cooler failure are the common problems associated with the 6.0L Powerstroke crank. Also, head gasket failure and the VGT Turbo failure may affect both the new models and old models of the Ford 6.0L Powerstroke engine. You can get by these common problems by installing a coolant filter and replacing the STC fitting with an updated part.

Conclusion

The 6.0L Powerstroke crank will give an optimal performance if properly maintained. You need to know how to repair and diagnose a 6.0L Powerstroke crank; no start to enjoy a good mileage and power from the engine. Make sure to follow all the diagnostic tips to confirm the root cause of the problem before going ahead with the repairs.

This is my final word to you. Make sure to understand how your engine functions before doing any repair on it. You will need to know a few technical know-how and have the right tools before pulling in to repair a no-start condition in a 6.0L Powerstroke crank engine.

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