Musings from a mediocre shade-tree mechanic…
Musings from a mediocre shade-tree mechanic…
So I figured I would need to address the shortcomings of the Ford 6.0 at some point, but I didn’t expect to address them all at once nor so soon after purchase.
I bought the van almost midyear 2014 with 74,000 miles. A couple trips and by thanksgiving have about 77,000 miles. The van up and leaves me at work in 20 degree weather. Low and behold, the alternator went caput and took the FICM (already a reman unit) with it. That adventure was documented a little in earlier posts. Turns out that my batteries were fine, especially since they aren’t too old.
While looking at the process to get the alternator out to change it, I figured I would tackle some of the issues with the 6.0:
• Ship off the FICM to FICMrepair along with an Atlas 40 upgrade
• After extensive reading and decision making going back and forth, order 160 amp alternatorparts alternator
• Order one piece EGR delete and turbo drain pipe (bonus, it was already upgraded, get to send it back) from IPRresearch
• Already ordered the external coolant filter
• Order oil cooler, fuel filter, oil filter, Ford update kit with oil pump fittings, oil, coolant, coolant system flush, fuel upgrade blue spring kit, serpentine belt, air filter, etc...
Observations
• This forum and youtube has been an invaluable resource for getting these projects done.
• These vans are NOT easy to work on. Next time, I will find a place to lift the body off so I can work. I probably spent more time staring and trying to figure out how I was going to get it done.
• Having the monster Ford service manuals was great, good information and fairly detailed with images. Got mine off ebay for a reasonable price.
• Winter time with temperatures in the teens – 30’s with intermittent snow is not the time to tackle these repairs.
• Having two small children and a wife who compete for your time is a blessing and hindrance all at the same time.
• Remove the front seats to get into the engine bay a little easier. You have to be a contortionist to work on the motor and get things all buttoned up. Thankfully I have long skinny arms.
This isn’t a job for everyone. If you are comfortable turning wrenches and can follow directions, you shouldn’t have any problems. If you are a little squeamish about the work, find a reputable shop to do the work and make sure they know it’s a van (possibly someone who will remove the body to get the work done a little quicker/easier). I’m new to the diesel scene and wanted this opportunity to learn more about my engine and try to save some money, this was expensive but also rewarding knowing I accomplished the most in-depth wrenching session I’ve ever taken on (besides dismantling my CJ7).
No pictures as this has been covered many times over, once I get my cloth Sienna seats in, I’ll get a pictorial update.