Ford Powerstroke Diesel Engines: Identify Your Engine by the 8th Digit of the VIN

If you drive a Ford Super Duty diesel, knowing exactly which Powerstroke engine is under the hood is crucial for maintenance, performance upgrades, and ordering the right parts. The 8th digit of your VIN reveals your engine’s generation—each with its own strengths, quirks, and specs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to Powerstroke VIN identification, model applications, and factory performance numbers.

Powerstroke VIN Identification Chart

8th VIN Digit Engine Model Years Horsepower (hp) Torque (lb-ft  Vehicle Applications
F 7.3L 1994–2003 210–275 425–525

F-250 to F-550, Excursion, Econoline
P 6.0L 2003–2010* 325–350 560–650 F-250 to F-550, Excursion, Econoline
R 6.4L 2008–2010 350 650 F-250 to F-550
T 6.7L 2011–2016 390–440 735–860 F-250 to F-550, F-650/750
 

*Some E-Series vans and cab/chassis trucks used the 6.0L through 2010.

Engine Details by VIN Code

7.3L Powerstroke (VIN "F"): 1994–2003

  • Legendary for reliability and simplicity—the 7.3L is a favorite among diesel fans for its durability and ease of maintenance.

  • Factory output:

    • Early years: ~210–250 hp, 425–505 lb-ft

    • Late years: 275 hp @ 2,800 rpm, 525 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm

  • Applications:

    • F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 Super Duty pickups and chassis cabs

    • Ford Excursion SUV

6.0L Powerstroke (VIN "P"): 2003–2010

  • Introduced variable geometry turbocharging and a more complex high-pressure oil system for improved power.

  • Factory output:

    • 325 hp @ 3,300 rpm, 560 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm (early)

    • 350 hp @ 3,000 rpm, 650 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm (late)

  • Applications:

    • F-250 through F-550 Super Duty pickups and chassis cabs

    • Ford Excursion (2003–2005)

    • Some E-Series vans and cab/chassis to 2010

6.4L Powerstroke (VIN "R"): 2008–2010

  • Twin turbochargers and common-rail injection made this engine smoother and more powerful than its predecessors.

  • Factory output:

    • 350 hp @ 3,000 rpm, 650 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm

  • Applications:

    • F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 Super Duty pickups and chassis cabs

6.7L Powerstroke (VIN "T"): 2011–2016

  • Ford’s first in-house designed diesel, featuring a CGI block and advanced fuel and turbo systems.

  • Factory output:

    • 2011–2014: 390–400 hp, 735–800 lb-ft

    • 2015–2016: 440 hp @ 2,800 rpm, 860 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm

  • Applications:

    • F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 Super Duty pickups and chassis cabs

    • F-650, F-750 medium-duty trucks

Why VIN Identification Matters

  • Parts compatibility: Turbochargers, injectors, and sensors differ by engine generation.

  • Performance upgrades: Tuning, fueling, and emissions solutions are engine-specific.

  • Maintenance: Each engine has unique service intervals and common issues.

How to Find Your VIN:
Check the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or your registration/title. The 8th character is your Powerstroke engine code.

Need expert Powerstroke service or upgrades?
At NorCal Diesel Performance, we know every Powerstroke inside and out. From the bulletproof 7.3L to the high-tech 6.7L, bring us your VIN and let’s make your Ford diesel the best it can be!

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