Back in 2008, the 6.4L Powerstroke was the first model that came with a completely new design and innovative features for this kind of engine.
With twin factory turbochargers and a diesel particulate filter, it seemed to be in competition with its predecessors.
This engine proved to be strong and reliable mostly because of the newly added characteristics that improved its performance.
Learning from experience, the 6.4L Powerstroke producers added larger features to the new model.
M16 head bolts and a 4 bolt-per-cylinder design is perfectly positioned for superior clamping force.
Although this model significantly reduced fuel economy, it was reliable and had good characteristics. It was the last design created for Ford internationally, and they have not designed a new one since 2011.
The 2008-2018 model of the 6.4L Powerstroke diesel V8 had a cast-iron block and cylinder heads.
The aspiration was composed by twin sequential turbochargers, which were intercooled. It was also designed with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) with an active regeneration system.
This was considered a performance engine. It reached 350 horsepower at 3000 RPM, and the peak torque was at 650 lb-ft at 2000 RPM.
It was a turbo system that was set up to provide a better quality in motion.
Unfortunately, it had a lot of issues that produced a lot of complaints. Most of these complaints targeted the piston ring failures, which increased the temperature of DPF cleaning and exposed the piston rings to excessive heat.
Also, turbocharger bearing seal failures caused the engine to remain in the regeneration mode due to exposure to high temperatures.
The cylinder head valve-guides do not have bronze sleeves, which does not prevent the oil from spreading on the valves.
The 6.4L Powerstroke, aside from the problems mentioned above, had huge maintenance and repair costs compared to previous models.
Although it was a new engine on the market with new features, the advantages of this model were small compared to its issues and problems.