Ford F650-F750 Truck Engine Parts & Cooling

Frequently Asked Questions About Ford F650-F750 Truck Engine Parts & Cooling

What engine options are available for F650-F750 trucks, and which parts are compatible with each?

Ford F650-F750 trucks typically come with either the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel or the 7.3L V8 gas engine. Most cooling system components like radiators, water pumps, and thermostats are engine-specific. When ordering parts, you'll need your VIN or engine serial number to ensure compatibility. The 6.7L Power Stroke uses a dual-radiator setup with specific coolant capacity requirements, while the 7.3L gas engine has a single radiator configuration. Always verify your engine type before purchasing cooling components.

How difficult is it to replace the radiator on an F650-F750, and what tools are required?

Radiator replacement on these trucks requires intermediate mechanical skills and typically takes 3-4 hours. You'll need basic hand tools, a coolant drain pan (minimum 5-gallon capacity), and potentially a hoist for heavy-duty radiators. The main challenges include accessing mounting bolts behind the grille assembly and properly disconnecting transmission cooler lines without damage. Many customers report needing to remove the entire front grille and possibly the charge air cooler on diesel models. Professional installation runs $400-600 if you prefer to avoid the complexity.

What are the most common cooling system failures on F650-F750 trucks?

Based on customer feedback, the most frequent issues include coolant reservoir cracks (especially on 2016-2019 models), water pump bearing failure around 80,000-100,000 miles, and thermostat sticking closed causing overheating. The EGR cooler on 6.7L diesel engines is also prone to internal leaks after 150,000 miles. Early warning signs include coolant loss without visible leaks, temperature fluctuations, or white exhaust smoke. Regular coolant system pressure tests can catch these issues before they cause major damage.

Which aftermarket brands offer the best quality-to-price ratio for F650-F750 engine parts?

For cooling system components, Dorman and Gates consistently receive positive reviews for their radiators and hoses, offering OEM-equivalent quality at 30-40% less cost. Motorcraft remains the gold standard for thermostats and water pumps, with minimal failure rates reported. For heavy-duty applications, aluminum radiators from Mishimoto or Griffin provide superior cooling capacity but cost 2-3 times more than standard replacements. Avoid no-name brands on critical components like water pumps, as customers report premature failures within 20,000 miles.

What maintenance schedule should I follow for the cooling system on my F650-F750?

Ford recommends coolant changes every 45,000 miles or 3 years for standard duty cycles, but severe-duty applications should reduce this to 30,000 miles. Inspect coolant hoses and clamps every oil change, as these trucks' engine vibration can cause premature wear. The coolant system should be pressure tested annually, especially if you notice any coolant loss. Replace the thermostat preventatively at 100,000 miles and the water pump at 150,000 miles to avoid roadside failures. Using the correct coolant type (Motorcraft Orange for most models) is critical to prevent corrosion and gasket degradation.