6.0 Powerstroke Firing Order [With Diagram]

Most of the time this lower engine is used in V8 engines. A V-shape is formed with four cylinders with all cylinders in the proper arrangement. It is decided by the firing order which spark plug is for air, which is for fuel, and which is used for power strokes. The 6.0 Powerstroke was produced by Ford from 2003 to 2007 and was a popular engine choice for heavy-duty work trucks and other applications that required a lot of torque and towing capacity.

Powerstroke 6.0 Firing Order

  • The firing order for Powerstroke 6.0 engines is 1-2-7-3-4-5-6-8.

Explanation of 6.0 powerstroke firing order

The 6.0 Powerstroke engine is a V8 diesel engine with 8 cylinders. The 6.0 Powerstroke V8 engine firing order is 1-2-7-3-4-5-6-8. Visualizing the engine’s cylinder arrangement can help you better understand the firing order. Right-side cylinders are numbered 2-4-6-8, while left-side cylinders are numbered 1-3-5-7.

When you see from the front side you will see that the cylinder is on the left side of the driver. So, with the firing order of 1-2-7-3-4-5-6-8, the sequence in which the cylinders fire is as follows:

  • Cylinder 1 fires, producing a power stroke.
  • Cylinder 2 fires next.
  • Cylinder 7 fires, next.
  • Cylinder 3 fires, Then.
  • Cylinder 4 fires.
  • Cylinder 5 fires.
  • Cylinder 6 fires.
  • Cylinder 8 fires, producing a power stroke.

This sequence repeats over and over as the engine runs, producing the power that propels the vehicle forward. To operate efficiently and smoothly, the firing order must be precisely timed.

Firing order applies to

  • Ford F-250
  • F-350
  • F-450
  • F-550

A lot depends on the type and number of cylinders of an engine when it comes to the firing order. For example, a four-cylinder engine will have a different firing order than an eight-cylinder engine like the 6.0 Powerstroke. It’s always important to use the correct firing order for your specific engine to ensure proper operation and prevent damage.

Torque Specifications 

Fastener TypeTorque Spec
Main cap bolts112 - 157 ft. - lbs
Connecting Rod Bolts 80 ft. - lbs
Rocker Arms Studs78 - 120 ft. - lbs
Oil Pump Bolts Oil Pump Bolt85 ft. - lbs
Cam Sprocket Bolts50 ft. - lbs
Harmonic Damper Bolt30 ft. - lbs

What is the proper timing for the 6.0 Powerstroke engine?

The proper timing for the 6.0 Powerstroke engine is specified by Ford and is typically set to 4 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC) for the camshaft and 1-degree BTDC for the crankshaft. However, it’s important to note that the exact timing specifications may vary depending on the specific year and model of the engine, as well as any modifications that have been made to the engine.

To set the timing on a 6.0 Powerstroke engine, you’ll need to use a timing tool designed specifically for this engine. This tool is used to lock the camshaft and crankshaft in the correct position, allowing you to adjust the timing to the proper specifications.

It’s important to ensure that the timing is set correctly on your 6.0 Powerstroke engine to ensure proper operation and performance. If you don’t follow proper timings you may face various issues, including decreased power and fuel efficiency. If you are not comfortable setting the timing yourself, it’s always best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic who has experience working with this type of engine.

Check Out Ford 5.8 Firing Order

Firing order of similar vehicles

  • Ford F-250
  • Ford F-350
  • Ford F-450
  • Ford F-550
  • Ford E-Series vans (E-350, E-450)
  • Ford Excursion

How often should I check the firing order on my 6.0 Powerstroke engine?

The firing order on a 6.0 Powerstroke engine is set during the manufacturing process and typically does not need to be checked or adjusted under normal operating conditions. However, if you are experiencing issues with engine performance or misfires, it may be necessary to check the firing order as part of your troubleshooting process.

If you are performing routine maintenance on your 6.0 Powerstroke engine, such as changing the spark plugs or performing a tune-up, you may want to check the firing order as a precautionary measure. In general, it’s a good idea to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or maintenance schedule for specific recommendations on when to check the firing order.

What other components can affect the firing order on a 6.0 Powerstroke engine?

There are several components on a 6.0 Powerstroke engine that can affect the firing order, including:

Fuel injectors: 

A faulty or clogged fuel injector can cause misfires and affect the engine’s firing order.

Wiring and connectors:

Faulty wiring or connectors in the engine’s electrical system can cause misfires and affect the engine’s firing order.

Engine control module (ECM):

The ECM is used to control the engine’s firing order. If it malfunctions or has faulty programming, it can cause misfires and affect the engine’s firing order.

Jake Mayock