1994.5–1998 FORD F-250 AND F-350 7.3L POWER STROKE

Even though it’s been more than 10 years since production stopped, the legendary 7.3L Power Stroke found in F-250 and F-350 trucks is still a Blue Oval fan favorite. It was introduced mid-model year, along with a turbocharged and naturally aspirated version of the 7.3L IDI.

It’s been argued that the 7.3L Power Stroke design is somewhat based on the design of the IDI, but the engines are completely different in operation and only share the 7.3L displacement. The 7.3L enjoys plenty of aftermarket support and can make ridiculous torque with the right combination of parts. It’s not unusual for a 7.3L Power Stroke to run for 500,000 miles or more without requiring an overhaul. For many owners who properly maintain their vehicles, the 7.3L Power Stroke is a million-mile motor.

The pre-super Duty F-250s 4x4s featured twin-traction beam suspension. It works kind of like independent suspension and provides a slightly smoother ride over rough roads than a similar solid axle truck. Twin-traction beam suspension systems are typically less durable than a solid axle suspension, and the twinram traction beam design inherently causes increased tire wear and strange handling in some situations. The good news is that swapping in an F-350 solid front axle from the same era is pretty much a bolt-in swap.

A whole slew of suspension, axle, steering, interior and exterior upgrades are available for the 1994.5–1998 Ford Power Stroke trucks. If it exists and it’s been built for a pickup truck, there’s likely an application that fits the pre-super Duty F-series.

ENGINE: NAVISTAR T444E 7.3L V-8

ASPIRATION: DIRECT-INJECTED, SINGLE TURBO

OUTPUT: 1994.5–1998: 215 HP @3,000 RPM, 425 LB-FT @1,600 RPM