2017-2022 Ford Superduty Engine Guide: The WorkHorse of Engines
The 4th-generation Ford Super Duty (2017–2022) ushered in major advancements in towing, durability, and refinement. With an aluminum body, stronger frames, and improved powertrains, these trucks were engineered for serious work — and serious longevity.
This guide explores the three primary engines of the era:
- 6.2L SOHC Gas V8 (carryover)
- 7.3L Pushrod “Godzilla” V8
- 6.7L Powerstroke Diesel V8 (2nd Gen)
Whether you’re hauling, upgrading, or shopping — this breakdown has you covered.
Gas Engine: 6.2L SOHC V8 (Carryover)
Overview
- Displacement: 6.2L / 379 cu in
- Power: 385 hp @ 5,750 RPM
- Torque: 430 lb-ft @ 3,800 RPM
- Fuel Type: Regular unleaded
- Transmission: 6-speed TorqShift → 10-speed TorqShift (later years)
Key Features
- Cast-iron block with aluminum heads
- Roller rocker arms, hydraulic lifters
- Proven durability over millions of units
Strengths
- Excellent reliability and low maintenance
- Great fleet/commercial choice
- Simple to service and inexpensive to own
Weaknesses
- Lacks low-end torque for heavy towing
- Starting to feel dated compared to newer options
Reliability & Maintenance
- Life Expectancy: 250,000–300,000+ miles
- Known Issues: Occasional cam phaser tick
- Ideal Use: Government, construction, and budget-conscious haulers
Gas Engine: 7.3L Pushrod “Godzilla” V8 (New for 2020)
Overview
- Displacement: 7.3L / 445 cu in
- Power: 430 hp @ 5,500 RPM
- Torque: 475 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM
- Fuel Type: Regular unleaded
- Transmission: 10-speed TorqShift
Key Features
- Overhead valve (OHV) pushrod design
- Cast-iron block, forged steel crank
- Hydraulic roller lifters, VVT
- Designed for ease of service and big torque
Strengths
- Best-in-class gas towing performance
- Simpler than OHC designs — fewer parts, easier service
- Massive aftermarket support and swap potential
Weaknesses
- Lower RPM range than OHC engines
- Slightly heavier than 6.2L
Reliability & Maintenance
- Life Expectancy: 300,000–400,000+ miles
- Known Issues: Very few reported; strong bottom end
- Ideal Use: RV upfits, plow trucks, high-mileage fleet and personal towing
Diesel Engine: 6.7L Power Stroke V8 (2nd Gen)
2017–2019 Version
- Power: 440 hp @ 2,800 RPM
- Torque: 925 lb-ft @ 1,800 RPM
- Turbo: Single-sequential VGT
- Injection: Bosch CP4.2 common-rail
2020+ Version (Refreshed)
- Power: 475 hp @ 2,600 RPM
- Torque: 1,050 lb-ft @ 1,800 RPM
- Turbo: Larger ball-bearing VGT
- Injection: CP4.2 (refined), upgraded injectors
- Other Upgrades: New steel pistons, stronger heads, improved cooling
Key Features
- Reverse-flow head design
- Lightweight CGI block
- Exceptionally quiet and refined for a diesel
Strengths
- Dominant towing capability
- High durability and low NVH
- Strong support for tuning and performance mods
Weaknesses
- CP4.2 pump is a known failure point (especially pre-2020)
- Expensive to service out-of-warranty
Reliability & Maintenance
- Life Expectancy: 400,000+ miles
- Known Issues: CP4 pump failures (mitigated in 2020+), sensor failures
- Ideal Use: Heavy towing, RV hauling, commercial fleets
Dyno Output Summary
Maintenance Schedule Comparison
What Made the 4th Gen Special?
1. Aluminum Body Panels
- ~350 lbs lighter than steel
- Rust-resistant and dent-tolerant
- Same grade used in military vehicles
2. High-Strength Steel Frame
- 95% high-tensile steel
- Fully boxed rails
- Improved ride and max payload
3. Smart Towing Tech
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist
- Trailer Reverse Guidance
- Trailer Sway Control
- Adaptive Steering (Lariat+)
Modifications & Tuning Insights
Gas Engines
- Cold air intake + throttle body spacer
- Performance PCM tuning
- Long-tube headers / cat-back exhaust
Diesel Engines
- Turbo upgrades (especially 2017–19)
- CP4-to-CP3 conversion kits
- Intercooler & charge pipe upgrades
- Tuning (emissions-compliant options available)
Note: Some mods affect emissions compliance. Check local laws before installation.
Final Thoughts
Ford’s 2017–2022 Super Duty lineup raised the bar across all categories — power, capability, and innovation. Whether you need a reliable fleet motor, a towing monster, or a gas-powered torque machine, this generation delivers.
Best Gas for Work: 6.2L — low cost, proven
Best Gas for Towing & Longevity: 7.3L Godzilla
Best All-Around Diesel: 2020+ 6.7L Power Stroke
With modern features and serious backbone, the 4th-gen Super Duty continues to dominate work sites, ranches, and tow lanes nationwide.
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