04' f550 turbo probs

[lvfd404]

First let me apologize if this has already been addressed. I am with a volunteer fire department,we have an 04 f 550 with the 6.0L ps diesel. The vehicle is used as a first response vehicle for medical calls(pretty much an ambulance). This vehicle has 3600 miles. We have extensive turbo problems. To date, ford dealership mechanics have replaced the turbo 4 times. The vehicle sometimes runs like a striped a$$ ape, and other times seems like it will barely move. When the turbos go bad, we have severe power loss and now it seems to be throwing off a greyish smoke. This vehicle has been to the shop over 10 times within 12 months trying to get this problem solved. Been taken to many different dealerships. No one can seem to give a straight answer on why this vehicle acts as it does, and why it goes through so many turbos. If anyone has any information or anything i can tell the service department i would greatly appreciate it. I have been racking my brain for answers but unable to come up with anything.

[mschn99]

i would be questioning the oil feed into the turbo if it was me. there is a silver line that runs from the oil cooler to the top of the turbo......i would be having them replace that as well to see if maybe there is a problem getting lubrication to the turbo........Marc

[suncrest1]

As a first response vehicle I would assume it is driven hard to the call.
Do you shut down the engine as soon as you arive?? if so, maby the turbo is not cooling enough causeing damage to the turbo.

[mschn99]

Originally Posted by suncrest1

As a first response vehicle I would assume it is driven hard to the call.
Do you shut down the engine as soon as you arive?? if so, maby the turbo is not cooling enough causeing damage to the turbo.

]
not to be too particular....but i have seen more turbo problems on the 6.0 from lack of driving hard.........but good point about the shut down........its uncommon on a modern motor, but if it is being run hard enough...it is a good possibility to bring up...........Marc