sounds like exhaust leak, down on power

[poppapowerstroke]

hey gang. I'm new to the forum, and have been struggling with a problem for four years. 1997 Powerstroke, F350 Crew 4x4 auto. ever since I bought it, it has sounded like it has an exhaust leak. two mechanics say no leaks. turbo whines properly, but when pulling load, won't shift down properly, or the power just doesn't develop. replaced injector o-rings and all glow plugs two years ago, but it is just a dog. also, the transmission has a Banks trans box on it, and when you hammer it (doesn't go any faster, just makes more noise), it shifts from first to second, to third, back to second, third again, then the O/D and convertor drop in. Is it possible that the wastegate is stuck open, dumping pressure? any information will be appreciated immensely. ps, the exhaust sounds like an old Y Block, or AMC 304. Just isn't right. thanks

[justinmix]

Early year 7.3's didn't have a wastgate. They do have an exhaust backpressure valve that is used to choke up the exhaust to warm the engine up in cold weather. Sometimes this will hang up and cause it to run poorly.

Does it sound like an exhaust leak by the firewall? These trucks are notorious for the turbo up pipes to leak, causing low boost and low power. It's usually most noticable when under load like pulling a hill. Get under the truck and take a flashlight and look at the pipes that go from the manifolds to the turbo. Up near the turbo y pipe is where they will leak at. Look for signs of black soot around them.

If these pipes are leaking badly then it won't give the turbo enough exhaust pressure to work properly, causing low power.

[poppapowerstroke]

thanks for the information. I'll crawl under there tomorrow, and see what I can see. my truck also has a pacbrake on it, but I'm not sure it works. also, would that effect my mileage? mine gets only about 14-15 with only a canopy. thanks, again