4 Symptoms to Detect a Bad IPR Valve on 6.0L Powerstroke
The sole purpose of the IPR valve is to regulate the pressure present in the oil circuit with high pressure exceeding 3000 PSI.
Over time, it can go bad. So, you need to be aware of the 6.0 Powerstroke IPR valve symptoms to take action quickly.
In this article, I have tried to unveil all possible situations you may face with a bad 6.0 Powerstroke IPR valve in the Ford engine.
Signs of A Bad 6.0 Powerstroke IPR valve? Experiencing unstable, rough, or poor idling is an important sign of a bad IPR valve. You will notice that the tachometer is jumping around without any other reason. As a result, there won’t be a steady rotation rate.
Now, let’s see some other symptoms to suspect a bad IPR in the 6.0 Powerstroke engine.
Symptoms to Detect a Bad IPR Valve on 6.0L Powerstroke:
While gathering information about how to detect a bad 6.0 Powerstroke IPR valve, I have come across some notations that you might not understand.
So, I tried to simplify them and describe the symptoms below. Let’s check them out.
1. Stalling Engine
Whenever your Ford stalls, you can primarily suspect an IPR valve. After running some diagnoses, it is possible to tell for sure.
Suddenly, the engine stops working and tuning out of nowhere. It can be dangerous and very stressful.
I am saying dangerous because the problem can occur in the middle of a busy highway.
That is why you should check the engine performance from time to time, and make sure that every part is working fine.
2. Not Starting the Engine
Seeing the engine cranking but not starting is another bad 6.0 Powerstroke IPR valve symptom.
Know that it can happen also because of no fuel in the tank. After eliminating that possibility, you can raise your fingers at the IPR valve.
Facing other similar problems mentioned in this article alongside the engine-not-starting issue, you will certainly know who is the culprit.
Another situation mentioned by the complainers is cranking for a long time before getting started.
Any problem at starting should be diagnosed by IPR valve test.
3. Surging Injectors
Happening randomly or while accelerating, injector surging indicates a bad IPR valve. In this case, take the engine straight to your local mechanic.
Let me give you an example. Let’s assume that you are towing a large trailer down the hill.
After reaching the bottom, hitting the 4th gear, you may feel a sudden jerk. The engine may die right away or some steps further.
It happens because of the IPR valve’s failure at handling high oil pressure all of a sudden.
The valve screen may get clogged and not working. Doing the ICP graph test, you will see that the readings are lower than normal.
Furthermore, an air leak test will reveal a not working or responding IPR valve.
Read Also: What is P0541 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke & How To Fix?
4. Basic Tests
Indeed, a thorough checkup at the servicing shops is enough to find the culprit. But you can do some tests of your own before spending anything.
Take the valve covers off, and pressurize the whole system before thinking of any replacement in the HPO parts.
When you detect a leak, it can be an injector, an O-ring, or the pump itself.
Try reversing the connection to the IPR valve while doing the testing.
Pro Tip: If you are facing a problem even after changing the IPR valve couple of times, you will only by solving the symptom and not the problem. Because a new IPR won’t go bad quickly unless there are some external issues.
Read Also: 4 Symptoms To Detect Low Fuel Pressure On 6.0 Powerstroke
What to Do When You Detect A Bad IPR Valve on a 6.0L Powerstroke?
In two ways, you can deal with a bad IPR valve. Either repair the leak or replace the whole part.
For the first option, you have to check the engine performance first and decide accordingly. Let me explain in simple steps.
With the Key ‘ON’ and engine ‘OFF’, check the engine cranking values.
The normal or minimum duty cycle of the IPR starts at 15% when it is fully open. In the fully closed condition, it should read up to 85%.
Any reading greater than 30% at the start means that there is a leak.
In that case, you can inspect the IPR and see whether the leak is repairable. Otherwise, change the whole thing straight away.
Another cause can be not moving its duty cycle from 15% after increasing ICP to 2000 PSI. here, you can use the Ford service kit and replace the O-Rings as well as the mesh screen on the nose.
For the second option, you know what to do. Have a mechanic take care of it if you can’t replace it with your own.
Read Also: 4 Symptoms To Detect A Weak Fuel Pump On 7.3 Powerstroke
Is Replacing A Bad IPR Valve on a 6.0L Powerstroke Typically Expensive?
It costs almost 200 bucks to buy a new replacement. So, you can consider it a bit pricy. The price can vary from dealer to dealer.
The one I have suggested is a genuine OEM IPR valve for 6.0L Powerstroke 9/23/2003 and newer models.
That is the only cost of the part. You need to add more to the budget for installation. However, doing it yourself can save a lot.
There are plenty of online videos showing how to replace the part properly. Just make sure that you have the right tools for the job, and you are all set.
Read Also: 5 Symptoms To Detect ICP Sensor Failure On 7.3 Powerstroke
How Often Should You Inspect or Service the IPR Valve of Your 6.0L Powerstroke?
It is hard to tell how often you should change the IPR valve of your 6.0 Powerstroke engine.
You have read and known how to detect a bad 6.0 Powerstroke IPR valve.
After noticing any of the signs, you should replace the part. In some engines, it can go for 100k miles or more.
On the other hand, it is possible that the valve needs your attention a lot earlier.
Final Thoughts
Regulating injection pressure up to 26000 PSI is no joke. No matter how strong the valve or premium parts you install, they are bound to go bad after a certain time.
The best way to tackle the issue is by being prepared. I hope that knowing the 6.0 Powerstroke IPR valve symptoms would help be alert.
Read Also: 6.0L Powerstroke Bad Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor Symptoms?
