How to Change the Oil Filter on a 2006 Powerstroke

The 2006 Ford 6.0-liter Powerstroke V-8 was a turbo-diesel engine offered in a variety of 2006 Ford trucks and vans. The 2006 Ford F-250 through F-550 trucks offered the Powerstroke as an optional engine. The 2006 E-250 through E-450 line of vans offered the same. The 2006 6.0-liter Powerstroke was equipped with an internal cartridge style filter. A special tool is needed for removal and installation of this filter. The 2006 6.0-liter Powerstroke oil filter should only be replaced during oil changes, when the oil pan drain plug is removed.

Things You'll Need

• 3/8-inch-drive ratchet
• 3/8-inch-drive, 3-inch extension
• 3/8-inch-drive internal oil filter tool
• New oil filter
• Small amount of fresh diesel oil

Instructions

1. Open the hood on the 2006 Ford truck or van. Locate the filter on the upper driver's side of the engine. The filter housing has a six-sided protrusion on the top for removal and installation. Loosen the oil filter housing cap, using a ratchet, extension and internal oil filter tool. Allow the filter housing to drain for 10 to 30 seconds after opening to allow the oil to drain from the housing through the built-in oil drain valve.

2. Remove the oil filter housing lid with the attached oil filter. Slide a rag beneath the filter as soon as it is out of the housing to catch falling oil. Remove the filter from the engine compartment.

3. Inspect the large O-ring gasket attached to the oil filter housing lid. If the O-ring has any cracks or breaks in it, replace with a new one. The O-rings usually come with new cartridge filters but should only be changed if necessary. Lubricate the filter cap O-ring with fresh diesel motor oil to assist in sealing the cap on the housing.

4. Install the new oil filter onto the cap by hand. Insert the oil filter lid onto the filter housing vertically, so that the oil filter goes straight into the middle of the housing. Thread the cap by hand to begin the installation to ensure proper threading. Tighten the cap with your ratchet, extension and filter tool until the cap is snug.

Tips & Warnings

• The oil drain plug must be removed to change the cartridge oil filter. If the drain plug is not removed, the oil filter housing will not drain properly, defeating the purpose of the oil filter change.

References

• Alldata: 2006 Ford F-Series and E-Series, Powerstroke 6.0-liter Oil Filter Replacement Instructions