The steps of replacing the high-pressure oil pump in 7.3 L are not that difficult.
- Prepare the steps for replacement by draining the engine oil
- Access the HPOP by removing the fuel filter assembly removing the pigtail connection
- Remove the old high-pressure oil pump by taking out the nuts and bolts connected to it
- Prepare and install the new high-pressure oil pump
- Finalize the installation by performing an oil change to make sure that the HPOP gets clean and fresh oil
Therefore, 7.3 High-Pressure Oil Pump replacement is relatively easy if you follow the basic steps. But do you even need it? To find this out and the overall steps of replacement, let’s get started.
Why Should You Replace The 7.3 HPOP?
There are several reasons why you might need to replace the HPOP:
Wear and tear:
Over time, the internal components of the HPOP can wear out due to the high pressures and constant operation. This can lead to a decrease in performance and, in some cases, complete failure.
Leakage:
Oil leaks around the HPOP can occur, causing a loss of pressure in the system. This can result in poor engine performance and efficiency.
Inadequate Pressure:
If the HPOP fails to maintain the necessary high oil pressure, it can lead to poor fuel injection, reduced power, and decreased fuel efficiency.
No-Start Condition:
A failing HPOP can prevent the engine from starting altogether, as it won’t be able to build up the required high-pressure oil to activate the injectors.
Warning Lights or Codes:
Modern vehicles are equipped with diagnostic systems that can detect issues with the HPOP. If your vehicle’s onboard computer detects a problem, it may trigger warning lights or diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), indicating the need for HPOP replacement.
Do I Need to Replace the Oil Pump in the 7.3 L Powerstroke Engine?
If you are looking to replace your 7.3 high-pressure oil pump, then chances are your engine oil is leaking. We understand the frustration, but before you jump right in to replace the pump, you need to go through a few steps.
Firstly, grab the OBD2 scanner and monitor the specific variables like ICP Pressure and IPR duty cycle in the engine. Find out if the data is abnormal or not. Check this article on ICP Pressure Sensor symptoms and replacement process to get a clear idea.
After that, if the oil leak persists, then check the main source of the leak. It can be anything that needs to be fixed or sealed back. In fact, some parts of the High-Pressure Oil Pump, such as the drain cocks and the o-ring plugs, are repairable.
Keep in mind that oil leaks in diesel engines are relatively common, especially in older models. But you need to be alarmed if the oil leak is leading to drastic oil level changes. In that case, either seal the source of the leak or replace the high-pressure oil pump.
7.3 High Pressure Oil Pump Replacement Process DIY
If you are experienced in DIY work, replacing the high-pressure oil pump in 7.3 L is going to be easy for you. Following are the steps for replacing a high-pressure oil pump in a 7.3 L Powerstroke engine.
Tools Required:
- 13mm deep well socket
- 13mm socket
- 3/16 inches Allen wrench
- 8mm deep or normal socket with an extension
- 10mm socket
- 18mm socket
- 29mm extended deep well socket
- Quick disconnect tool for high-pressure oil lines
Step 1: Drain the Engine Oil and Prepare the Vehicle
Begin by draining the engine oil to prevent debris from damaging the new oil pump. Follow this by safely raising and supporting the vehicle to provide easy access to the components.
Step 2: Access the High-Pressure Oil Pump
Remove the cover (commonly referred to as the Power Stroke cover) to gain access to the high-pressure oil pump.
Step 3: Disconnect Electrical Components
Disconnect the pigtail connected to the high-pressure oil pump to ensure safe removal.
Step 4: Remove Mounting Bolts
Locate and remove the two bolts that secure the high-pressure oil pump to its mounting bracket.
Step 5: Access the Back Pressure Sensor Bracket
Next, locate the bracket holding the back pressure sensor and remove it. Beneath this bracket, you’ll find a nut holding the tube for the feedback sensor. Remove both the bracket and the nut to access the pump’s connection to the gear.
Step 6: Secure the Engine from Turning
To prevent the engine from turning while working on the pump, use a socket and a breaker bar to stabilize it.
Step 7: Remove the Pump Bolt and Washer
Carefully remove the bolt securing the high-pressure oil pump to the gear. Ensure that the washer comes off simultaneously to avoid misplacement.
Step 8: Remove the Old Pump
Gently slide the old high-pressure oil pump out of the gallery, ensuring that the gasket comes off with it to prevent double gasketing.
Step 9: Install New Components
If you are replacing the pressure sensor, install it on the new pump before proceeding.
Step 10: Prepare the New Oil Pump
Place the new gasket in position on the new oil pump and connect the high-pressure oil pump lines.
Step 11: Reinstall the New Oil Pump
Slide the new oil pump into the gallery and secure it with the two bolts at the back.
Step 12: Reattach High-Pressure Oil Lines
Reattach the high-pressure oil pump lines using the quick disconnect tool for ease and precision.
Step 13: Reattach Bracket and Pump
Reattach the bracket on the back of the pump, followed by securing the pump onto the gear with the nut and washer.
Step 14: Apply New Gasket Material
Clean the gasket material off the cover and the mounting surface. Apply new gasket material to ensure a proper seal when reassembling.
Step 15: Reinstall Cover and Other Components
Reinstall the cover (Power Stroke cover) and reassemble the fuel filter housing assembly, back pressure sensor, and any other components you removed during the process.
Step 16: Perform an Oil Change
Before starting the engine, perform an oil change to ensure the new high-pressure oil pump receives clean, fresh oil, following proper oil change procedures.
Step 17: Final Checks
- Double-check that all connections are tight and secure.
- Confirm that all bolts are properly torqued to specifications.
- Ensure all pigtails and connectors are in place.
- Verify that there are no oil leaks.
Step 18: Test and Start the Engine
Once everything is in order, start the engine to ensure proper operation.
Apart from this, you can always try professional servicing. But keep in mind that it will cost you around $400 to $1000 to get the oil pump removed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, replacing the high-pressure oil pump in the 7.3 L engine is easy if you don’t mind any DIY work. But if you are stuck with a leaking engine oil, then the best bet for you is to stop everything, tow your car to a servicing station, and get it checked as soon as possible.
Last Updated on October 14, 2023 by Rifen
