How much transmission fluid does a 6.0 Powerstroke take?
The automatic transmission in most 6.0 Powerstroke trucks (the 5R110W) holds about 19–20 quarts of fluid when filled from empty. A pan drop with a filter change typically drains roughly 7.5–8 quarts, and you’ll need to add the remaining amount to reach full capacity. A full flush exchanges nearly all of the fluid, using about 19–20 quarts.
In practice, exact figures can vary by year, transmission variant, and service method. The following outlines common capacities and what they mean for maintenance on a 6.0 Powerstroke.
Capacity in practice
Before listing precise numbers, here is a quick reference for typical service scenarios on the 5R110W automatic transmission found in the 6.0 Powerstroke.
- Pan drop with filter change: approximately 7.5–8 quarts drained from the pan.
- Total system capacity (full fill from empty): approximately 19–20 quarts.
- Fluid to add after a pan drop to reach full: about 11–12 quarts.
- Fluid exchanged during a professional flush: about 19–20 quarts.
These figures give a practical framework for planning a service, but always confirm with the vehicle’s dipstick readings and the specific service manual for your year and model.
Practical servicing tips
To avoid mistakes, rely on the exact specification in your owner’s manual or from a Ford service bulletin for your year and transmission variant. The 5R110W in many 6.0 Powerstroke applications commonly uses Ford Mercon V as the ATF specification, but verify for your truck before purchasing fluid.
- Use the correct ATF specification recommended by Ford for your year and transmission.
- Replace the transmission filter and gasket if performing a pan drop.
- Check fluid level with the engine warm and the vehicle in Park/Neutral according to the manual.
- Consider a professional flush if you’re unsure about the procedure or if the transmission shows problems.
Following these guidelines helps ensure proper lubrication and shifting performance after service.
Notes and caveats
Capacities can vary slightly due to differences in pan design, cooling lines, or auxiliary equipment. If you’re unsure about the exact specification for your vehicle, consult the owner’s manual or a Ford dealership service department to confirm the correct fluid type and capacity before starting a service.
Summary
For a 6.0 Powerstroke with the 5R110W transmission, plan on a total fluid capacity of about 19–20 quarts. A pan drop with filter change typically moves about 7.5–8 quarts, requiring roughly 11–12 quarts to reach full. A full flush uses about 19–20 quarts. Always verify with your manual and use the correct ATF specification for your exact year and model.
How many quarts is a 6.0 powerstroke?
A 6.0L Powerstroke engine holds 15 quarts of oil when performing an oil and filter change. This capacity includes both the oil pan and the oil cooler system.
- Oil change procedure: When refilling, remember to remove the oil dipstick to allow for adequate venting and prevent air pockets.
- Oil type: Use a high-quality synthetic diesel engine oil that meets API CJ-4 or the specific Ford specification.
- Filter: Always replace the oil filter during an oil change for optimal filtration and engine protection.
How much transmission fluid does a 2006 F250 hold?
The 2006 F250 transmission fluid capacity depends on the transmission type. The 5R110W 5-speed automatic has a total fill capacity of approximately 19 quarts, while a basic drain and fill requires around 7.5 to 8 quarts. The ZF S6-650 6-speed manual has a total capacity of about 5.5 liters (approximately 5.8 quarts).
Automatic Transmission (5R110W 5-speed)
- Total fill capacity: ~19 quarts
- Drain and fill capacity: ~7.5 to 8 quarts
- Fluid type: Mercon LV ATF (previously Mercon SP)
This video shows a step-by-step guide to flushing a Ford 6.0 transmission: 57sBubbas FabricationYouTube · Jan 25, 2023
Manual Transmission (ZF S6-650 6-speed)
- Total fill capacity: 5.5 liters (approximately 5.8 quarts)
- Fluid type: Mercon V ATF
This video demonstrates how to check the transmission fluid on a Ford Powerstroke Diesel: 35sMartin MarquessYouTube · Aug 22, 2024
How many quarts does a 6L 80 transmission take?
6L80: 12.2 to 12.4 quarts.
What transmission fluid does a 6.0 powerstroke take?
A 6.0 Powerstroke takes Motorcraft MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid for automatic transmissions (5R110W/4R110) and Motorcraft MERCON V for manual transmissions (ZF S6-650). It's important to use the correct fluid for your specific transmission to prevent shifting problems and damage.
For automatic transmissions (5R110W TorqShift)
- Fluid: Motorcraft MERCON LV (Low Viscosity) ATF
- Note: MERCON SP was the original fluid, but it has been superseded by MERCON LV. It is best to use the newer LV fluid, according to xtremediesel.com and this Facebook post.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid on a 6.0L Powerstroke with an automatic transmission: 57sThe Reedy ChroniclesYouTube · Aug 10, 2019
For manual transmissions (ZF S6-650)
- Fluid: Motorcraft MERCON V ATF
- Note: The manual transmission also uses MERCON V for its power steering fluid, notes Sinister Diesel.
Important considerations
- Always use Motorcraft fluids: for best results, as using a different brand can cause shifting problems.
- Manual transmissions use MERCON V, while automatic transmissions use the newer MERCON LV.
- Check your owner's manual: to confirm the specific fluid type for your vehicle.
