How much transmission fluid does a F250 diesel hold?
For most Ford F-250 Super Duty models with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and a TorqShift automatic, the system’s total transmission fluid capacity sits around 15–16 quarts (roughly 14–15 liters). A simple pan drain/refill typically exchanges about 8–10 quarts, while a full system flush or complete replacement that includes the torque converter and cooler lines generally requires about 15–16 quarts.
Capacity overview
Below is a practical breakdown of common service scenarios and their typical fluid quantities. Exact numbers can vary slightly by year, exact transmission variant, and whether the torque converter or cooler lines are included in the service.
- Pan drain and refill (no torque converter drain): about 8–10 quarts
- Full transmission replacement or refill (pan removed, filter replaced, and lines flushed): about 15–16 quarts
- Complete system flush (including cooler lines and torque converter): about 15–16 quarts
These figures provide a general guide for planning maintenance, but always confirm with the specific owner’s manual or a Ford service bulletin for your model year and transmission configuration.
Factors that affect capacity
The exact fluid capacity can vary depending on several factors tied to your truck’s year and configuration. Understanding these helps ensure you use the right quantity during maintenance.
- Transmission model and year: Ford’s 6R140 TorqShift automatic in most 2008+ Super Duty trucks has a slightly different capacity than other heavy-duty variants.
- Presence of external cooler lines: Additional cooler loop capacity may add a small amount of fluid volume to fill after service.
- Torque converter drain: If the converter is drained during service (common in a full flush or converter replacement), capacity increases by the fluid stored in the converter.
- Filter replacement: Replacing the internal transmission filter adds a small incremental amount of fluid that must be added to bring the level to spec.
In practice, most owners notice that the range above covers typical service scenarios, but precise figures depend on the exact build and service method used.
Checking and performing fluid service: practical guidance
When planning a fluid change or a routine check, follow these general steps to ensure proper level and fluid condition. The following is a common approach, but always verify against your vehicle’s manual.
- Ensure the engine and transmission are at operating temperature and the vehicle is on a level surface.
- Use the correct transmission fluid as specified by Ford for the 6.7L Power Stroke, typically Mercon LV or Ford-approved equivalent.
- For a pan drain/refill: drain the old fluid, replace the filter, reinstall the pan, and add new fluid gradually to reach the proper level.
- For a full flush: use the appropriate flush equipment and expect to use roughly 15–16 quarts to bring the system to the correct level.
- Check the level with the dipstick according to the manual’s instructions, ensuring the fluid is within the recommended marks at the correct temperature.
Maintenance should be performed by qualified personnel if you’re uncertain about the procedure or the vehicle’s exact transmission configuration.
Summary
The Ford F-250 diesel, equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke and TorqShift automatic, typically holds about 15–16 quarts of transmission fluid in total. A pan drain/refill usually exchanges 8–10 quarts, while a full flush or complete replacement requires roughly the same 15–16 quarts, influenced by year, transmission variant, and whether the torque converter and cooler lines are included. Always consult the owner’s manual or a Ford service specialist for the precise specification for your exact truck and to follow the recommended maintenance interval.
