What engine is in a 1983 Ford F250?
The 1983 Ford F-250 did not rely on a single engine. Depending on the trim, cab, and whether it was a standard or heavy-duty configuration, these trucks could be equipped with several gasoline engines—and later years introduced diesel options for some models. To know the exact engine in a specific truck, you’ll need the VIN or build documentation.
In 1983, Ford offered a range of powerplants for the F-250 line, with gasoline engines forming the core of most configurations. The exact engine depended on the vehicle’s intended use, option package, and market. Below is a high-level look at the common engine options you might encounter on a 1983 F-250 and how to verify what a particular truck uses.
Gasoline engine options
The following list summarizes gasoline-powered options that were commonly available for 1983 F-250 models. Availability varied by trim level and configuration, so not every truck had every option.
- 4.9L inline-six (commonly referred to as the 300 I6)
- 5.0L V8 (the Windsor family, often labeled as a 302)
- 5.8L V8 (351W Windsor)
- 6.6L V8 (a larger V8 option used on some heavier-duty configurations)
Because engine offerings varied by market and build, not every 1983 F-250 came with all of these engines. Always confirm the exact engine via the vehicle's VIN, door sticker, or factory documentation.
Diesel option
Diesel power became available on some F-Series heavy-duty trucks in the mid-1980s. The diesel option most commonly associated with this era is the 6.9L IDI (indirect-injected) V8, which was offered on many Ford trucks starting in the mid-1980s and continued through the early 1990s. Early 1983 F-250 models were predominantly gasoline, with diesels becoming more common in later model years and certain fleet configurations.
- 6.9L IDI inline-6 diesel (introduced mid-1980s and used through the early 1990s)
Again, exact availability depends on the specific truck and its equipment package. If you’re evaluating a particular 1983 F-250, check the VIN for the engine code or consult the original window sticker/build sheet to be certain.
How to identify the engine in your 1983 F-250
To confirm the engine in a specific 1983 F-250, use these steps: locate the VIN on the driver’s side dash or door jamb, pull the build sheet or window sticker if available, and cross-check the engine code or option list with Ford’s historical data. If you don’t have documentation, the engine itself (spark plugs, exhaust manifolds, and intake markings) can sometimes reveal the family, but VIN-based verification is the most reliable method.
In short, a 1983 Ford F-250 could be equipped with several gasoline engines, with diesel options more commonly appearing in later years. The exact engine for any given truck is determined by its factory configuration, so verifying via VIN/build sheets is the best practice.
Summary
For the 1983 Ford F-250, there wasn’t a single engine to rely on. Most trucks used gasoline options including a 4.9L inline-six, 5.0L and 5.8L V8s, and some heavy-duty models offered a larger 6.6L V8. Diesel options (notably the 6.9L IDI) appeared in later mid-1980s models. Always verify the exact engine with the vehicle’s VIN or original documentation to avoid assumptions about a specific truck’s powerplant.
If you have a specific truck in mind, sharing the VIN or a photo of the engine and door sticker can help provide a precise identification of the engine installed in that 1983 F-250.
What year to avoid F-250?
2006 Ford F-250: This model is known to unexpectedly stall or shut down while the truck is in motion, which can lead to a loss of power steering and brakes. Furthermore, throttle body issues result in unplanned acceleration or delayed response when pressing on the brakes and also has the death wobble.
What is a 1983 Ford F250 worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $16,425 for a 1983 Ford F-250 3/4 Ton in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1983 Ford F-250 3/4 Ton? The highest selling price of a 1983 Ford F-250 3/4 Ton at auction over the last three years was $31,900.
What engines were available in the 1983 Ford F 150?
It came with multiple engine options, including a 300 cubic inch (4.9L) inline-six, a 351 cubic inch (5.8L) V8, and a 400 cubic inch (6.6L) V8, delivering strong power for various tasks. Transmission choices included a 4- speed manual and 3-speed automatic, paired with a part-time four-wheel-drive system.
What engine does my Ford F250 have in it?
6.2L 2-Valve SOHC Flex Fuel V8.
