What is the difference between Ford 6.7 and 6.7 high output?

The High Output version is a more powerful variant of Ford's 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, offering higher horsepower and torque than the standard 6.7; it uses upgraded turbocharging, fueling, and calibration and is aimed at heavier-duty towing and payload. Exact figures vary by model year and configuration.

The question centers on how Ford tunes and packages the same 6.7-liter diesel for different uses in the Super Duty lineup. While the core engine block and displacement stay the same, the High Output (HO) version represents a performance-oriented option that Ford reserves for certain heavy-duty setups. Below is a focused look at what changes, why they matter, and where they apply.

Overview of the 6.7 Power Stroke

The 6.7L Power Stroke is Ford’s turbodiesel V8 used in the Super Duty lineup (F-Series heavy-duty trucks). Across generations, Ford has refreshed the engine with updates to boost power, torque, and reliability for demanding towing and payload tasks. The standard 6.7 configuration serves a broad range of duties, while the High Output variant is specifically designed for maximum capability in heavy-duty applications.

What makes the High Output version different?

Below are the main areas where the High Output variant diverges from the standard 6.7 configuration. These differences focus on performance, durability, and how the engine is tuned to work with the truck’s drivetrain for heavy-duty use.

• Power and torque output: HO is tuned to deliver higher horsepower and torque figures, improving acceleration under load and boosting peak towing performance.


• Turbocharging and intake: HO typically uses upgraded turbocharging hardware and boost control to support the increased air flow necessary for higher output.


• Fuel system and injection: HO employs enhanced fuel delivery (pressure and control) to sustain the higher power output without compromising reliability.


• Engine calibration and supporting systems: HO calibration optimizes timing, rail pressure, cooling, and exhaust management to maintain performance under heavy-duty conditions.


• Availability and model-year coverage: The High Output designation appears on specific trims or configurations and is not offered on every model year or market. Availability depends on the truck’s build and options.

Concluding note: For buyers and operators, the HO variant is intended for the most demanding work—maximizing towing capacity and payload handling—while the standard 6.7L Power Stroke provides robust performance for everyday heavy-duty use. Always verify the exact specification for a given truck year and trim with Ford or a dealer, as numbers and packages can change over time.

Practical implications for owners and shoppers

When shopping forsused or new Super Duty trucks, knowing whether the engine is the standard 6.7 or HO can influence towing ratings, fuel economy expectations, maintenance planning, and resale value. HO-equipped trucks may carry a premium and require confidence in cooling, transmission pairing, and aftermarket support for sustained heavy-duty work.

Bottom line

Summary: Ford’s 6.7L Power Stroke High Output is the performance-tuned version of the standard 6.7 diesel, engineered to deliver more horsepower and torque through upgraded turbocharging, fueling, and calibration. It targets heavy-duty towing and high-load applications, while the standard 6.7L remains a capable baseline. Exact outputs and availability vary by model year and configuration, so consult Ford’s official specs for precise numbers.

Is the 6.7 Power Stroke high output worth it?

More than just the normal 67. But it does futureproof your your truck. So if you ever down the line you need to tow that extra little bit of weight. You will be able to with that 67 high output.

What year did the 6.7 high output come out?

The high output (HO) 6.7L Power Stroke engine with 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque was introduced for the 2023 model year. The standard 6.7L Power Stroke debuted in 2011, and since then, its power has increased through various updates over the years.
 

• 2011: The 6.7L Power Stroke engine was first introduced with 390 hp and 735 lb-ft of torque, though it was quickly updated to 400 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque for the 2012 model year. 
• 2015: The engine gained a new turbocharger for an increase in power and torque. 
• 2017: Ford updated the engine to increase its power and torque output. 
• 2023: The high output version was introduced, producing 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. 

How to tell if a 6.7 Power Stroke is high output?

You can tell if a 6.7L Power Stroke is a high-output (HO) engine by its 6.7L badge is red, which is a visual cue on newer models. The HO engine also has a slightly different power output (500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft of torque for the 2023 model) compared to the standard output (475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque).
 
This video explains how to identify a high output engine by the color of the badge: 32sHitched To HorsepowerYouTube · Aug 11, 2023
Identification

• Red badge: Look for a red "6.7L" badge on the side of the truck, as this is a direct indicator of the high-output version. 
• Engine specifications: Check the vehicle's documentation or specifications. A high-output engine is advertised with a higher horsepower and torque rating, such as 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft of torque, compared to the standard engine's 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. 

This video explains the difference in power output between the two engines: 58sHunt Ford ChryslerYouTube · Apr 13, 2023
Performance and internal differences

• Power and torque: The HO has a more powerful tune, resulting in higher horsepower and torque, which is most noticeable when towing heavy loads, especially on inclines. 
• Internal upgrades: The HO version includes internal upgrades like a stainless steel exhaust manifold and upgraded turbocharger cooling components to handle the increased power. 

What is a high output F250?

6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel Engine
Horsepower: 500 hp. Torque: 1,200 lb-ft of torque. Transmission: TorqShift®-G 10-speed Automatic transmission. Drivetrain: Standard 2-wheel drive; available 4-wheel drive.