FICM Installation Ford Powerstroke 7.3L - 6.0L

Ford introduced the 6.0-liter Power Stroke V-8 in 2003, as a new and purportedly better replacement for the 7.3. Both engines used electronic fuel injection, but while the 1994-2003 7.3 was controlled by an injector control module, or ICM, the new 6.0L engine used a new unit called the fuel injection control module, or FICM. All 6.0L Power Stroke engines built from 2003 until 2010 use a FICM, but not all FICMs are the same. Ford used both four-pin and seven-pin designs; the differences are internal, however, and both types will work on any 6.0L Power Stroke.

The FICM has been a source of problems for owners of the 6.0. The most common complaints involve hard starting and poor cold-weather starting. Other issues that can be traced back to a cranky FICM are loss of power, excessive smoking, rough idle, and, of course, not starting at all. If you have experienced these problems with your 6.0L Ford, it could mean you have a weak or failing FICM module. The solution is to replace the FICM. We use Alliant Power Brand all Alliant Brand FICM units are are preflashed and ae ready to install.

What Kills A FICM?

• Ford and other sources warn that weak batteries or alternators supplying insufficient voltage can result in premature FICM death. The FICM’s job is to step up voltage for the injectors. Low input voltage causes excessive heat inside the FICM, which can lead to failure.

FICM APPLICATION

• Ford used the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel V-8 in the 2003-2007 F-Super Duty trucks, the 2003-2005 Excursion and the 2004-2010 E-350 and E-450. The FICM is essentially the same for each of these applications. This FICM is also used on the NAVISTAR VT365 and LCF 4.5L V-6 diesel engines.

Follow along and we’ll show how you remove the FICM on your Ford 6.0L

1. The FICM on this F-350 is mounted over the driver’s side valve cover. Before taking the FICM out of the truck, remove the service cover and do a diagnostic test (as outlined in the truck’s service manual) to see if it’s actually bad

2. A simple voltmeter is all that’s needed to do the initial testing of the FICM. If it tests bad, remove it. If not, look for other issues that could be causing the trouble

• Note: The cover plate is removed from the top of the FICM. Normally, the cover is removed for under-hood testing; we recommend replacing it before removing the FICM in order to prevent damage.

3. After disconnecting the battery, the FICM can be unbolted and unplugged for removal

4. Your new Alliant Power FICM is installed in reverse order of removal. The unit should provide you with years of service.

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