With a short run from 2008-2010, the 6.4L Ford Powerstroke took a big leap forward from the previous HEUI injection system into what is referred to as common rail injection. The fuel injection system components and control technology were both sourced from Siemens with the K16 high pressure injection pump and piezoelectric fuel injectors. With the 2008 6.4 engine, Ford began using what is now considered industry standard technology and shared by all major diesel engine manufacturers. The 6.4L Powerstroke, like most common rail injection systems, consisted of a low-pressure fuel system, and a high-pressure fuel system. The low-pressure side simply filters, and transfers fuel from the tank to the injection pump, effectively keeping the injection pump’ primed with fuel.

The high-pressure pump, now able to develop 25,000psi in certain conditions, delivers this fuel to two fuel rails, one per bank of injectors. From the rail, the fuel is plumbed to each injector through individual fuel lines, where the waits for a signal to open and inject fuel into the cylinder. The vehicle‘s engine control module (ECM) regulated the pump rail pressure by modulating opening/closing, with both pressure and volume control valves located on the pump. Any excess fuel volume was returned back to the tank.

While Ford was late to join the common rail era, the piezoelectric fuel injectors are still cutting-edge tech, even years later.  These piezoelectric injectors used stacks of crystals on the top of the fuel injector, not slower reacting magnetic solenoids, to actuate the injector. With this technology, the fuel injectors could inject fuel quicker, more precisely, and with more controllable injection events. Often multiple injections per cylinder, per combustion event. All of which was critically important to deliver the horsepower necessary to stay competitive in a tight market and still meet the more stringent emissions requirements.

Whether you are looking to perform routine maintenance with a Motorcraft fuel filter, repair your fuel system with an XDP or Alliant Fuel Contamination kit, or improve your fuel system with an upgraded Lift Pump, XDP has your 6.4 Power Stroke Fuel System covered.