Powerstroke 6.4L Fluid Capacities

The 6.4L Powerstroke engine has an oil capacity of about 15 quarts (14.2 liters), which is considerable and reflects the robust nature of this heavy-duty engine. When changing the oil filter, you will still require the same amount of oil (15 quarts) since the filtering system only slightly affects the 6.4 Ford engine’s oil capacity.

The recommended types of oil vary according to temperature conditions:

  • 15W-40 oil is suitable for temperatures over 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.7 degrees Celsius).
  • 10W-30 oil is ideal for operating temperatures between 0 and 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-17.8 and -6.7 degrees Celsius).
  • 5W-40 oil will provide the best performance for operating temperatures between minus 20 and 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-28.9 and -6.7 degrees Celsius).

Using high-quality synthetic oil helps maintain engine health and performance, especially under extreme conditions. Remember, it’s best practice to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the 6.4 Powerstroke oil capacity. Overfilling or underfilling can lead to serious engine issues. Always check your dipstick after refilling and aim for the middle of the acceptable range on the dipstick.

Fluid Type Application Fluid Capacity Service Interval Fluid Spec Notes
Engine Oil F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty, 6.4L Eng w/Filter 15.00 QTS. 10,000 miles/6 months under normal operating conditions
5,000 miles/6 months under severe duty conditions		 SAE 10W-30 Super Duty Diesel Motor Oil or equivalent, SAE 15W-40 Super Duty Diesel Motor Oil Blue Diamond PAO Synthetic 5W-40
Blue Diamond PAO Synthetic 10W-30
Green Diamond Synthetic 5W-40
Green Diamond Synthetic 10W-30

Above 20°F ……….15W-40
Above -0°F ……….10W-30
Above -20°F ……….5W-40
Fuel Tank F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty, 6.75 FT. Bed Length 29.00 GALS. — Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Use Diesel Extreme every 6,000 miles and Everyday Diesel Treatment with every fill up. For additional lubricity, LX4 Lubricity Extreme may be used. In freezing temperatures, switch from Everyday Diesel Treatment to Diesel Winter Anti-Gel for protection against fuel gelling.
F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty, 8 FT. Bed Length 38.00 GALS. — Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Use Diesel Extreme every 6,000 miles and Everyday Diesel Treatment with every fill-up. For additional lubricity, LX4 Lubricity Extreme may be used. In freezing temperatures, switch from Everyday Diesel Treatment to EDT+ Winter Defense for protection against fuel gelling.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Trans Mfr CD 5R110W TorqShift 7.4 QTS. 30,000 miles MOTORCRAFT Automatic Transmission Fluid MERCON SP BLUE DIAMOND ATF+4/DEXRON III/MERCON V (+4/D3/M5)

MERCON, MERCON V and MERCON SP are not interchangeable. DO NOT mix MERCON, MERCON V and MERCON SP. Approximate dry capacity including transmission fluid cooling system, actual refill capacities will vary based on vehicle application and transmission fluid cooling system. The amount of transmission fluid and fluid level should be set by the indication on the dipstick’s normal operating range.
Brake Fluid — — — MOTORCRAFT High Performance DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid Fill to line on reservoir.
Differential Gear Oil F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty 5.80 PTS. 150,000 miles under normal operating conditions (50,000 miles for F-450, F-550)
50,000 miles under severe duty conditions		 SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Gear Oil BLUE DIAMOND SEVERE DUTY GEAR OIL 75W-90 S9
F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty 6.90 PTS. 150,000 miles under normal operating conditions (50,000 miles for F-450, F-550)
50,000 miles under severe duty conditions		 SAE 75W-140 Synthetic Rear Axle Gear Oil BLUE DIAMOND SEVERE DUTY GEAR OIL 85W-140 S14

FORD design rear axles contain a synthetic lubricant that does not require changing unless the axle has been submerged in water. Add 8 oz. of Additive Friction Modifier XL-3 or equivalent meeting FORD Specification: (EST-M2C118-A) for a complete refill of Limited Slip Axles.
F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty 8.50 PTS. 150,000 miles under normal operating conditions (50,000 miles for F-450, F-550)
50,000 miles under severe duty conditions		 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Rear Axle Gear Oil BLUE DIAMOND SEVERE DUTY GEAR OIL 75W-90 S9
F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty 14.00 PTS. — SAE 75W-140 Synthetic Rear Axle Gear Oil BLUE DIAMOND SEVERE DUTY GEAR OIL 85W-140 S14
Engine Coolant F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty, 6.4L Eng 30.60 QTS. — FORD Premium Gold Engine Coolant w/bittering agent Add the coolant type originally equipped in the vehicle.
Power Steering Fluid — — — MOTORCRAFT Automatic Transmission Fluid MERCON V BLUE DIAMOND ATF+4/DEXRON III/MERCON V (+4/D3/M5)
Fill between “max” and “min” lines on the reservoir.
Transfer Case Fluid 4WD 2.00 QTS. 150,000 miles under normal operating conditions
60,000 miles under severe duty conditions		 MOTORCRAFT Transfer Case Fluid BLUE DIAMOND ATF+4/DEXRON III/MERCON V (+4/D3/M5)
Service refill capacity is determined by filling the Transfer Case to the bottom of the filler hole with the vehicle on a level surface.
Windshield Washer Fluid — 4.25 QTS. — MOTORCRAFT Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate Fluid Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions for the mixture ratio.
Air Cond Refrigerant F250 Super Duty, F350 Super Duty 1.70 LBS. — R-134a —

What Is the Best Oil for a 6.4 Powerstroke? 

A powerful diesel engine like the 6.4 Powerstroke requires a heavy-duty oil solution, especially when working in intense weather or elevated terrain. A high-quality synthetic oil will help protect your engine when it’s under stress. 

An effective oil will maintain viscosity when it becomes heated and fluidity when chilled. Balancing density and viscosity, 5W-40 is often an ideal solution for a 6.4 Powerstroke in areas where the temperature can dip to minus 20 F. Trucks in climates with milder winters may be better off with up to 15W-40. 

The major benefits of synthetic oil, as opposed to traditional solutions, are that they offer consistent viscosity, excellent stability and a low decomposition rate. Synthetic oil also remains viable longer than other blends, potentially lasting as long as 10,000 miles under normal operation. 

Hot Shot’s Secret offers Blue Diamond PAO, an oil designed specifically for diesel engines like the Powerstroke 6.4. The Blue Diamond line uses true PAO oils for maximum longevity and performance additives to give your engine superior mileage and horsepower. This formula includes patented R3 Nano-Technology and a CK-4 additive package from Hot Shot’s Secret to take oil durability to the next level.

How Often Should You Change Oil?

For most driving conditions, it’s recommended that you change your 6.4L Ford Powerstroke engine every 7,500 miles or as indicated by the instrument cluster message center. However, if you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in dusty conditions or face extreme temperatures, you may need to change your oil more frequently — around every 5,000 miles.

Regular oil and filter changes are essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Frequently checking how much oil is in your 6.4 Powerstroke engine protects against premature wear and potential damage from contaminated or degraded oil. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual and consider your specific driving conditions for the best oil-changing schedule.

Powerstroke 6.4L Fluid Capacities 

One of the most important steps to preventing damage and maintaining performance in your 6.4L Powerstroke engine is adding the right amount of the right fluids. The team of experts here at Hot Shot’s Secret has put together this guide to walk you through how to pick the best oil for your 6.4 and determine how much you need in your truck. 

 

How Much Fluid Do You Need in Your 6.4L Powerstroke?

Having adequate — but not excessive — fluid is vital to keeping your 6.4L Powerstroke in top condition. It’s always most important to keep a close eye on your dipstick or other full/max lines. The goal is to achieve a balance. You don’t want to give your truck more fluid than it needs, but you want to ensure it has more than the minimum required for function in order to protect your engine. 

DIY Service Videos

How to Change the Fuel Filter on a 2008-2010 F-350 6.4L Powerstroke

Instructional video on changing the fuel filter on a 2008 Ford F-350 with a 6.4L Powerstroke and automatic.

Model Years: 2008, 2009, 2010

Ford Super Duty F-250, F-350 and F-450

The Hot Shot’s Secret “How to” series is provided for informational purposes only. It is intended to provide general guidance only. Tools, techniques, best practices, products and regulations are continually changing, We assume no responsibility for the completeness, reliability nor accuracy of the information in this video. It is the responsibility of the viewer to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and safety regulations. Hot Shot’s Secret disclaims liability for any omissions, errors, material performance or the outcome of any project. Any action you take upon the information in this video is strictly at your own risk and we will not be liable for any losses and damages in connection the use of this video. If you have a question regarding any element of a project, please consult a professional rather than exclusively relying on this video.

Choose Hot Shot’s Secret Oils for Your 6.4L Powerstroke

The diesel experts at Hot Shot’s Secret know that you chose the Powerstroke 6.4L as your engine because you want heavy-duty capability. That’s why our team develops cutting-edge diesel formulas to take performance to the next level. Trust us for solutions including oil additives, fuel additives, engine oils, bypass filters, transmission fluids and additives, and more. 

Want to make a purchase or ask one of our experts a question? Shop our diesel additive options online or give our team a call at 800-341-6516. 

Stiction Eliminator 1qt
The Original Stiction Eliminator
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Diesel Extreme 1qt
Diesel Extreme
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EDT 16oz Squeeze
Everyday Diesel Treatment
from $6.99
EDT+ Winter Defense 16oz
EDT+ Winter Defense
from $8.99
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