Ram 6.7 Cummins Diesel Vs. Ford 6.7 Powerstroke Diesel: Detailed Comparison

Intro

The comparison between the Ram and Ford truck has proven to be a formidable debate among experts because both vehicles are rated highly due to their outstanding features.

Some people may prefer the interior and exterior of the Ram over the Ford, while others may prefer Ford. But, to know which is better, you will have to look at their engines.

This article contains a detailed comparison between the Ram 6.7 Cummins Diesel and the Ford 6.7 Powerstroke Diesel engine. You will be able to decide after reading this article which truck is the best.

Ram 6.7 Cummins Diesel Vs. Ford 6.7 Powerstroke Diesel: Detailed Comparison

These two 6.7L engines are powerhouses with fascinating differences. Some believe that the 6.7 Cummins is a better workhorse, while others think the 6.7 Powerstroke has better overall functionality. 

The analysis will be done on specific areas like specifications, features, performance, towing payload, and prices. So, let us find out which truck is  better all-round or a better workhorse.

Specifications

For the specifications, let’s start with the configuration of the engine. The 6.7 Powerstroke has a configuration of 4 OHV/1 Cam-in-Crankcase-V8, while the 6.7 Cummins 4 OHV/1 Solid Lifter Camshaft Inline 6 Cylinder. The bore and stroke for the Powerstroke are 99x108 mm (3.90x4.25″), and the Cummins is 107x124 mm (4.21x4.88″). Another specification to consider is the head/block material. The Powerstroke block is made of compacted graphite iron, and its head is an aluminum cylinder. The block is made of compacted graphite iron for the Cummins, and the head is a cast-iron cylinder.

The Powerstroke has a garret GT37 single variable geometry turbocharger, dual compressor, and single turbine. At the same time, the Cummins has a holset variable geometry turbocharger and an air-to-air intercooler. The firing order of the Powerstroke is 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8, and that of the Cummins is 1-5-3-6-2-4. 

The oil capacity of the Powerstroke is 13 quarts with the filter. Meanwhile, the Cummins 6.7 requires 12 quarts of engine oil (with the filter). Also, the Powerstroke comes with a 10R140 10-speed automatic transmission, while the Cummins has an Aisin AS69RC 6-speed automatic transmission option. Lastly, the Powerstroke has a mileage of 21/16 MPG for highway/city, while the Cummins has 20/14 MPG for highway/city.

The engine of the Powerstroke produces 475 horsepower at 2,800 rpm, while the Cummins produces 370 horsepower at 2,800 rpm. The compression ratio of the Powerstroke is 15.8:1, and the Cummins is 16.2:1. The torque for the Powerstroke is 1,050 lb-ft at 1,800 rpm, and that of the Cummins is 1,000 lb-ft at 1,800 rpm. 

Features

6.7 Powerstroke

The Powerstroke features a twin-inducer turbocharger, reverse-flow cylinder head, and air-to-to-water intercooler. These features are the first of their kind in this engine category. Also, the Powerstroke features four rocker arms and pushrods for each cylinder for noise and durability.

6.7 Cummins

The Cummins engine features a potential of high horsepower and durability of a million miles on its side. The improved combustion cycle allows it to meet the 2010 emission standard. 

Performance

The Powerstroke has a unique design of a single sequential turbocharger when it comes to performance. This design is similar to the twin-turbo style with a dual compressor and standard shaft. The 6.7 Powerstroke 2020 model recorded a 1,050 lb.-ft at 1,800 rpm and 475 at 2,800 rpm, which was possible because of the unique design of the turbocharger.

The numbers put up by the Cummins is not quite impressive, with a 1,000 lb.-ft at 1,800 rpm, and 400 horsepower at 2,800 rpm.

Both trucks share similar truck numbers but differ in output, with the Powerstroke coming on top. The Cummins also uses the single sequential turbocharger, but it is different from that of the Powerstroke engine. In terms of performance, the 6.7 Powerstroke engine offers the best.

Towing and Payload

When it comes to the towing and payload reliability, the difference between both trucks is not much. The reliability increases and newer models are released for the Cummins and the Powerstroke engines. 

The towing capacity of the 6.7 Powerstroke is 21,000 pounds and can increase up-to 22,800 pounds when enhanced with the 5th-wheel/gooseneck trailer. While, the towing of the Cummins is also rated at 21,560 pounds.

The Cummins produces a low-end torque relative to the Powerstroke, which gives it an edge in towing. Because, with the low-end torque, the engine has an easier time. This makes it more reliable in the long run.

Prices

The standard price for the 6.7 Cummins engine is $9,100, while that of the Powerstroke ranges between $5,500 to $11,000. But, this is the cost of a brand-new engine. You can get an upgrade for as low as $1,100 without extra labor cost.

Fuel Consumption

The mileage of the Powerstroke engine is poorer because it struggles with carrying heavy loads over a long period or distance. The reverse is the case for the 6.7 Cummins engine, and it also has a better fuel economy when carry heavy loads.

But, when the trucks are not carrying loads, the Powerstroke has a better fuel economy on the highways and the city. The Powerstroke is slightly better on the road without load.

Pros and Cons

6.7 Powerstroke

The 6.7 Powerstroke engine is the most powerful diesel engine today. Its design is built tough but looks very luxurious to behold. It affords the truck the ability to have multiple applications. Also, It has a good fuel economy for a truck.

The cons for the Powerstroke is that it does not utilize its full torque potential. You will have to break your bank when it comes to maintenance repairs, especially for CP4 failure repair.

6.7 Cummins

The Cummins truck can easily pull heavy loads, which is not difficult to work on. It has a long-lasting ability, which means it is durable. The systems are simple, and it makes maintenance less costly.

The negative aspect of this engine is that its emission equipment can cause some problems. Also, you might not be able to push your truck; in terms of power, and it is not designed for daily drivers.

How can I get more horsepower out of my 6.7 Cummins and 6.7 Powerstroke?

When considering an upgrade to your 6.7 Cummins engine, there are several ways in which you can accomplish it. You could employ the following tune, cold air intake, intercooler, exhaust, and intake horn/manifold. The primary way for you to boost your 6.7 Cummins is by applying tune.

When you tune the engine, it improves the fuel consumption, power and engine efficiency, and timing.  Tuning improves power through the increase in turbo boost levels of the engine. This is done by allowing air into the engine, which helps reduce stress on the turbo and improves its spooling ability. It is on this note we recommend that you make use of the performance intake system to improve your engine airflow.

While, for upgrading the 6.7 Powerstroke engine, the same processes apply. The air intake system allows the 6.7 Powerstroke to increase its horsepower by 10-20 hp, keeps the EGT down, and stimulate the spooling ability.

6.7 Powerstroke Vs 6.7 Cummins: Common Problems

The injection pump failure is the most common problem the Powerstroke encounters. It can shut down the fuel system and render some engine parts useless. The repair of the injection pump failure is quite expensive. The Powerstroke has less complication with other parts of the engine, but once they do, seek the services of an expert immediately.

For Cummins, the major problem is with the emission equipment that causes clogging. The emission system is too complicated, so they create problems. Some awful smell does come from the poor fuel economy (without carrying heavy loads) and power drop. The Cummins find it difficult to handle excessive power, and some owners use a tuner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these two engines are very difficult to separate, but all the necessary features have been highlighted. Displaying the strengths and weakness of the 6.7 Powerstroke and the 6.7 Cummins engine.

The Powerstroke is ahead of the Cummins, but the positions are reversed in terms of reliability in engine power. Also, considering the DIY ease, the Cummins edges the Powerstroke. 

In exposure to problems and recalls, the Cummins is more vulnerable; hence the Powerstroke comes out on top. So, depending on your preference you can now make your choice.