The Ford Excursion 6.0 TD, produced from 2002 to 2005, represented the pinnacle of full-size SUV capability from Ford. Built on a heavily modified Ford Super Duty chassis, the Excursion was notable for being the largest SUV ever mass-produced by a domestic manufacturer. The 6.0-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel variant, generating 329 horsepower and 745 lb-ft of torque, was positioned as the premium engine option, aimed at buyers needing substantial towing capacity and interior space. It occupied the top tier of Excursion powertrains, surpassing the gasoline engine options in both performance and price. This model was primarily sold in the North American market, catering to customers in rural areas, those with large families, or those requiring a vehicle for heavy-duty work and recreation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Excursion |
| Generation | Excursion |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 TD (329 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 8-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18 l/100 km (13.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 153 km/h (95.07 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 329 Hp @ 3300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 745 Nm @ 2000 rpm (549.48 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VT365 |
| Engine displacement | 5948 cm3 (362.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 104.9 mm (4.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 14.2 l (15 US qt | 12.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 26 l (27.47 US qt | 22.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3595 kg (7925.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 4173 kg (9199.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 578 kg (1274.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1359 l (47.99 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4145 l (146.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 166 l (43.85 US gal | 36.51 UK gal) |
| Length | 5758 mm (226.69 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1948 mm (76.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3480 mm (137.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1737 mm (68.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/75 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Excursion 6.0 TD is the VT365 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine. This engine is a 32-valve, overhead valve (OHV) design, utilizing a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It employs a high-pressure common rail fuel injection system, capable of multiple injection events per combustion cycle for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler further enhances performance by providing increased boost across a wider RPM range. The engine’s 18:1 compression ratio contributes to its high torque output. The 6.0-liter Power Stroke is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. Paired with the engine is a 4-speed automatic transmission (4R100), specifically reinforced to handle the engine’s substantial torque. This transmission features a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve fuel economy at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The Excursion 6.0 TD delivers a driving experience characterized by immense power and towing capability. While not particularly nimble due to its size and weight, the engine provides strong acceleration, especially when considering the vehicle’s mass. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while robust, isn’t as refined as more modern transmissions with more gears. Gear changes are noticeable, and the transmission can sometimes hunt for the right gear under heavy load. The 4.10 rear axle ratio (common for this variant) provides a good balance between towing performance and highway cruising. Compared to the gasoline-powered Excursions, the 6.0 TD offers significantly more low-end torque, making it far superior for hauling heavy trailers or navigating challenging terrain. Compared to other diesel options available at the time, the 6.0 Powerstroke offered a good balance of power and refinement, though it wasn’t without its known issues (discussed in the Legacy section).
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Excursion 6.0 TD was typically offered in higher trim levels, such as XLT and Limited. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included a DVD entertainment system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and spacious, prioritizing comfort and utility over luxury. The rear seats could be configured in various ways, including a bench seat or captain’s chairs, allowing for flexible passenger and cargo arrangements.
Chassis & Braking
The Excursion’s chassis is a heavily modified version of the Ford Super Duty truck frame, providing exceptional strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilizes coil springs, while the rear suspension employs leaf springs, designed to handle heavy loads. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Due to the vehicle’s size and weight, the steering is somewhat slow and requires a firm hand. The 265/75 R16 tires provide good traction in a variety of conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Excursion 6.0 TD received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its immense power and towing capacity, it was criticized for its large size, poor fuel economy (13-19 mpg), and relatively high price. Compared to other full-size SUVs of the time, such as the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL, the Excursion offered more interior space and towing capacity, but at the expense of fuel efficiency and maneuverability. The 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine was generally well-regarded, but concerns were raised about its long-term reliability (see Legacy section). The Excursion appealed to a niche market of buyers who prioritized capability and space above all else.
Legacy
The Ford Excursion 6.0 TD has developed a somewhat controversial legacy. While highly sought after by those needing a heavy-duty SUV, the 6.0-liter Power Stroke engine is known for potential issues with the head gaskets, oil cooler, and turbocharger. These issues, if left unaddressed, can lead to costly repairs. However, many owners have successfully addressed these problems with aftermarket upgrades and preventative maintenance. Today, well-maintained Excursions 6.0 TD models command a premium in the used car market, particularly among enthusiasts and those seeking a capable tow vehicle. Despite its age and potential maintenance concerns, the Excursion remains a unique and imposing vehicle, representing a bygone era of large, powerful SUVs.
