Ford's 7.3 liter IDI turbo-diesel engine is equipped with an oil cooler to help improve engine cooling during towing duties. Over time the oil cooler may develop leaks, either from a cracked housing, or from the rubber o-rings at the ends of the cooler. Repair or replacement of the oil cooler will require removal of the cooler, which is accessed after removal of steering components and radiator hoses.
Park your truck on flat ground and disconnect the negative terminal on the battery. Drain the oil from the engine, and the coolant from the radiator.
Disconnect the telescoping portion of the steering column by unbolting the top bolt in the universal knuckle, and the bolt at the split collar which attaches to the steering box's splined input. Loosen the power steering belt by adjusting the power steering pump, then remove the power steering pump and bracket.
Remove the radiator hose from the driver side of the radiator. Note there may be some coolant in the hose which will leak upon removal, so be sure to have some rags available to clean up a spill.
Remove the oil cooler by removing the three bolts above the oil cooler, and the two bolts in the front cover. The oil cooler can now be removed from the engine bay.
