Engine Internal Failures:
* Rod Bearing Failure: This is a common and catastrophic failure in the 6.0 Powerstroke. Excessive heat, low oil pressure, or inadequate lubrication lead to the connecting rod bearings failing, allowing the rods to contact the crankshaft and seize the engine.
* Main Bearing Failure: Similar to rod bearing failure, main bearing failure can cause the crankshaft to seize.
* Cam Shaft Failure: Although less frequent than bearing failures, camshaft failures can cause the engine to lock up.
* Piston Failure: Piston ring breakage or piston seizure can occur due to overheating, debris in the oil, or lack of lubrication.
* Crankshaft Failure: A cracked or broken crankshaft is a major failure that will obviously lock up the engine.
Oil System Related Issues:
* Low Oil Pressure: Insufficient oil pressure deprives critical engine components of lubrication, leading to bearing failure and seizure. This can be caused by a failing oil pump, clogged oil filter, or other oil system leaks.
* Oil Cooler Failure: Failure of the oil cooler can cause coolant to mix with the oil, leading to sludge buildup and engine damage.
* Blocked Oil Passages: Sludge or debris in the oil can block critical oil passages, resulting in insufficient lubrication.
Cooling System Related Issues:
* Overheating: Overheating is a major cause of engine damage in the 6.0 Powerstroke, leading to warped heads, cracked blocks, and bearing failures. This can stem from a failing water pump, thermostat, radiator, or a lack of coolant.
Other Potential Causes:
* Injector Failure: While not directly causing a complete lockup, a catastrophic injector failure (e.g., a broken injector that punctures a piston) can lead to significant damage.
* Hydraulic Roller Tappet Failure: Although less common, these can cause internal damage.
Important Note: Diagnosing the exact cause of a locked-up 6.0 Powerstroke requires a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic. Attempting to diagnose or repair this yourself without the proper experience and tools is strongly discouraged, as you could cause further damage or injury. The repair could be very expensive depending on the extent of the failure.
