Ford Cummins Swap

Ford Cummins swaps have always been popular as a way to re-power a F250/F350. Companies emerged to offer kits (or even do the work) to remove a 7.3L, 6.0L or 6.4L Powerstroke and install a 12V/24V Cummins. What makes the swaps popular? Is it right for your truck? Are you just limited to Cummins-swapping pickups? This post is about Ford Cummins swaps and what we’ve learned on The Diesel Podcast.

If you own a Powerstroke and the engine is getting tired, you’ve probably thought “Why not toss a Cummins in it?” You wouldn’t be alone. Cummins engines are renowned for dependability, reliability, fuel economy, broad torque curves, simplicity, and tremendous aftermarket support. What isn’t to love? One consideration (and probably the biggest) is the cost of a Ford Cummins swap. Cummins core engines aren’t cheap to start with. Sometimes they may not include all the parts you’d need – like the injection pump, turbo, fuel lines, accessories, and engine harness. And even if they do, its a risk to install an engine into your Ford with unknown miles or history. This will mean a teardown and inspection of the parts, potential part replacement, upgrades and the labor to do it all. From there, you’ll need engine mounts, an adapter plate, and if swapping for a 5.9L Cummins common rail, tuning to make it all work. While the swap may seem easy due to how simple a Cummins is, the surrounding parts and labor may make it expensive.

Another factory when deciding to do a Ford Cummins swap is its legality where you live. Each state (and even county) can be different in the United States when it comes to emission laws. In one county, you could install a 12V into a 2020 Ford and there’s no issue. In another, laws require an engine swap to follow the emission standards of that model year. For readers outside of the United States, this may not be a consideration. But, it is important to check your local emission laws before forking over the money to get a Cummins engine and swap kit.

So, what’s the benefit? 12V, 24V and common rail Cummins engines can be built for fuel economy and towing to all-out 3300HP fire breathers. There’s no limit, build packages are plentiful and an entire aftermarket supports the engine. If you’ve struggled with a pesky 6.0L or 6.4L Powerstroke, the allure can be to keep the truck you love, with the diesel engine you want. For the racing crowd, the possibilities are endless. We’ve seen lots of Cummins swap Mustangs, GM trucks, muscle cars, vintage vehicles, and more. The exhaust tone of a 5.9L Cummins is unmistakable – and so is the industry-leading power and torque they put out with upgraded parts.

Whether a Ford Cummins swap is for you depends on a lot of factors. Hopefully what we’ve learned about them helps you discover if it’s right for your truck, budget, and end goals.