Product Description
The POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-18MMLHDVS 18MM 6.0L HEAD LOADED HD VALVE SPRINGS is a brand-new, fully loaded cylinder head engineered for 2003–2005 Ford 6.0L Powerstroke trucks with 18mm head dowels. Built from a new casting and assembled with all-new valves, seals, guides, and heavy duty valve springs, this head is designed for tuned, tow, and mild performance builds that demand rock-solid valvetrain control and long-term reliability.
Unlike off-the-shelf reman heads, each POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS assembly begins with a fresh casting that is inspected, machined, and pressure-tested before being built with new components. The integrated HD valve springs provide better control at higher RPM and elevated boost levels, making this head ideal for trucks running performance tuning, upgraded turbochargers, and aggressive tow calibrations. You also benefit from a no-core, ready-to-install solution backed by a 1-year unlimited mileage warranty for peace of mind.
This PP-18MMLHDVS head is sold individually and is an excellent match when paired with a Powerstroke Products head gasket set and proper head studs. Whether you’re refreshing a hard-working tow rig or finishing a performance build, this head delivers the durability, airflow stability, and valvetrain control your 6.0L Powerstroke needs.
Fitment
- 2003–2005 Ford F-250 Super Duty 6.0L Powerstroke (18mm head dowels)
- 2003–2005 Ford F-350 Super Duty 6.0L Powerstroke (18mm head dowels)
- 2003–2005 Ford F-450 / F-550 (chassis cab) 6.0L Powerstroke (18mm head dowels)
- 2004–2005 Ford Excursion 6.0L Powerstroke – verify 18mm dowel size before ordering
- Direct replacement loaded cylinder head for 6.0L Powerstroke equipped with 18mm dowel heads
Important Fitment Note: Model year ranges are suggested. Ford transitioned from 18mm to 20mm head dowels during 2003–2004. Always confirm dowel size on your engine before ordering this 18mm head.
Key Features
- Brand-new casting – not remanufactured
- Fully loaded head: new valves, valve seats, valve guides, valve seals, and HD springs
- Heavy duty valve springs ideal for tuned and turbo-upgraded 6.0L builds
- No core charge – keep or scrap your old head
- Designed for 18mm dowel 6.0L Powerstroke applications
- 1-year unlimited mileage warranty from Powerstroke Products
Cross-Reference & Related POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS Parts (CPP Diesel)
- POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-18MMLOEM 18MM 6.0L HEAD LOADED OEM – Stock-style loaded 18mm head for factory-level builds.
- POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-18MMLHDVSO 18MM 6.0L HEAD LOADED HDS O-RINGED – O-ringed 18mm head with HD springs for higher boost and cylinder pressure.
- POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-20MMLHDVS 20MM 6.0L HEAD LOADED HD VALVE SPRINGS – Similar loaded head for 2006–2007 20mm-dowel 6.0L applications.
- POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-HDVS7.3 HD VALVE SPRING & RETAINER SET – Heavy duty spring upgrade for 7.3L Powerstroke performance builds.
- POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-LIFTER LIFTER SET 7.3L/6.0L/6.4L – Ideal companion upgrade when building a 6.0L valvetrain with a new head and cam.
Specifications for POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-18MMLHDVS
| Brand | POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS |
|---|---|
| Part Number | PP-18MMLHDVS |
| Engine | Ford 6.0L Powerstroke Diesel |
| Model Years | 2003–2005 (18mm head dowel engines – verify dowel size) |
| Configuration | Loaded cylinder head with heavy duty valve springs |
| Dowel Size | 18mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| UPC | Not specified by manufacturer |
| GTIN | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Shipping Weight | Approx. 75 lb (single loaded cylinder head) |
| Shipping Dimensions | Approx. 36 in (L) x 16 in (W) x 10 in (H) |
| Shipping Method | Standard ground shipping, calculated at checkout |
| Cross Reference | POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-18MMLOEM, PP-18MMLHDVSO, PP-20MMLHDVS |
| E-Codes | Not specified |
| Warranty | 1-year unlimited mileage (manufacturer warranty) |
| Core Charge | None – no core required |
| Prop 65 | Yes – WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Installation & Usage Notes
- Always verify 18mm head dowel size prior to ordering.
- Recommended to pair with quality head studs and proper head gasket set.
- Professional installation and correct torque/fastener procedures are strongly recommended.
- Not legal for sale or use in some emissions-controlled regions; verify local regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this head work with my stock 6.0L valvetrain components?Yes. The POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS PP-18MMLHDVS head is delivered fully loaded with new valves, guides, seats, seals, and HD valve springs. It is designed to work with factory-style rocker arms, pushrods, and other OE valvetrain components, while providing additional spring pressure to support tuning and turbo upgrades. Always inspect existing parts for wear and replace as needed.
Do I need to upgrade head studs when using this HD spring head?
While this head will bolt on with OEM head bolts, upgrading to quality head studs is strongly recommended for any tuned, towed, or performance application. Increased cylinder pressure and higher RPM place more load on the head gasket. Studs, when installed correctly, provide better clamping force and help prevent head gasket failure.
How do I know if my engine has 18mm or 20mm head dowels?
Ford used both 18mm and 20mm dowels on 6.0L engines. The best way to confirm is to remove the valve cover and physically measure one of the locating dowels in the deck or head. Many early 2003–2004 trucks are 18mm, while later trucks transitioned to 20mm, but build dates alone are not a guarantee. Always measure before ordering to ensure you select the correct head.
Is there a core charge on the PP-18MMLHDVS head?
No. This cylinder head is sold as an all-new, no-core assembly. You do not need to send in your old head, which saves time and eliminates the hassle of core inspection or credit delays. You can keep your old head as a spare or scrap it as you prefer.
Can this head be used with larger turbochargers and custom tuning?
Yes. The HD valve springs in this head are specifically chosen to better control valve motion in applications with elevated boost and RPM, such as trucks running larger turbochargers and custom tuning. For extreme race use, consider pairing this head with O-ringed or fire-ringed Powerstroke Products options, stronger pushrods, and a matched performance camshaft from the POWERSTROKE PRODUCTS line.
