Top 10 Best Starter For 7.3 Powerstroke Reviews 2023 (Buyer’s Guide)

Having trouble starting your Powerstroke 7.3L engine? There’s a high chance the starter is faulty.

In that case, nothing will help you like installing a new one.

That’s why we wanted to bring the best starter for 7.3 Powerstroke. We’ve assembled a list of high-quality starters that fit those big engines like a gem.

This will improve your vehicle’s performance in many ways, starting from a quick start-up to how the engine accelerates and much more.

If you’re looking to set up your Powerstroke engine with a new starter – then don’t hesitate and read this guide. You’ll find everything you need!

Best Starter For 7.3 Powerstroke (Editor’s Pick)

What is the Best Starter for 7.3 Powerstroke?

If we had to pick only one starter for the job, we wouldn’t choose any other than the DB Electrical SND0355.

It offers everything you could expect a starter for this kind of engine to offer.

You get the reliability, efficiency, and responsiveness necessary to make your 7.3L engine perform like never before.

And for the price it has, there’s a no better option to go for.

Below, we explain a lot more about it. But if you aren’t convinced by it, you can always look at the other 9 starters we reviewed. Take a look below and learn more!

So it’s time for the nitty-gritty. Here, we will disclose all about the best starters you can install on a 7.3 Powerstroke engine.

You won’t find any better models out there. But even then, it is still wise to know all about each one before choosing.

So this comprehensive yet brief review section should help you with that. Take a look:

10 Best Starters for 7.3 Powerstroke Reviews

01. DB Electrical SND0355 Ford 7.3L Powerstroke Starter – Delivers Next-Level Starting Speed

 

Top 3 Features:

• 12V voltage
• 13 teeth
• OSGR design

Getting a quality starter that gets the job done from every front is not easy. Luckily, the SND0355 from DB Electrical does it all.

From its exceptional construction to its top-notch performance, there’s not a single downside to this piece.

Immensely Reliable Build

First and foremost, a starter needs to last if you want to get the most out of it.

This one will undoubtedly last thanks to copper and nickel contacts that don’t wear out fast.

It gets better with the sealed bearings & housing, perfect for keeping grime and moisture out at all times.

Fast-Starting Monster

The quality of the contacts alongside the premium magnets and field coils will improve the overall performance of the piece.

You can get the fastest starts with ease. And what’s even better, you can expect this performance to last a lifetime.

Highly Compatible

This starter won’t only fit on 7.3L Powerstroke engines. You can also make it work on the 6.9L alternatives if necessary.

And even then, you can expect it to work seamlessly with almost any 7.3L engine out there – be it Powerstroke or not. Its OSGR design and 2-bolt gear make it all possible.

What We Liked

• Decently priced for its quality
• Works with different engines
• Will last a lifetime
• Delivers super-fast starts

What We Didn’t Like

• Needs modifications for newer engines

02. Powermaster 9051 Ultra-Duty Starter – Will Last a Lifetime

 

Top 3 Features:

• 6 HP delivery
• 260 ft-lbs
• 3:81:1 gear reduction

When it comes to setting up your truck with a 7.3 Powerstroke starter, the 9051 from Powermaster is easily the most reliable you can get.

It boosts performance while ensuring maximum durability.

Superb Power Improvement

Not every day you can find a starter that enhances your engine’s power. This one does it amazingly well with the 3.81:1 gear reduction.

It can handle 260 ft-lbs of torque and deliver up to 3.6 horsepower.

That may seem like little, but it’s actually a lot when you consider it all comes from the starter alone.

Incredibly Fast & Dependable

Thanks to a heavy-duty design, the Ultra-Duty 9051 starter will make sure you get years of quick and problem-free results.

It doesn’t matter in what situation you’re using the starter, it will deliver the performance and results you need.

Ultra-Durable & Tough

While low-quality starters tend to have problems in the first few years, this one does not.

It is designed to handle even the most challenging operations for a decade, so you can expect magnificent results without a single drawback for years.

What We Liked

• Handles the toughest uses
• Starts fast and reliably
• Doesn’t wear down too fast
• Boosts engine performance

What We Didn’t Like

• Feels expensive

03. DB Electrical SMT0024 Starter for Powerstroke – Best Starter for the Money

 

Top 3 Features:

• Ford F-Series from 1994 to 1998
• PLGR design
• 6Kw rating

If you’re looking for a highly reliable, performance-oriented, and affordable starter, nothing will meet your demands like the SMT0024 from DB Electrical.

You get the whole package without having to empty your wallet.

Highly Resilient Build

Everything about this starter speaks about maximum resilience.

From the construction using the highest-quality materials out there to handle heavy-duty operations without hesitating – it is one of the most resilient you can get for the cost.

Results-Oriented Build

You won’t have to worry about the engine failing because the starter is not working.

Even in the hardest of applications, you’ll find this model delivering exceptional results.

It is designed to handle tough use while still ensuring maximum speed and responsiveness.

Incredibly Practical & Compatible

Thanks to a PLGR design, you can match this starter with most F-Series trucks from Ford.

Whether it is the F-series van or the pickups, even the Excursion truck – they all work seamlessly with this starter.

That’s something you shouldn’t dismiss if you’re looking for convenience.

What We Liked

• Delivers top-notch results for its price
• Fits with most engines seamlessly
• Delivers ultra-fast starts
• Magnificent durability for the cost

What We Didn’t Like

• Not resistant to winter weather

04. ACDelco 337-1077 Professional Starter – Delivers Maximum

Reliability for Any Purpose

 

Top 3 Features:

• Greased components
• Bolted solenoid
• Direct-fit design

Some people are looking for the highest reliability possible from a starter. In that case, you won’t find any better model than the 337-1077 from ACDelco.

Ultra-Reliable Construction

What sets this starter apart from the competition is how it withstands any situation without performance or durability issues.

Because all its components are lubricated with grease, you can expect it to handle even the roughest conditions without a single drawback.

Next-Level Components Quality

All the components perform well under challenging conditions, but they also give an extra touch of power to your car.

Thanks to unique engineering enhancements plus ultra-new components that never disappoint, you can expect your engine performance to improve with this starter.

Highly Compatible Design

No matter how high your expectations, this starter will meet them.

Especially when ensuring an excellent fit on your 7.3L Powerstarter engine, it won’t let you down.

Every contact point is gauged, measured, and designed to work correctly on this engine. So you shouldn’t worry about that.

What We Liked

• Demands little setup effort
• Lubricated pieces last a lifetime
• Increases engine performance
• Improves starting speed

What We Didn’t Like

• A bit pricey

05. Powermaster 9050 Ultra-Duty Starter – Premium Quality Build & Performance

 

Top 3 Features:

• Cast-aluminium build
• Fits 1985 & 1994 F-Series
• 9L and 7.3L compatible

Coming back to Powermaster, it is time to go over the 9050 Ultra-Duty starters.

Considering its performance and overall construction, we can safely name it the best starter for 7.3 Powerstroke if you’re looking for premium results.

High-Torque Performance Boost

The Powerstroke engine only works with starters that can handle the power it produces.

So the starters need to handle this rough performance to work properly.

This ultra-duty model from Powermaster does exactly that, ensuring maximum cranking power on your engine with the direct-drive design.

Amazingly Durable Construction

Few starters can boast a cast-aluminum build with a natural finish that prevents corrosion and other issues.

This combination ensures maximum durability, so you can expect this starter to last several years or even decades with proper use.

Fantastic Starting Improvement

Want your engine to turn over faster? Then you need to install a starter with the highest-quality components, specifically designed for such performance.

This starter does precisely that kind of job, making sure you can start driving your Powerstroke engine almost immediately.

What We Liked

• Will get the engine on another level
• Delivers extra-fast engine starts
• Doesn’t wear down or fail easily
• Can handle high-torque & cranking uses

What We Didn’t Like

• It’s costly

06. TYC 1-06669 F-Series Replacement Starter – The Cheapest Model in the List

 

Top 3 Features:

• Quality exterior finish
• High-power build
• 5kW rating

Cheap but gets the job done without drawbacks – the 1-06669 from TYC is an excellent starter to have. For its price and overall construction, you get a lot from this piece.

Super-Resilient Components

Everything from the solenoid to the brushes, armature, and even bearings are all made of the highest quality.

Apart from that, everything is completely new and specially designed for the piece. So you’re likely getting fantastic durability from the whole starter.

Fantastic Performance

Despite its low cost, the TYC starter will deliver more-than-decent results. You won’t have trouble starting your engine in the slightest.

And what’s even better, the starting will be exponentially improved when compared to factory starters.

Maximum Affordability

If you’re looking to install a cheap starter in your truck that gets the job done with no downsides, then you’ll love this one.

There’s simply no more affordable choice when it comes to delivering the quality and responsiveness this starter does.

What We Liked

• It’s incredibly affordable
• Delivers an engine boost
• Will handle tons of use
• Boasts excellent components

What We Didn’t Like

• May reduce power delivery

07. DB Electrical SND0027 Starter – Makes the Installation a Piece of Cake

 

Top 3 Features:

• OSGR design
• 5kW rating
• 13-teeth gears

If you’re looking to get the best value possible from your starter, then you’ll love having a model like the SND0027 from DB Electrical.

Coming at an excellent cost, it offers a lot more than its price says.

Fantastic Responsiveness

Getting your truck to start right away is something a few starters will do. Luckily, the SND0027 from DB Electrical is one of them.

Boasting high-end magnets and field coils, you can achieve a slight improvement in starting speed plus a subtle but noticeable torque boost.

Drawback-Free Performance

Thanks to sealed bearings and high-level housings, you get a completely locked construction that prevents any unwanted damage internally.

You can include the brushes, bushings, and copper/nickel contacts, working perfectly to deliver a super-reliable starting experience.

Highly Compatible Design

Want to have a blast setting up the starter? Then this one will make that possible.

The 2/3 bolt system plus the OEM-compatible build will prevent any issues while installing.

This gets even better with the True-Fit system, ensuring an even easier setup.

What We Liked

• Fits seamlessly on most engines
• Comes at a reasonable cost
• Starts the engine super-quick
• Can last several years easily

What We Didn’t Like

• Makes starting noisier

08. Rareelectrical High Torque Starter – Extremely Long-Lasting Alternative

 

Top 3 Features:

• 4kW rating
• OSGR design
• Fits 1994-2003 F-Series

Few people would consider Rareelectrical a reputable brand for a starter for F250 7.3. If you’re one of them, you would be surprised at how well this one performs.

Outstanding Reliability

Every piece on this starter is built and designed to increase resilience.

Boasting next-level components and a super-durable construction all around, the part will not fail unless it is damaged directly.

This build and parts will make it possible to get excellent starts for years to come.

Great Starting Speed

In contrast with other models in the list, the Rareelectrical starter boasts 4kW of power and a 13-teeth rotation.

This combination improves the speed of factory starters and prevents efficiency problems related to the starter.

Practical & Versatile

Boasting an OSGR design, it works with 7.3L engines without problems. Yet, it can also work with other engines as well.

As long as the total power and rotation system fit with the vehicle, then this starter will probably have no problem working with it.

What We Liked

• Works with any 7.3L engine
• Increases engine start speed
• Compatible with high-cranking operations
• Ultra-reliable construction all around

What We Didn’t Like

• The battery terminal is located in an awkward location

09. Parts Player Mitsubishi PLGR Starter for Powerstroke – Excellent Engine Boost

 

Top 3 Features:

• PLGR design
• 12V voltage
• High-torque build

A PLGR starter like the Parts Player Mitsubishi will take your vehicle’s starting speed to another level.

You won’t have to be worried about your engine not starting for long.

Exponentially Torque Boost

When compared to factory starters, this one surpasses expectations exponentially. It all happens with the capacity to achieve maximum torque on your engine.

And with its super-quick starting delivery, it will make even the toughest starts a lot easier.

Straightforward Installation

All the mounting and power components are designed to fit almost seamlessly with most vehicles.

You won’t have a problem setting it up with your car with this design.

And if you add its 12V power and PLGR design, you’re likely getting exceptional compatibility with your Powerstroke engine.

Ultra-Reliable Construction

Every piece on the starter was designed perfectly to meet even the highest standards. This means you won’t get a single drawback from using this starter.

And sure enough, the whole piece will last a lifetime, so you can work your engine to the max without any failures.

What We Liked

• Doesn’t require much effort to install
• Fits like a charm in most Powerstroke engines
• Won’t break or wear down easily
• Gives an excellent engine boost

What We Didn’t Like

• Produces a weird starting noise

10. ESellSimple Starter for Powerstroke – Maximum Resilience for the Cost

 

Top 3 Features:

• Fits 1995-2003 engines
• PLGR design
• 6kW rating

Amazingly reliable and efficient for its price, the ESellSimple starter will handle your Powerstroke engine with no downsides.

Slight Engine Improvement

Being a PLGR starter, you can expect excellent performance from this model.

Along with the 4.82HP of capacity plus the 3.6kW of current, it will boost your engine slightly.

From the start to the moment you’re pushing the pedal, this starter doesn’t disappoint.

Straightforward Install

Thanks to light construction and simple design, this starter doesn’t take a mechanic to set up.

You can make it work without being an expert, while still enjoying the performance and overall efficiency it offers.

And if you add its magnificent compatibility with the 7.3 Powerstroke, then it is a steal.

Decent Durability

For such an excellent cost, you’re unlikely to find a more reliable starter than this.

Without having high-end components that cost a fortune, this one can handle even the toughest operations with such a powerful engine.

What We Liked

• Incredibly affordable for its performance
• Works well with high-cranking systems
• Delivers superb reliability
• Anyone can set it up

What We Didn’t Like

• Has a few fragile parts

How to Test a Starter Solenoid

If you have a starter for a 7.3 diesel engine that’s not working properly, there’s a high chance it is the solenoid failing.

Here, we’ll show you how to check if it is indeed the solenoid, so you can eventually replace it if necessary. Follow these steps:

01. Locate the Solenoid

First off, locate where the solenoid is located. You will need to open the hood and find the starter (which has the solenoid).

The solenoid looks like a small cylinder on the starter side or top. It should have a few terminals connected to it. One of those terminals is the battery.

02. Look for the Click Sound

Now you can check whether it is indeed the starter (solenoid) the problem.

Here, you will have to check by turning the key (trying to start the engine).

When the key is turned, you should hear a clicking sound from the starter.

If the solenoid is failing, you won’t hear a clicking sound coming from the starter motor.

In some cases, the clicking sound is there, but not engaging.

If the sound is there, but the starter doesn’t engage, you probably have a battery problem.

You will need to test it out with a voltmeter.

03. Install a Test Light

If you’ve successfully checked for the clicking and it’s not there, then you must check whether it is the battery or the solenoid.

To check this, you need to use a test light connected to the solenoid terminal.

Get the red lead onto the top solenoid terminal (usually the one the battery connects to), and the black lead of the test light needs to be grounded.

If the light turns on when you connect the test light, then it means the battery is sending electricity. In that case, it is the solenoid failing.

If it doesn’t, then it is a problem with the battery and not the solenoid. So you should fix that instead.

04. Test the Solenoid

Now that you’re sure that the battery is indeed sending electricity (if the light turns on), then you should check whether the solenoid is sending the signal.

Here, instead of connecting the red lead to the top terminal, you need to place it on the lower one.

Once again, turn the key on and see whether the light turns on or not.

If the light turns on after connecting to the lower terminal, then the solenoid is working properly (sending the signal to the lower terminal that connects to the starter directly).

Otherwise, it is the solenoid that’s failing. In that case, you will need to replace it.

05. Connect a Voltmeter to Test

In case the light turns on after checking the solenoid, the electricity is probably not enough. So you need to check with a voltmeter now.

Again, connect the voltmeter positive lead to the terminal on the battery. Then click the other lead to the terminal.

This will let you know how much electricity goes from the battery to the solenoid.

If the voltmeter shows less than 12 volts (going from the battery to the solenoid), then it is the battery not sending enough charge.

If the voltmeter shows more than 12 volts, then turn the engine on with the voltmeter connected.

This should draw all the energy from the solenoid.

If the voltage doesn’t diminish, then it is a problem within the starter and the battery connection.

DIY: How to Install a Starter Solenoid?

Did you test the solenoid and found out it is not working properly? Then you’ll have to replace it. Here’s a brief guide on how to do that:

01. Prepare the Vehicle

Start by locating the starter motor. It is usually located close to the engine on the driver’s side.

Once you’ve found it, separate cables and other parts that cover it. This should let you have direct access to it.

Then you may need to lift the vehicle up with a jack. Put jack stands below to keep it stable while working.

02. Disconnect It

Once you’ve prepared the car, you should proceed to take it out. Here, start by disconnecting the negative cable from the battery first.

Then you can remove the cables, wires, and other pieces connected to the starter. Note these things down so you can put them back correctly later on.

03. Remove It

After disconnecting cables and wires, then you can proceed to make brackets, bolts, and other pieces out.

This should release the starter motor from its mounting area.

Then you can take it off. Just remember to place everything close and organized close so you can put them back later properly.

04. Replace the Solenoid

With the starter motor out, you can now remove the solenoid from it more easily.

In most starter motors, you just need to unscrew it off with a screwdriver.

Some have brackets and locks you will need to take off as well.

Grab the new solenoid and set it up on the starter now. You’ve replaced the solenoid.

05. Put Everything Back

You haven’t finished, though. It is now time to install the starter on the vehicle again. Here, follow the same steps 1 to 3 but backward.

Start by placing the motor back, screwing, bracketing, and bolting it on its mounting area.

Then proceed to connect all the cables, wires, and components back.

Finish by lowering the vehicle and reorganizing the other parts of the car as they were.

7.3 Powerstroke Starter Upgrade: Buying Factors

If you’re looking for the best starter for 7.3 Powerstroke, then a list of reviews won’t suffice.

You also need to learn what to look for in each model. And for that, the following section will help you enormously.

• Types of Starters

First and foremost, you should learn about the different starters available out there. Here, you’ll find five types to think about:

Direct Drive Starter (DD)

This is the typical starter found in most engines. It is not common to find this starter on F-Series Powerstroke engines.

Because it is a little slower and can handle less power than a true Powerstroke starter, it is not a usual option.

But it still works as a replacement if necessary.

Planetary Gear (PLGR)

A more common starter on Powerstroke 7.3L engines is the PLGR. Also known as the Planetary Gear starter, it is a faster and slightly more powerful alternative to the direct-drive starter.

This one is actually replacing the DD in most cases, including high-powered engines like the Powerstroke.

Permanent Magnet Gear Reduction (PMGR)

Another typical choice for Powerstroke engines is the PMGR. It is a version of the PLGR but with a lighter and most heat-dissipating construction.

This was designed to increase efficiency and reduce wear on the starter. These perform almost as well as PLGR starters but with a slightly more fragile build.

Permanent Magnet Direct Drive (PMDD)

Very similar to the DD starter, but using magnets that improve overall efficiency, speed, and durability – the PMDD is also not popular among Powerstroke users.

 Off-Set Gear Reduction (OSGR)

Lastly, you’ll find the OSGR, an easier-to-install, and highly efficient alternative to PLGR models.

This starter can increase torque and starting speed.

It is also one of the most recent types of starter created. It is ideal for the Powerstroke engine thanks to its ability to handle high-speed and high-torque engines.

• Torque

Depending on the torque the starter can handle, you can guess how fast it will heat up and how much compression it can take.

For that, you must consider the compression ratio of the Powerstroke and how well the starter can match it.

For example, a typical starter for this engine should offer at least 200 ft-lbs of total torque.

That’s how far you can take the engine when using this starter without causing wear.

• Voltage Requirements

Not all starters can handle the same voltage or power that a Powerstroke delivers. So it needs to be good enough to handle what the engine offers, or else it will wear out faster.

At the same time, this will tell you how well it will work with the engine.

Low voltages will also provide less responsiveness and may even affect the starting speed.

Here, you should try to get 12V starters with no less than 3.6kW. You can pick models with up to 4.0kW, and that should be enough.

• Housing Material & Build

Apart from overall compatibility and designs, you should consider the quality of the starter build.

Here, you will find materials going from aluminum to steel and even iron.

For a Powerstroke, it is vital to get something that can handle the heat and power it offers.

That’s why cast metals are the best choice you can get in that case.

It is not only the material, though. Starters need to be well-sealed and prevent any type of damage from external factors.

Be sure to consider that if you want the most out of the engine for as long as possible.

• Components Quality

On top of getting excellent housing, you also need reliable components. Things like the solenoid, bushings, brushes, and terminals are all critical for the durability of a starter.

Make sure the ones you’re getting offers all of that.

Especially when it comes to the solenoid, you’ll want a pristine and brand-new solenoid that can handle heavy charges.

If that happens, then you’re likely to get a starter that lasts enough time.

Other things like an armature, drive gear, and similar stuff also matter. In short words, just be sure to get the highest quality possible.

This will ensure maximum durability and prevent issues in the short term.

Best Starter For 7.3 Powerstroke: Most Online Queries 

Even though you’ve read our buying guide and learned all about the best starter for 7.3 Powerstroke with our reviews, you may still have some doubts about them.

In this section, we want to relieve them. Take a look:

How does an engine starter work?

So, how does a starter gets an engine to start? Well, it’s simple. The starter is an electric motor.

Its purpose is to create a current that an engine can use to start.

When you turn the ignition of the truck on, the starter receives an electric shock from the battery.

This electricity is then turned into usable energy by the engine, which eventually attaches the rest of the starting system to create the spark.

What are the symptoms of a bad starter?

A starter does not last forever. In some cases, it may start to fail out of nowhere. And when that happens, you will experience at least one of these symptoms:

• Clicking noises or no noises at all when starting the vehicle
• The lights turn on in the car but nothing else
• You see the engine coming out of the bump when trying to start the car
• The starter clicks once and initiates the engine cranking unsuccessfully
• It looks burned or soaked in oil (which probably means it needs replacement)

In most of these situations, we heavily recommend testing it first before replacing or fixing it. This will save you time and effort over time.

How much for a starter motor replacement?

Replacing a starter motor can cost anywhere from $100 to $500. It depends on the complexity of your vehicle and the type of starter you want to install.

Luckily, you can always install it yourself for no extra cost.

Do I need a new starter for 7.3 Powerstroke?

If you try starting your truck but only hear a clicking sound or no sound at all, then there’s a high chance the starter is not working. In that case, you probably need a new starter for the Powerstroke.

Is it better to replace a starter if faulty?

Yes, replacing a starter when it starts to fail is a must in almost every situation.

But because doing so, it is still heavily recommended to test the starter, battery, and other electrical parts before doing his.

You don’t want to spend money on a replacement unnecessarily.

Where is the starter located on a Powerstroke?

The starter is located close to the engine on the passenger side.

In some cases, the starter is on the side of the driver. Either way, it is close to the frame cross-member under the vehicle.

What is the Powerstroke 7.3L?

We’ve talked about starters for the Powerstroke 7.3L. But do you know what that engine really is?

This is a high-power, high-torque, and heavy-duty engine specially designed for the F-Series trucks from Ford.

It was originally built for models in the 90. But you may still find some F-Series trucks with this engine today.

Why was the Powerstroke 7.3 discontinued?

The original production of the Powerstroke was discontinued in 2003 because the 6.0L version came into the market.

Because the new one was a more efficient, greener, quieter, and still the high-power engine, Ford decided to reduce the manufacturing of the 7.3L engine.

How much does a 7.3 Powerstroke last?

A Powerstroke 7.3 engine boats super-sturdy iron parts and a heavy-duty construction all around.

That’s why you’re likely to get amazing durability from one of these, meaning decades of use with little effort.

Typically, a Powerstroke can handle at least 400,000 miles or more.

Conclusion

Finding an ideal starter for your F-Series truck shouldn’t be a nightmare.

If you’re having trouble with that, then you’re probably glad to have found this article.

Remember to follow our advice and consider every review for the best starter for 7.3 Powerstroke.

No matter the starter you get from the list, we’re sure you will get a satisfying experience.