Diesel engines are pretty much considered the king of powertrains. When you’re browsing through used trucks at your local Ford dealer, finding a diesel option is like finding a golden ticket. Instead of getting a tour of a candy company, you get the chance to own a powerhouse of torque and efficiency.

Sadly, not all used trucks come with this kind of powertrain, so it helps to know which models have this technology on board.

What Makes a Diesel So Great?

Even if you’ve never looked at how a diesel engine works, you know that it’s something special. This engine actually dates back to 1893 when Rudolf Diesel figured out how to use compression to create ignition in an engine. Gasoline engines combine air and fuel into the engine. A spark is created that ignites that mixture and forces the movement of the piston and crankshaft. This movement triggers the transmission to turn the wheels.

A diesel engine is similar. Instead of using a spark, it uses extreme compression to ignite the diesel-air mixture spontaneously. This kind of reaction would completely destroy a gas engine.

Drivers who put a lot of miles on their used trucks tend to prefer diesel engines since these powertrains are more efficient than gas engines. Diesel fuel packs a stronger punch per gallon. Diesel engines also tend to last longer than gas engines. This durability is because there are fewer overall parts and generally require less maintenance.

Ford Takes Diesel To A New Level

Many of Ford’s diesel engines not only use efficient and powerful diesel tech, but they also use turbocharging technology to deliver more bang for your buck. Instead of blowing exhaust fumes into the air, turbodiesels utilize exhaust pressure to rotate a turbine. This turbine powers a compressor that pressurizes new air that’s added into the combustion chamber.

The end result is higher performance ratings. You can get as much power from a smaller turbo engine when compared to a larger non-turbo option. Exhaust is also used to help slow your vehicle down through Ford’s innovative exhaust brake system. This helps reduce wear and tear on your brake system and better regulates your speed when going downhill.

There Are Plenty of Used Trucks With This Tech

As your searching for your next pre-owned pickup truck, keep an eye out for these models that often come with diesel options. If you’re not sure, contact your local Ford dealer to double-check.

Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is pretty much the flagship pickup in the Ford lineup. You can equip your F-150 with a 3.0-liter power stroke turbo diesel V6. This beast offers 250 horsepower and 440 lb0ft of torque, which means a max payload of 1,840 pounds and max towing of 12,100 pounds.

Most mid and upper-level F-150 trims have the option to add the diesel engine.

Ford Super Duty

Drivers looking for the ultimate work truck love the F-250 and F-350. These trucks are collectively known as Super Duty trucks. These pickups can be equipped with a Herculean 6.7-liter power stroke V8 turbo diesel engine. This powerhouse offers 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. That means your payload maxes out at 24,200 pounds, which easily earns the Best-in-Class award.

Get More From Your Ford

One of Ford’s perks of shopping for used trucks is that you get a quality machine with plenty of life left. That life is only extended when you find one with an incredible diesel engine. Make sure to check out older trucks as well, as you might find some other options that fit your needs.

If nothing else, spend some time exploring your local Ford dealer’s website to see what kind of diesel options are waiting for you. Your wallet will thank you in the long run.