FORD RL3Z-16720-S Nameplate

( Manufacturer Part Number: RL3Z-16720-S ), ( Genuine Oem: Yes ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year ), ( Fitment Type: Direct Replacement ), ( Parts Included: Only Part Reference 2 On The Diagram Is Included )

Review FORD Genuine Nameplate Rl3z16720s

The **Ford RL3Z-16720-S Nameplate (RL3Z16720S)** is a precision-engineered, high-performance automotive nameplate designed exclusively for Ford s advanced powertrain systems, particularly those found in modern turbocharged and direct-injection gasoline engines. This nameplate serves as a critical component in the engine s electronic control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM), housing essential identification and calibration data that ensures seamless integration with the vehicle s onboard diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control systems. Crafted from durable, corrosion-resistant materials, the nameplate is laser-etched with a unique alphanumeric code **RL3Z-16720-S** which corresponds to a specific engine variant, likely part of Ford s EcoBoost or PowerBoost lineup, where performance, efficiency, and reliability are paramount. The design incorporates a sleek, compact form factor optimized for installation within the engine bay s confined spaces, often mounted near the ECM or on the engine block itself for easy access during diagnostics or reprogramming. Beyond its functional role, the nameplate acts as a vital reference point for technicians, enabling quick identification of the engine s calibration version, software revision, and compatibility with Ford s diagnostic tools like Ford Edge or OBD-II scanners. Whether installed in a high-output V6 or a twin-turbo V8, this nameplate ensures that the engine operates at peak efficiency while adhering to stringent emissions regulations, making it an indispensable part of Ford s commitment to performance and precision engineering.

The **Ford RL3Z-16720-S** nameplate refers to a **Ford 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine**, specifically the **2003 2003.5 model year** (later versions were updated to **RL3Z-16720** without the "-S" suffix). This engine was used in **Ford F-Series trucks (F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550)** and **E-Series vans. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

---

### **Pros of the Ford RL3Z-16720-S (7.3L Power Stroke)**

1. **Proven Reliability (Early Years)**

- The **2003 2003.5 RL3Z-16720-S** was Ford s first **common-rail diesel** in the Power Stroke lineup, offering **better fuel efficiency and torque** compared to the older **7.3L LML (mechanical fuel injection)**.

- Many owners report **fewer major issues** than the **6.0L Power Stroke (2003 2007)**, which had widespread **injector and turbocharger failures**.

- The **turbocharger (Garrett T66)** was less prone to catastrophic failure compared to the **6.0L s T66/T66 **, though it still required proper maintenance.

2. **Good Fuel Economy for a Diesel Truck**

- In **cruising conditions**, the **7.3L Power Stroke** delivered **better MPG than the 6.0L** (around **8 12 MPG highway** in a properly maintained truck).

- More efficient than **pre-2003 7.3L LML** engines, which were known for **poor fuel economy**.

3. **Simpler Turbocharger & Injector Design (Compared to 6.0L)**

- The **7.3L s turbocharger (T66)** was **less complex** than the **6.0L s T66 **, reducing the risk of **turbo failure** if maintained properly.

- **Common-rail fuel system** was **more reliable than the 6.0L s unit injectors**, though **fuel pump failures** could still occur.

4. **Lower Cost of Ownership (Compared to 6.0L)**

- **Parts were cheaper** than the **6.0L Power Stroke**, especially **turbochargers, injectors, and fuel pumps**.

- **Less aftermarket support** than the **6.0L**, but **easier to find OEM parts** for basic repairs.

5. **Good Torque for Heavy-Duty Work**

- **Peak torque of 400 lb-ft** (depending on year) was sufficient for **towing and hauling** in a **F-250/F-350**.

- **Smooth power delivery** compared to the **jerky response** of some older diesel engines.

6. **Easier to Modify (Compared to 6.0L)**

- **Less complex EEC-IV tuning** than the **6.0L**, making **performance mods (like turbo upgrades) more straightforward**.

- **No known major software glitches** like the **6.0L s "limp mode" issues**.

7. **Good for Off-Road & Heavy Use**

- **Durable block and crankshaft** made it suitable for **off-road and extreme towing** if maintained.

- **Less prone to catastrophic failure** than the **6.0L s injectors** if **fuel system issues were addressed early**.

---

### **Cons of the Ford RL3Z-16720-S (7.3L Power Stroke)**

1. **Fuel System Reliability Issues**

- **Fuel pump failures** were common, often leading to **hard starting or no-start conditions**.

- **Common-rail injectors** could **clog or fail**, requiring **cleaning or replacement** (though not as bad as the **6.0L s unit injectors**).

- **Fuel filter separators (FFS) and water traps** needed **frequent inspection** to prevent **fuel system contamination**.

2. **Turbocharger Wear & Failure**

- While **less prone to failure than the 6.0L**, the **T66 turbo could still fail** due to **oil starvation, poor maintenance, or high loads**.

- **Wastegate leaks** were a known issue, leading to **reduced boost and poor performance**.

3. **Exhaust Manifold & Head Gasket Problems**

- **Exhaust manifolds** were **prone to cracking**, especially on **high-mileage engines**.

- **Head gasket failures** could occur, leading to **overheating and coolant leaks** (though not as common as in the **6.0L**).

4. **Limited Aftermarket Support**

- **Fewer performance parts** compared to the **6.0L Power Stroke**, making **big power mods** more difficult.

- **Less tuning software** available than for the **6.0L**, limiting **fuel economy and power gains**.

5. **Emissions & DPF Issues (Later Models)**

- **2004 models** introduced **DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) and EGR systems**, which could **clog and cause drivability issues**.

- **EGR cooler failures** were a known problem, leading to **overheating and reduced performance**.

6. **Transmission & Drivetrain Compatibility**

- **4R100/4R70W transmissions** were **not as robust** as the **6R140** (introduced in **2004**), leading to **early wear in high-torque applications**.

- **Differential and axle failures** were more common than in **modern Ford diesels**.

7. **Resale Value & Market Demand**

- **Lower demand** compared to **6.0L or 6.7L Power Strokes**, making **trade-ins less valuable**.

- **Harder to find parts** for **rare or discontinued components**.

8. **Noise & Vibration**

- **Louder than modern diesels** due to **less refined turbo and exhaust systems**.

- **More vibration** in **high-RPM cruising** compared to **6.0L or 6.7L engines**.

9. **Electrical & Sensor Failures**

- **Oxygen sensors, MAF sensors, and crankshaft position sensors** could **fail prematurely**, leading to **check engine lights**.

- **EEC-IV software glitches** could cause **intermittent issues** (though not as severe as the **6.0L s limp mode**).

10. **Limited Longevity Compared to Modern Diesels**

- **Not built to the same durability standards** as **6.7L Power Strokes (2009 )** or **7.3L (2011 )**.

- **More wear-prone components** (turbo, injectors, fuel pump) **without proper maintenance**.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **Ford RL3Z-16720-S (7.3L Power Stroke, 2003 2003.5)** is a **solid but flawed diesel engine**. It offers **better reliability than the 6.0L in some areas** (turbo, injectors) but **suffers from fuel system weaknesses, turbo issues, and limited aftermarket support**. It is **a good choice for buyers who:**

- Want **a simple, fuel-efficient diesel** for **light to moderate towing**.

- Can **budget for fuel system maintenance** (pumps, injectors, filters).

- Prefer **lower upfront costs** compared to a **6.0L or 6.7L Power Stroke**.

- Are **not looking for extreme power or modern durability**.

- **Heavy-duty towing (over 10,000 lbs)** without **major modifications**.

- **Owners who want long-term reliability** (modern **6.7L or 7.3L** engines are better).

- **Those who plan to modify the engine aggressively** (limited aftermarket support).

- **Buyers who want a low-maintenance, high-resale-value diesel**.

---

### **Recommendation**

1. **Buy from a Reputable Seller**

- Look for a **truck with low miles (under 150,000)** and **proper maintenance records**.

- **Avoid high-mileage examples** unless you are **prepared for major repairs**.

2. **Inspect Critical Components**

- **Fuel system:** Check for **fuel pump leaks, injector spray patterns, and fuel filter condition**.

- **Turbocharger:** Listen for **whine or excessive exhaust noise** (signs of turbo wear).

- **Exhaust manifolds:** Look for **cracks or leaks**.

- **Transmission & drivetrain:** Ensure **no fluid leaks or unusual noises**.

3. **Budget for Maintenance**

- **Fuel pump replacement ( $1,0

Details:

We care about helping you get the correct part for your vehicle first time, quickly. Parts must be resalable and in the original packaging. Shipping Carrier substitutions may be made at our determination in an attempt to reduce shipping cost the customer. Electrical parts are not returnable.

part #: rl3z16720 prices

• $165.00-$221.62

specifications emblico:

• for makes: Ford
• mpn: Rl3z-16720-s
• genuine oem: Yes
• manufacturer warranty: 1 Year
• fitment type: Direct Replacement
• parts included: Only Part Reference 2 On The Diagram Is Included

seller emblico:

• rating: 99.5%
• city: Glendale, Arizona
• # reviews: 3235

returns emblico:

• policy: Returns Accepted
• paid by: Seller
• time: 30 Days

general emblico:

• Car Truck Parts Accessories > Exterior Parts Accessories > Emblems Ornaments
• condition: New

offer emblico:

• options: Ship-to-home
• availability: In Stock
• sold: 0
• quantity: 1
• started: February 2, 2026

payments emblico:

• wallet: Apple-pay
• other
• credit card: Visa

shipping emblico:

• type: Fixed
• transit: 3-9 Days
• cost: $0.00
• service: Standard, Expedited, Overnight
• class: Standard, Expedited, One-day

Ford RL3Z-16720 Is Similar To:

• 1973-1977 Ford Fender Emblem Genuine Oem Badge Sign Symbol Logo (36.7% similar) 1 used genuine oem emblem fits ford F250SOME wear, no damages...(March 15th, 2018)
• 1l2z-7842528-ka Ford Expedition Explorer Taurus Eddie Bauer Emblem Nameplate Oem Badge (31.8% similar) There is a product inspection with third party upon receiving the item. Please ship the item back in its original package. If the item was damaged on return shipping due to poor packaging, is not accepted. Please match our part number with your original one...(January 30th, 2019)
• 1l5z-9842528-aa Ford Oem Sport Track Genuine Nameplate (46% similar) Package is scuffed and marked. Genuine ford part in factory sealed original package. Part inside is in excellent condition...(October 26th, 2018)
• 2m5z-6404-ba Ford Powered By Svt Emblem Focus Genuine Part Number (34.2% similar) Measures x ford part number 2M5Z-6404-BA is obsolete and no longer available from or the dealers. Brand new with 3m adhesive backer. These are leftovers from the SVT focus program. This offer is for an aluminum oem ford factory emblem. This is for the ford focus SVT coil plug cover in engine...(October 8th, 2018)
• 37tb-16b114-ab E7tb-16702-da Ford Oem Factory Original Genuine Stock Fomoco Xlt Lariat Fender (28.8% similar) Genuine ford factory used part selling a very good f XLT lariat fender emblem set 4 PCs total chrome finish plastic overall condition chrome shows some normal light expected wear - nothing too major review photos above to better assess cosmetic condition all backside mounting pins intact on emblems ...(April 4th, 2019)
• 3w1z8213aa Ford Genuine Emblem (42.1% similar) Lincoln town car grill emblem...(April 4th, 2018)
• 4f2z1742528ba Mercury Ford Monterey Emblem Badge Nameplate Oem Used (33.6% similar) Used oem good condition...(November 3rd, 2018)
• 4l34-16b114-jc Ford Lariat Triton Emblem Badge Decal Fender Oem Factory Genuine (22.4% similar) 25 tall the condition is: good emblem is all chrome, please ignore reflections in picture this attachment method adhesive 2 pins note: not included with purchase. I do my best to list the correct information in offers but am not always right...(March 19th, 2018)
• 4l3z-16720-aa Ford Nameplate Emblem Nos (56.5% similar) Up for sale is. Using USPS or FedEx delivery in the continental lower USA. Its still sealed in its bag and great condition...(September 28th, 2018)
• 5030379aa Ford Genuine Oem Mopar Jeep Dodge Chrysler Srt Decal Emblem (33% similar) Title: brand new oem genuine Mopar jeep dodge Chrysler Set 10 SRT-10 decal emblem nameplate 05030379AA note: this factory fits all vehicles: STR10 that is a direct replacement for the vehicles listed in fitment guide below...(September 16th, 2018)
• 5182065aa Ford Genuine Oem Ram Charger Dodge Jeep Chrysler Chrome Hemi (29.3% similar) Title: brand new oem Mopar genuine ram charger dodge jeep Chrysler chrome hem decal emblem nameplate: that is a direct factory replacement for the vehicles listed in fitment guide below...(September 16th, 2018)