More things 6.9/7.3 IDI owners should know part 2

Some more quick tips for my fellow idi drivers

[@ryang7437]

Just bought a 1987 F250 dually with the 6.9, my first diesel I've ever owned I hope I get a lot of good years out of it. Great info, thanks!

[@zach341]

Same!!

[@skyhager5953]

How's it been working for you?

[@stephenmarton7631]

I'm a little OCD and the upside down engine oil cap is driving me crazy hahahaha

[@howtocreatesculptures6713]

It was bothering me too i guess i am OCD also LOLOL its the stupidest little things isn't it ? : )

[@keithmcfee9510]

710 cap

[@deleteduser3749]

@@keithmcfee9510 that was a funny Blond Joke. I miss jokes. 😂

[@StevanRounds]

these are great no-nonsense info. Keep up the good job!!

[@socaldiesel]

This vid and part 1 is a must watch for any IDI owner!

[@henryhb6302]

I’m a 16 year old who just bought a 1984 f-250 for $800. It was sitting out in a forest. Though the body, paint and frame are relatively good, the motor had 3 gallons of water in it and was stuck beyond repair. So I took another motor, also a 6.9, out of an ambulance, and found it also had water in it, and was also stuck. As of now, I have just finished rebuilding the top end, and it is unstuck and put back together. In my opinion, it is a pretty tight motor, but again, I am just a 16 year old with zero experience with these motors. I have done a few rebuilds on some other FE motors, but nothing like this. Thanks for the great info @Mike Green !!

[@guitarscadillacs5049]

I'm 17 and I just bought a 93 7.3, it sat for 10 years and we just threw batteries in it and it fired up... They are extremely well built engines and if taken care of they will last forever.

[@coopie_7.3]

I’m 16 and bought my 93 7.3 IDI one thing I wish is that it was a power stroke the IDI‘s are a lot of work I changed oil I put deisel additive new glow plugs just some other things the IDI’s are wild

[@guitarscadillacs5049]

@@coopie_7.3 that's cool that there are three teenagers with "new" 7.3s and 6.9s, I will say that I like the IDIs alot better than the powerstroke. But they are both really cool..

[@coopie_7.3]

@@guitarscadillacs5049 they are both rlly cool engines

[@max07162]

Excellent video, I have never owned a diesel. Looking at buying a 89 7.3 idi, I learned a lot from your video

[@groundtogreen1140]

Marc Krout that's why they are here glad this helped

[@charleshammer3466]

Thanks for the vid. I have a 1986 F250 I bought in 2006 from the original owner. Videos like yours and others' keep me inspired to take care of my rig and ride it out rather than get a newer truck. I use it regularly with my landscaping company. Ive never installed a turbo, and with how slow she accelerates compared with everyone else on the road except a fully loaded log truck, I would love the upgrade.

[@jefferyepstein9210]

They are slow but hey why be in a hurry anyway lol

[@Jagg61]

Nothing wrong with a dit

[@MrTheHillfolk]

Back in the day a buddies dad had an 86 and we used to laugh on how slow it was. We didn't laugh when it didn't get much slower pulling a 30' airstream

[@marcogram1216]

Great videos. Appreciate the FREE advise.

[@backyardbraaapn1017]

*advice

[@michaelcuff5780]

Oh I learned something from a trans guy! If the trans wont shift right try the throttle position sensor. I thought my trans was done and it was the tps.

[@DannyWalker1949]

Thanks for the Very Good Tip's you have in Both of your video's. Thank's Again👍🏽

[@RBMServices]

great video!! I have a 93 7.3 with banks sidewinder as my regular driver bought it from the original owner with 190000 now have 250,000 and i have done all that you have recommended when i had originally bought it as well as rebuild my db2 pump and rebuild my e40d trans

[@michaelbenoit248]

On the additive, if you have a pretty good supply of used motor oil, throw on a 2nd filter housing, & have a 2nd cat filter for it, these things can run on %100 motor oil.

[@michaelbenoit248]

An electric fuel pump on these helps a lot. I had some pretty bad air issues & when I found out at work/coming home all I did was turn the key on/pump, & after the air was gone it started & made it home fine. I’ve since fixed the issue, & I’ve got one more delete to do, but not quite yet until I have too.

[@josephvanas6352]

just got an 83 f250 with the 6.9 IDI, need to dive the thing home a couple hours but after that once I get the other other project car out of the garage its time to go over it with a fine tooth comb and get that motor running just a treat.

[@carolinatrailriders5694]

Hey man! I love the idi so had to subscribe to your channel! I would like to know more about your coolant filtration setup so if you could do a video on that it would be great. Lookin forward to seeing more videos about your trucks.

[@groundtogreen1140]

yea I'll try to do one on that

[@zaveleabrown2694]

Thanks for the info that helps

[@ryandelcourt4774]

bro ty been learning a lot of this on my own

[@immikeurnot]

The Ford IDI trucks have 20 gallon tanks, you should be using 6 oz of Diesel Kleen per tankful. 2 stroke oil honestly does more harm than good, because it can leave deposits in injectors and I've seen lab tests that show it doesn't lubricate better than untreated ULSD. The lubricant in Diesel Kleen is enough to make up for ULSD's lack of lubricity

[@madogllewellyn]

I'll attest to that as well....I have a 92 7.3 (260K) IDI F350 and 2000 F350 7.3 (347k) Powerstroke either Kleen or Amsoil fuel treatments are needed....

[@carlfox15]

Is this because of diesel bacteria

[@deepbludude4697]

Thanks for posting these videos, I'm picking up an 89F250 7.3 IDI w 5 spd 52kmiles, trading my 78 CJ7 for it. it will sit nice next to my 79F250 4x4

[@michaelosmon]

I just bought an 89 F-350 with a 16’ Uhaul box on the back, it has 226k miles on a 7.3 with a C6 trans. This thing is slow but when it’s warmed up it runs amazing. Unfortunately there are a lot of stupid little things like the drivers seat belt doesn’t retract. Hard to start in the morning and it’s been above 70 degrees every day since I bought it. I know basically nothing about Diesel engines so I’m about to watch most of your vids.

[@adamlodzinski4808]

Just got a 93 7.3 idi 240,000 miles runs great shifted like junk adjusted my fipl now shifts like a dream runs cool as shit I love it going to turbo her soon

[@williskeesel6049]

What's the fipl? And how do you adjust it? What does it do?

[@davidk7544]

Oh! meant to ask - what fuel injectors do you like? What do you notice after using your fuel additive and the 2-stoke addition to fuel? What injectors do you like? PLease keep up the videos! i know there's more you can cover!

[@deepbludude4697]

Mike, excellent videos my recently trade for 89 7.3 is running strong previous owner re did return lines and GP's should I hear a loud GP relay click when starting? (I don't) but she seems to start fine course I'm in floida and temp has not dropped below 50....I have not confirmed with test light. Thanks for all the effort you take loading these videos....

[@howtocreatesculptures6713]

Thanks Mike !!!

[@BigJfan]

Don't over tension the alternator belt or it will throw all of the other belts off. Carry spare fuel injector return cap o-rings and a 5/8" Wrench at all times. If you live in a cold climate, always use the original spring type hose clamps on the return lines. Otherwise they tend to allow air into the system usually categorised by a quick start and stall and followed by a lot of cranking. Make certain to run a good heavy ground wire to the glow plug controller when you relocate it to the fender well for a turbo install. There is an ambient temperature sensor for the glow plugs located behind one of the headlights. Use Howes or Marvel or Seafoam in the fuel to aid in lubricity. Some people have had great luck with hydraulic fluid. The LUK single mass clutch kit is a direct replacement and works well. If you can afford it,update the 100 amp alternator to the 130 amp alternator found on the powerstroke. Much better unit. Certain years had a battery cable issue easily fixed with new lugs. If it hasn't blown a right side head gasket by 85,000 miles you have no worries. Put Napa Kool in the cooling system if you run green. Otherwise run Fleetcharge SCA preloaded. If you plan on pushing one over 350 hp plan on using a CAC. Water drop kits work well on these engines too. The injection pumps don't respond well to sitting. Start the engine every month at least.

[@groundtogreen1140]

interesting extra advice hadn't heard of the 85k hg issue any correlation causing that?

[@BigJfan]

@@groundtogreen1140 been a long time since these were popular. My cousin was the shop foreman at a Ford dealership. He saw it all. These are great engines. The OBS trucks were great as well. I've had my 91' for twenty some years and 300,000 plus miles. In that time this is what I've learned. 91' F-350 Lariat Diesel,5spd ,Hypermax turbo, propane,meth kit, 4" exhaust,9" lift,ladder bars,40" Super Swampers.

[@Jagg61]

Power service additive is very good. I ran it in my cats, Cummins and Detroit's. Every 3rd fill up. I got better mileage. Especially in winter when all truck fuel is crappy.

[@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469]

I’ve got a TDI and I need to get myself this stuff, lol.

[@Jagg61]

@@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469 I used it in my tdi and now dit

[@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469]

@@Jagg61 ? What does DIT mean?

[@Jagg61]

@@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469 direct injection turbo

[@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469]

@@Jagg61 Subaru DIT? Cause those 2 liters are fucking solid.

[@jonthreet2281]

I really enjoyed your videos as I just bought a 1986 E350 Ford box van with a 6.9 L Diesel that leaked fuel from every plastic injector cover/fuel return. I rebuilt the injectors replaced all 8 burned glow plugs and spent a week cleaning the sludge from the top and sides of the engine and engine compartment. My current problem is that I need a wiring diagram for the engine I have several unattached wires with identical ends that could be easily hooked to the wrong component. I bought a Ford authorized factory Service Manual on CD that covers EVERYTHING but the engine wiring and wiring diagrams. Can anyone help? Thanks Jon Threet

[@MIKEDUZZI420]

A dragging starter or a bad battery can cause that engine not to start too. I saw my dad replace injectors and a injection pump and it was still exactly like before and hard to start. We put a photo tach on and found it was not cranking fast enough. We put a new starter and new batteries ad it busted right off.

[@avoidtheherd7066]

You don't need starting fluid if you plug in the block heater for two hours. That equals a warm engine start.

[@pmcginnis02]

Mike- You add 3/4 to 1 quart of 2 cycle oil every time you fill up on diesel? I have a F250 1994 idi turbo diesel. How much should I add to each tank?

[@sabbath7081]

I usually use an additive in the winter but during hot temperatures I use marvel mystery oil in the fuel because I heard that the treatment and additive also makes the diesel burn hotter is this true? and what do you think of marvel mystery oil as a diesel fuel additive?

[@thomaslockley945]

I've never thought of that but that a good idea to use wd 40 or something but I use deisel

[@adamreed6287]

Thanks for the info mike. Ive been watching a number of your videos as well as others. Im a tech at a ford dealer and work on mostly 6.0 and 6.7 fords. I love it! But i have never touched an idi. Today one of my buddies offered to give me his 1986 f250 6.9 and i will be picking it up this week. Supposedly a shop put in an injection pump and couldnt get it going. Another shop said they screwed it up. I was wondering if there is a keyway, or timing marks on the injec pump gear or any way to verify correct timing. Is it possible to have the injec pump 180 out or anything of that sort? I will be picking up the fuel injection repair kit deal that has the seals in it and checking for aeration in fuel or fuel leaks. Are there any good sources for manuals? Our current online ford shop manual only goes down to 1992. thanks! Adam

[@groundtogreen1140]

Yes the injection pump has to be lined up Y to Y on the pump and cam gears. Hard to see but you can kinda get in there with pump gear housing off , a bright light, and an inspection mirror. Ebay is your best bet for a manual that's where I got mine for my factory turbo idi

[@ungratefulpeasant8085]

Thanks for the video, I dont know much about the 6.9 idi, most of my experience has been on cummins. I'm in the market for a diesel an want to pick something up that I can work on.

[@groundtogreen1140]

Westwind Survival well if ya know the basics very simple engines. Na kinda gutless but torquey and reliable. Be sure to sub and check out my other videos

[@ungratefulpeasant8085]

Mike Grn. The basics are the same across all engines. Just looking into the specifics of these particular ones at the moment, seeing what needs to be done besides gaskets, belts, and fluids.

[@groundtogreen1140]

Westwind Survival if you plan to run any forced induction on a 6.9 I highly recommend head studs because they had the smaller head Fastener size than a 7.3 L. Early 6.9 blocks had an issue with the block heater cracking the block itself issue was fixed halfway through 84 so I recommend people that do buy a 6.9 buy a later series engine or use an inline heater. Besides that if you're pretty familiar with a diesel already there's not too much else to tell you. Obviously all the fuel lines need to be airtight . If you have any stupid silly questions go ahead and comment or you can always email me at me [e-mail]

[@ungratefulpeasant8085]

Mike Grn Thanks, Ill be sure to keep that in mind.

[@darrellkidd8428]

What causes the brakes to leak down on a 1992 Ford F250 7.3

[@collinowen7030]

What do you consider to be "overheat" coolant temps for this and what about EGT limits for backing off?

[@mackenzielemay5754]

I bought a 49022 dura lift pump brand new fuel lines by passed rear tank a new oem fuel filter and my fuel filter light comes on every time u give it fuel

[@jadinzack9271]

What kind of oil pressures are you getting on a 6.9?

[@bostonfilth5478]

Should I steer clear of an 85 6.9 that has a glow plug bypass button in the cab? I know very little about diesel but the truck is so clean it’s hard to not want to buy it. The owner started it from a cold start by pressing a button in the cab for a few seconds and it started right up and ran smoothly

[@correctivemeasures8244]

I did that with my truck, I now have manual control of my glow plugs. It's superior, in my mind. Allows me to use spray start on really cold mornings without worrying, or I can cycle the plugs without turning on everything else. The more you have control, the better. Right?

[@nickpate3106]

Question on gauges ?Pyro goes in the head, boost would go in intake manifold?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Nick Pate boost gauge normally goes into the intake hat sometimes there's a pre tapped pole for it power meter goes in the exhaust manifold passenger side towards the back as the traditional spot

[@carwerks101]

hey mike, im thinking my engine is toast, i replaced the head gaskets and its going through a ton of coolant, but besides that the engine smokes white smoke like crazy during cold days but clears up as i start driving, it only dumps smoke at idle. any ideas?

[@groundtogreen1140]

sounds like the ip. does smoke burn your eyes and smell raw so to speak

[@sanson57]

Hello Mike, just checked your videos they are great. I have s 1985 F250 6.9 L International 4X4 ( I think is Idi, I'm not sure) and with your help if possible I can work out in my truck instead of take it to the mechanic. In the diesel full tank ( about 20 Gal) use like 12 or 14 fl oz of transmission oil to lubricate my pump and never had problems, also use about 6 or 8 fl oz of pure acetone per tank of fuel and give me like 2 or 3 extra miles per gal of diesel. Have you used it before? I'll keep watching your videos. Thanks again!!!

[@groundtogreen1140]

yes 6.9 is IDI, I only use atf every so often not regularly. thanks for the compliment man glad my videos are helpful

[@pblitzco]

Just bought mine today. Picked this bad boy up for crazy cheap 85 F350. Runs great, small injector leak (seals already ordered). These vids have been awesome.

[@nathantjapkes3234]

Paul Blitz multiple injectors or just one. I just bought a 6.9 and the drivers side, closest to the firewall injector is my only leaky one.

[@pblitzco]

Nathan Tjapkes that one was leaking for me too. but the seal kit sealed everything up. fires right up now. i also noticed that it may not simply be the orings. i had one leak on a new o ring, and it turned out I cut the hose just a bit too long, which caused unneeded pressure on the cap. if that makes sense. *edit. side note, be very careful of the high pressure fuel lines. i bent one so slightly, and ended up causing a 30min headache to reconnect

[@ami2evil]

I have an 89 idi king cab, liitle rust solid body and frame. Brushguard, toolbox ,dually rear axle, inside clean without cracked dash... If anyone wants it let me know, I'm in Central Florida. More truck than I need... Fixing up what it needs...

[@williskeesel6049]

I'm really hoping you answer this 🙏 I have replaced my injector pump and my injectors and was pushing my truck pretty hard, and all of a sudden, I had no power and was billowing white/blue smoke. Since then, I did an oil change, which helped the blue go away, but it does the same thing. I start the truck and go for a drive, and all of a sudden, it starts billowing smoke. Is this a head gasket?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Where did the ip and injectors come from

[@kwaichangcaine8234]

Hi is there any quick way to check for cylinder wall cavitation? Thanks for the video

[@groundtogreen1140]

unfortunately cavitation signs could be similar to a blown hg

[@howtocreatesculptures6713]

Get a cheap borescope cable camera off amazon they work awesome. like $35 you can get one and take still pictures and also videos while seeing it on your laptop.

[@DuardoEh]

Don't know anything about American diesels but... Is that an original radiator cap on your truck? Bill Hewitt at PowerstrokeDieselHelp channel buys after-market caps by the case and changes the cap on EVERY Ford that comes into his shop. I think he said it can be the cause of blown head gaskets and cooked pistons, because the motor can't get hot enough to trigger the fan - Your coolant just boils off at low pressure. Look up Brians channel PowerStrokeDieselHelp.

[@groundtogreen1140]

I have seen the video you're talking about and this truck is a pre Powerstroke engine. the radiator cap issue was not a problem until later when they went away from the push down and turn cap to a Twist on cap. thank you for the suggestion though

[@theq4602]

Mostly that's a 6.0 problem. the caps on these trucks are metal with big ol spring they ain't going anywhere

[@short-nstubby1158]

you mentioned putting in two stroke oil...you put this in gas tank every fill up? Don't mean to sound dumb but this is my first diesel. I got 91 7.3 idi in an old ambulance

[@groundtogreen1140]

Short-N Stubby I actually don't use 2 stroke anymore because a friend shared a very informative article with me that it doesn't help much so now I just use diesel kleen

[@kgo717]

What k and n filter covers do u have and do they effect the engine temp under the hood over the stock? What coolant filter do u have?

[@groundtogreen1140]

on this truck I have the factory filter still. my other truck has a microgaurd paper filter. my coolant filter is a Baldwin

[@kgo717]

+Mike Grn correct but the airbox set up looks like an old carb setup and do u have a setup video

[@groundtogreen1140]

your asking about my 85 truck correct?

[@jobehickernell9789]

Dose that one piece water fuel separator work on a 6.9 or only a 7.3?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Jobe Hickernell only a 7.3 6.9s had a firewall mounted water separator

[@jobehickernell9789]

Mike Grn thank you.

[@2Jonb]

Do you know how to adjust the automatic transmission shift that is up top on the engine. if you understand how it done please explain? I have a 92 f350 with the 7.3 idi non turbo engine.

[@groundtogreen1140]

2Jonb www.ford-trucks.com/forums/442611-tps-adjustment.html

[@2Jonb]

Mike Grn Thank you for the information it really helped me out sir.

[@Halfdead211]

Gonna install an ats turbo on a 92 7.3 idi..Will I need to adjust fuel screw or just run how it was set?

[@chuk2795]

Saw u didnt get a response. I heard your supposed to turn your pump up. Like he said you want an exhaust temp gauge. But I wouldn't do more than 3 flats. I noticed a difference on 2 flats

[@josephmckendrick6726]

How many miles is to many for one of these 7.3 idi trucks. I am looking at a 93 4x4 f250 with the 7.3 idi and it has 309000 miles on it. Just wondering if that is to many miles for one of these engines. The guy says he has replaced a lot of parts over that last few years and he says that everything works as it should

[@groundtogreen1140]

Joseph McKendrick rebuild service intervals iirc are every 300k but if it's been maintained well I wouldn't shy away from it if the price is right

[@user-km3sg1hy9s]

Anyone running psd filter on a idi??

[@each1teachonetruth]

I'm thinking of buying a 89 f250 idi with a 7.3. The truck runs but needs obvious work. Current owner is using ether to start it and said it needs a new glow plug control unit. How much do you think it will cost to tune the motor up to get it safe for daily driver? How expensive are these to get worked on?

[@groundtogreen1140]

actually fairly cheap to get up and running just make sure if you start buying parts use Motorcraft almost everything a lot of the Chinese junk just don't last Motorcraft only especially for glow plugs. I think I spent close to a thousand getting a truck ready to Daly drive after been sitting 5 years or more; I did injectors glow plugs drivetrain engine seals and more. I want to say with injectors glow plugs and other stuff I was under five hundred bucks into the engine itself doing the labor myself.

[@groundtogreen1140]

biggest thing I do first thing I get one of these id go through the entire fuel system replace all the O-rings on injectors. upgrade the feed lines to rubber diesel safe and look for any other problem areas. if you'd like to talk more you can always shoot me an email to @ [e-mail]

[@bigdaddysshop8180]

Bought ZD9 MOTORCRAFT GLOW PLUGS off Amazon for around $96 and the glow plug module for around $90 at O'Reilly's

[@fordguyaj5581]

Mike do you have any tips to fix a stuck fuel float on my front tank, 92 7.3 idi NA, I smacked the tank with a mallet and got it go move up a little, but running and hitting brakes it wont move up and down like the rear. It used to work fine when I got it then 1 day I noticed I was driving a long time and not using any fuel

[@groundtogreen1140]

sometimes the floats fill with fuel over time

[@theamericanforester]

Need to drop the pan and put coil or penetrating oil on your float bearing and get the crud out of it because it's stuck from all the trash over the years. Think of it like a 90 year old lady's joints sometimes you just need to force it and crack it and pop it to get it to be right.

[@dylanlee5713]

How can I bleed air out of my 7.3 idi if I don’t have a shrader valve

[@groundtogreen1140]

Crack a feed line but probably

[@supersportimpalass]

What range of EGT temps should a person look for high and low side?

[@benjamins9121]

Above 1100 is getting dangerous

[@MJ-fk6yg]

i have a 6.9L with hypermax turbo. i'm looking to install a fuel pressure gauge by the IP. does the hypermax turbo alter the stock 4.5-5 fuel psi? what number should i be looking for?

[@groundtogreen1140]

installing turbo wont alter fuel psi

[@groundtogreen1140]

inlet pressure before ip should be 3-6 yes

[@tazdominique6746]

So Mike put on a Banks Sidewinder on my 1994 F-350 IDI what is maximum boost I can run without doing any damage?

[@benjamins9121]

12psi is generally considered the most while being relatively safe. If you want more than that then forged rods and pistons are a good idea, and studs

[@whiskeyleaks4421]

What's the best way to date a 6.9? Someone said glow plug connector

[@groundtogreen1140]

Whiskey Leaks like to tell if its a 6.9? headbolts will be 7/16

[@backyardbraaapn1017]

Ask it out nicely, not sure why you would want to date an engine though! Lmao

[@Brian-bi7qe]

do you know of anybody making aftermarket glow plug harnesses for the 7.3 idi?

[@groundtogreen1140]

not right off hand I have heard of people slightly modifying the 6.0 ones thou

[@bigdaddysshop8180]

Buy only ZD9 Motorcraft....for mine on Amazon

[@timothyantonion7722]

What all do you recommend when doing a head gasket?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Pull engine to do it and if in budget studs not a bad idea at same time

[@timothyantonion7722]

Mike Grn I’m trying to find the studs but can’t seem to locate. Ideas?

[@TheUnsureFox]

@@timothyantonion7722 This may be a bit late, considering 4 months have passed since you asked, but ARP makes studs for this engine.

[@lololine]

I am trying to buy a clutch kit for 86 f250 4×4 6.9L does anyone know if it takes 11" or 12" clutch?

[@wyattfollestad8872]

Part store or search online

[@ThyWillRotRonn]

I got a 91 uhaul, it only revs to 2800rpms, do i need a new injection pump spring or can this be modified so it'll go over 60mph?

[@groundtogreen1140]

If I remember correctly the governor spring adjustment was set lower on those intentionally. Be careful because you can cause a runaway if reinstalled incorrectly but you can take top of pump off and adjust that

[@groundtogreen1140]

or you could just swap in an ip from an f series

[@joshballard7761]

Where's the oil pressure sender for a 91 7.3 f350??

[@CollinWeis]

josh ballard Watch Mike's video about his set of aftermarket gauges. He shows where it's located

[@RCEOFYUMATLR]

so now the gauges on dash doesn't work because you installled the other?

[@benjamins9121]

The senders are going to the new guages so yes the old ones that are no longer connected to the engine won't work.

[@rcpfilmstudios9510]

I have one its got a 143000 original on it but its still a stubborn/ temperamental engine. Cant fine out come i have a little bubbling going on in the water reservoir tank after a short run temperature gauge does not go past a a quarter of an inch I get heat out of the heater. But Not as hot as it use to. What is the problem? I dont want it over heating.

[@groundtogreen1140]

Might be a thermostat issue that's where I'd start. Bubbling thou could potentially be a hg start to fail. I'd get one of those exhaust gas test kits to rule the latter out

[@rcpfilmstudios9510]

@@groundtogreen1140 sorry what is hg?

[@groundtogreen1140]

@@rcpfilmstudios9510 head gasket

[@rcpfilmstudios9510]

@@groundtogreen1140 dang hope not a hg.

[@limitlesschoices]

Will the 6.9L run on vegetable oil or black diesel?

[@groundtogreen1140]

it can but both can kill electric pumps and motor oil aka black diesel if that's what ya mean is very hard on the injection pump.

[@cfh4201969]

I know it's old video but is there a gear reduction starter for the IDI's ?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Idk about a good gear reduction one I just upgrade all my trucks to the high torque models. They spin the engine over way faster

[@cfh4201969]

@@groundtogreen1140 I guess that s probably the same. They're supposed to draw much less amps. Would you have a pt#? E4OD and mine are vans.

[@fernhoppertimberworks8037]

Idi,s we're never intended to put a turbo on them . Your I jection timming can also be a cause of over heating and if you are cooking glow plugs.and they break off.,your timing is advanced to much and your combustion temp is two high. You should never turn up your pump for more fuel because your engine can only burn so much fuel and you are going to produce excess carbon and stop up your mufflers .

[@7.3ididiesel36]

Have you ever used Lucas upper cylinder lubricant? I use it every fill up along with Diesel Kleen.

[@groundtogreen1140]

no.I haven't I'll have to look it up

[@listenlearnlovelinkup6253]

What was he saying about idling for a good couple minutes before he shuts them off? Are we supposed to let it idle for 2 min before shutting off, or are we supposed to not let it idle longer than 2 minutes?

[@groundtogreen1140]

if your referencing to what I said about the turbo I usually let it idle a little so I'm not shutting it off right away still "hot" I let fresh oil cool the turbo a little not under a load. Might be silly but it's something I do.

[@listenlearnlovelinkup6253]

Thanks for replying. I understand now, you let your car idle gently before shutting it off. A sortof cooldown after running hard. Would you do that on a non-Turbo diesel? (mines non-turbo 7.3 IDI)

[@timothyharrington2680]

Do you have to remove the power steering pump to install the fan power steering belt? The belt I took off was 61 in and the new one is 59.77.

[@groundtogreen1140]

Not sure on length difference but ya do have to loosen the pivoting bracket to install

[@groundtogreen1140]

On v belts obviously

[@timothyharrington2680]

@@groundtogreen1140 so far I have removed the pivot bolt closest to the driver's side. I do not think this is correct. Do you need to remove any bolts so that the power steering bracket pivots?

[@timothyharrington2680]

@@groundtogreen1140 it appears putting these belts on is difficult. It is possible I have wrong belt but add said fan belt and power steering. I got a 1990 international 4600

[@groundtogreen1140]

@@timothyharrington2680 oh yours might be different then vs a standard f seriss

[@fernhoppertimberworks8037]

Never use either. Fix your glow plugs.you can use 3m silicone spray to start your engine but wait for glow plugs to go off before you crank it . Also look for lubricants that use propane as a propelant .you need something that atomizes easily. .

[@groundtogreen1140]

I've had the debate several times over with folks there's alternatives yes you can use but none of them as commonly available as starting fluid which can be used safely but you're correct in the sense it should not be overused or to replace the factory glow plug system

[@jakepaintin7215]

So fuel in coolant 88 7.3l what would cause that?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Gosh man that's a first for me. Fuel in oil there is a couple areas to trouble shoot but for coolant there is virtually nowhere. I mean heads have coolant passages but I've never seen one cracked around an injector. The OEM fuel pump goes right into the block no coolant passage there. Yea I'm sorry but even for me I got nothing else.

[@ami2evil]

That's not possible unless someone dumped it in the coolant...

[@jameswhitman7936]

You put two stroke oil in your fuel?

[@groundtogreen1140]

yes I do it helps add some lubricity to the fuel system that Modern Diesel is lacking which helps extend my injection pump life

[@jameswhitman7936]

Mike Grn what's the 2 stroke oil to fuel ratio?

[@groundtogreen1140]

normally every other fillup and like a half qt. for 19 gallons

[@jj9686]

Mike Grn why?

[@groundtogreen1140]

to keep everything lubricated that's just the ratio I started doing

[@Friedrich-Wilhelm-1980]

my truck will start at 30 no problem struggle at 20 and anything under 15 you have to plug it in

[@groundtogreen1140]

Might be time for a winter tune up but sometimes when it gets that cold they can be temperamental

[@Friedrich-Wilhelm-1980]

@@groundtogreen1140 yea but my 84 that i used to have never gave me any problems -30 is when that one would struggle to bad about wiring caching fire now it just sits in the drive the wires to the high idle temp sensor just started smoking on the highway then poof took 1/2 the wiring harness with it this 86 i got now seems better in every way but not in cold starting

[@groundtogreen1140]

@@Friedrich-Wilhelm-1980 I had that similar issue going from my 85 to a 94 the 85 would start and pretty much anytime the 94 was a lot more temperamental I almost had to plug it in below 20

[@kyletishkof8886]

Can these motors hold up with 500+HP?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Kyle Tishkof that kinda power is still being explored Justin anderson owner of R+D IDI performance is pretty much only one I know in that territory. He's having trouble getting the Southbend clutch to hold

[@kyletishkof8886]

I HAVE A DREAM... I want a 1978 F250 highboy on 37s and I'm considering buy a decent condition 7.3 idi (that I'm learning about) I wanna take this motor to my local Internatonal mechanic and have them update what they can.. then mod it, and have a left lane coal train show truck... But if the idi cant make the 500+ HP the. Do you recommend newer 7.3 powerstoke. Or do I have to go with a cummins?

[@groundtogreen1140]

Kyle Tishkof 500 is achievable but it's definitely not as far along as other platforms very few sought to spend the money to advance it. I personally would probably put a stroker as a second choice but have no desire to really move to anything else. The IDI is cheap and is capable of usable power despite being a dinosaur. I am not the guy to ask about pros and cons of the other swaps thou zero experience there save a couple guys I've sold parts to.

[@groundtogreen1140]

Kyle Tishkof my friend idi swapped a highboy btw it was pretty neat

[@hoost3056]

Hypermax built a 1200 hp IDI for tractor pulling a long time ago....so can it be done, yes, but it won't be cheap. They have a full mechanical injection conversion for the Powerstroke.....the price on that will slap you ( over $11k )

[@jamesberry1821]

1989 ford 7.3 engne temp is running like always 195 to 200 is this normal and it take quit a long time to warm up n the morning

[@groundtogreen1140]

yep that's what mine runs at completely normal

[@jamesberry1821]

does the timing have anything to do with the way or speed of the engine turing over ? i do blow white smoke but not to much usually on startup

[@groundtogreen1140]

some have said timing a little advanced helps with start up but I've adjusted my timing both advanced and the retarded it and seen no noticeable difference

[@jamesberry1821]

Right on when i get this issue figured out ill post it here, im going to clean the cdc valve next and put another starter and see if the helps with the smoke and starting

[@sonictech1000]

James berry The standard thermostat is 195 degrees so I'd say that's about right.

[@darrylknox2026]

Hey I just got a 1993 7.3 idol and it has been siting for years the owner said when he packed it it needed a vacuum pump what els should I do to try to crank it for the first time in years

[@immikeurnot]

Vacuum pump doesn't affect the way the engine runs, it's mostly there for the brake booster. First is drain the tanks and put fresh diesel in. If it's been sitting for years, don't be surprised if you end up having to pull the tanks and have them cleaned or even replace them. The 94 F250 IDI I just bought, that's how it had to go. Check the fuel lines, especially the hoses. Change the engine oil. Once you do all that, use the starter relay on the fender to crank the truck while you hold the schraeder valve on the fuel filter housing open and bleed the lines. Once you get fresh diesel at the valve, you can try starting it. Make sure you do a max 10 second crank at a time, with a 10-20 second cooldown in between to keep from burning the starter up. They're not meant to run constantly for minutes at a time! If you've got diesel to the injection pump and the truck still doesn't want to start, crack the hard lines at the injectors loose. Doesn't honestly have to be all of them, but at least 3 is good. You don't have to take them OFF, just LOOSE. Crank again until you start to see diesel flowing from the loose fittings, tighten them, and it should fire on at least those cylinders, which is generally (in my experience with this and a few other diesels) enough to push the air out of the other injectors (the engine spins fast enough to make it happen) and make the engine run on all cylinders. Don't use starting aids except as an absolute last resort. I know a lot of guys go to them quick, and USUALLY it's not an issue. Problem is, it's too easy to overdose on them and have your engine run away, and ether can outright damage your engine even if you don't add enough to have that happen. Keep in mind that a diesel, once it starts, will keep running as long as there's fuel going into the cylinders, and the more fuel, the faster it runs - there isn't a throttle plate like on gas engines. If you do decide to give it some help, use WD-40, and only sparingly. You may also want to keep a good battery charger or another truck with a lot of battery CCAs and fat jumper cables nearby. One other thing to bear in mind about mechanically injected diesels like the IDI is that, due to the way the engine-driven injection pump works, they don't like to start below a minimum cranking RPM. The pump has to push enough pressurized diesel into a pressurized combustion chamber in order for the engine to start. If it's barely turning over, it's not like a gas engine, where the spark meets the fuel/air mix and it fires anyway. Got to have injection time and volume, and enough cylinder pressure (all take sufficient RPM) to make magic happen with these engines.

[@ellacarr6828]

Aaa

[@tjinspace7001]

Is just extended(no additive) life coolant good and which 50/50 brand?

[@groundtogreen1140]

you want one with SCA additives either fleet charge or final charge are the 2 most common normally can find it at truck stops

[@tjinspace7001]

@@groundtogreen1140 is it true they are bad for seals on older gen IDI?

[@groundtogreen1140]

@@tjinspace7001 is what bad sca coolant?

[@tjinspace7001]

@@groundtogreen1140 I found some old forum posts that said extended life coolants are bad for older gen IDI seals and to only use low silicate green and an additive on them. I have the first gen 7.3 IDI..

[@groundtogreen1140]

@@tjinspace7001 well I have not hear of that 90% of the guys I know use fleet charge or final charge