I have 179K on my 7.3. Thought I might make a pre-emptive strike and replace the UVCH and gasket while R&R GP and Orings. They are ok today, but from what I've read they can burn out around 200K. I'm leaning towards doing it, but I also don't want to waste time and money if these will last another 25-50K miles.

 

I'd start by unplugging the pigtails that plug into the VC gasket plugs. Inspect them for burnt pins and excessive oil pass-through. If any are burnt or there is an excessive amount of oil coming through (like leaving a residue by the plugs or dripping), then replace them. I'll defer to other member's advice on whether to replace them if they show no signs of malfunction. But one thing most people on here will tell you - if you can afford it, get Ford parts for these. The parts store UVCH and VC gaskets (I believe the most common ones are Dorman) have a reputation for 1) being bad right from the start and 2) going bad prematurely. Some folks have run them for many thousand miles, but it seems there are more bad stories than good. You can get all ford gaskets and plugs from RifRaff Diesel for about as cheap as anywhere.

Oh, and Semper Fi. You still in?

 

If they aren't bad, you don't have to. Like Tyler said, go with ford ones though if you can. They are about twice as much, but you get what you pay for. I ran the dormans for 12-15k is all, and had a couple burnt gp pins already.

You can visually inspect them, and ohm through the pins too. The injectors should be about 3.2, and the new gp's about 1ohm (hopefully you got motorcrafts). If they check out that way and visually look good, no need to change unless it makes you feel better imo.

 

Allright, I'm unplugging the pigtails tonight and look for any signs of deterioration. I've purchased OEM plugs and O-rings already, and will do the same if replace the UVCH and VC gasket. II don't mind paying for OEM, just not from a dealer. K-MansParts.com has good prices for OEM stuff.

 

I'm a tight *******..7k on my bargain basment rick shaw doormans.... so far..all good.if i was rich...sure oe is better.

 

Well,

I was driving by Pensacola, FL so I stopped in at Pensacola Diesel
and bought a set a couple weeks ago - cost me just over $100
for the Dorman brand.

I installed them & they seem to work o.k. for now.

Anyone have a lead on the best place to buy OEM valve
cover harness gaskets (shipping included) ?

 

I believe Riffraff Diesel has about the best deal I've heard of. Here's the link.

Riffraff Diesel Performance Parts: Diesel OEM Parts | Powerstroke Factory Parts | Diesel Factory Parts | - OEM/Factory Parts

Not sure what the shipping charge is.

 

7.3 Power Stroke diesel glow plug related parts

 

Tyler,

Great link !

I added it to my Favorites ....

I needed a Ford EBP Exhaust Back Pressure Tube for my 95' PSD
and they have a good price on it ....