Hi Scott, If you look at the pre power stroke forum, there are several members that have an 87 with the ZF5, 6.9 idi and either 4:10 or 3:54/55 gear ratios. Glow plugs are electronic, old style water separator, new or 7.3 style oil filler neck.

I remember the sales person making the statement that the trans was a "new prototype" from Germany which I thought was odd.

Dad wasn't planning on buying a truck but he was up from Ca. and we were on our way to Lake Powell. The 428 in his 75 highboy barreled the cylinders and was spewing oil out the tailpipe. Decided on a new truck and wound up with the 87.