Won't start unless it gets a sip of ether. Will start after it warms up on it's own after that. New F.I. pump, new batteries. Whadda we need to do? The bad river boys need to know.

 

Pre-Power Stroke Diesel (7.3L IDI & 6.9L) - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums Here is a link to the page for your engine, probably best to ask the guys there. However my guess would be bad glowplug/s. How long does the Wait to Start light stay on when cold?

 

Thanks Lazy K, we are novices on diesel repairs, but pretty good on gasoline stuff. We suspected what you said was true. It is so d_ _ _ hot here in Texas that the "light" does not come on. Maybe we have a bad relay there as well. Will keep you posted. Thanks again.

 

It sounds like you are off to a good start!!!



Welcome to FTE

 

here is the full test procedure for the 1987-1994 idi GP system:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...low-plugs.html

as for glow plug replacement.remember to buy motorcraft only.don't let anyone tell ya different.
(it really is important.unless you want swollen up gp's latter on,and possibly destroyed pistons.)

 

OK, replaced glow plugs w/Ford OE parts, now it starts immediately but dies and won't restart w/o ether, a 90 f250 7.3 owner told me there is a relay not keeping the glow plugs hot. The bad river boys want to know.

 

now it sounds like your GP system is working perfectly if she starts right up and runs.
if she soon stalls out after starting easy,then this is more than likely because it just burned off the fuel left in the ip,but the rest of the fuel has drained back to the tank due to air intrusion.this is the most common issue we face as idi owners.
some of us have replaced all the old metal fuel lines,and installed electric fuel pumps rather than the mechanical lift pump.this way if fuel ever does drain back the e-pump just primes the system without the need to crank the engine over,and wearing out the batteries and starter.
one of the most common places to have a broken fuel seal,is the soft lines over the injectors,with the plastic caps.
the whole kit is replaceable and is called a "injector install kit".
good grade kits made by Delphi are sold at amazon.you can also buy some #111 viton o-rings while there,and use those in place of the buna-n sold in the kit.you need 16 rings.
other common places are found around the fuel filter head or old metal lines rusting out around the frame clips.