What was your opinion on the 7.3L IDI turbo diesel that was used on the F250 (HD) and F350 models from 1993 through early 1994?

Approximate production: August 1, 1992 through March 31, 1994.

It was underrated of course, at 190 hp as opposed to the 7.3L non-turbocharged engine's 185 hp (in 1993). Torque was only 20+ above the non-turbo's 368 lb-ft.

I'd like to think that because of Navistar's concentration on their direct-injected T444E (Power Stroke in Ford circles), the 7.3L IDI turbo diesel was not given as high a boost in HP and torque than what many thought back in the day.

Both the IDI diesels were discontinued May 1, 1994. Thus, were there any 1994 F-Series (150, 250, 350) dealer brochures in which the IDI and Power Stroke 7.3 co-existed as options?

~Ben

 

id give my opinion,but it would be a little biased im afraid.

the power rating theory of yours is very popular,however according to many dyno runs with these trucks over the years,show them to be accurate,and with the n/a ratings actually inflated.
for anyone to push as high as just 200 hp at the back wheels,the owners had to stress the turbo's out of their efficiency ranges to upwards of 15-20 lbs of boost.they're only made for 9-10 lbs.
few idi owners actually invest in larger turbo's,head studs and other supporting mods which require complete overhaul to go beyond 200hp or more reliably.
what they lack in performance they more than make up for in simplicity and cost of maintenance/repair imo.-but remember,im biased.