Since I've got the turbo and pedestal pulled out due to the O-Ring and EBPV failure, I figured now would be a good time to put in my FRx while I'm waiting on the parts from Riff Raff to do the EBPV delete and replace the O-rings. Got the driver's side done OK but working on the passenger side and OMG, what was International/Ford thinking? I realize it's just supposed to be an irregularly used test port but the access here has surely got to be a joke.

The instructions say to break that plug loose with a pair of vice grips but I can't get enough room in there to close the vise grips and turn them without removing a lot more stuff and well, I don't want to.

So I ordered this instead - - hopefully it'll make the job easier. I figure since it'll be a few days before the other parts get here and I can still access the passenger side test port with the turbo back in, there's no point in killing myself trying to do something that a $15 tool may make infinitely easier.

I miss my old 1969 F100 with the inline 6 when I start turning wrenches on new stuff. I don't mind doing the work or even the busted knuckles, it's that the engineers now try to squeeze everything they can into the smallest possible space, leaving no room to get to things when they do break or wear out. I could literally stand in the engine compartment on that F100 in front of and on either side of the inline 6, it was such a pleasure to work on.

I shouldn't complain too much though, the 7.3 is better than the BMW 335 I use as a daily driver. It requires removal of the intake manifold and throttle body to replace the starter. Really? Who thought that made sense?

 

Another option is "trial and error" with various small 12-point sockets until you find one which fits tightly.

 

I tried a few but none of them felt tight enough and I don't want to end up rounding it off. The instructions say that an 8 point 5/16" will work but I already have a 6 point and 12 point 5/16" in both 1/4" and 3/8" drive so I figured if I'm going to buy a new tool, I'll buy something I don't already "have."

 

In the meantime squirt some PB blaster around the threads, help loosen those critters up. That 8 point socket should do the trick.

 

I dropped that dang front fitting a couple times, not fun. Bend a stiff wire into a loose "J" and put the tip in the hole. Hold the other end firmly, drop the fitting over, and tickle the fitting with a wrench till the threads start. And if you're like me and didn't notice, it does not thread in 90* square to the surface of the head as one might expect. It angles over a little towards engine centerline.

Another option is loosen the serp belt and IIRC 4 bolts that hold the AC compressor support. No need to remove just tilt it out of the way. Never tried it but guys here report it allows space for your hands.

 

I ended up buy a set of Craftsman "splined" sockets, I don't remember which size worked on that plug but they have come in handy several other times on different stuff.

 

Those look cool, I didn't know such a thing existed. I put them on my wish list so I'll remember them when I've got more money to spend.

 

hahaha that was my thoughts too when I stumbled across them, they do come in handy

 

It sure does!

 

The problem for me really was the HPOP oil reservoir, it's in a very inconvenient spot. The socket made all the difference in the world, put it on an extension with a universal adapter and got the plug right out.

Installing the FRx hose on the other hand....it involved some cursing.

 

Whenever I am working on my vehicles in the garage, the wife always turns on some music in the house and waits for me to come in with a smile. If I come in to "cool off" or wash my hands, she just asks if I need anything. When I come in with a smile, she knows the project was successful and we can go about our business.

How do you like the FRx, would you do it again if you were faced with the same decision?

 

I haven't been able to run the truck for more than about 5 minutes since putting it in. Once I got everything put back together it became apparent that I also have a turbo failure so I'm waiting on a new cartridge to repair the turbo. Hopefully that's all that's left to fix and I'll get a chance to drive it next week.

It wasn't the worst job I've ever done but access is definitely tight. I'm hoping it'll quiet and smooth my idle some.

 

Keep us posted on your thoughts. There are a lot of FTE members out there (including myself) that have winter projects lined up that involve an FRx.

 

I'm a FRx believer

Between that, new injector orings, fuel bowl rebuild with new parker sleeves on the lines, Hutch mod, and HPx, my Excursion has quieted to the point it can barely be distinguished from a gas motor at highway speeds.

My by the ear guess would be 30-50%!

Considering air is the main noise maker, I call that a win

 

Yep, same experience I have had. Been running one for years and love it, as well have installed several for others. Simple, priced right, well engineered and best of all does exactly what you mentioned.