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Won't start with out ether

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Old Sep 27, 2016 | 08:36 AM
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daniel1997psd
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Won't start with out ether

I just got a 6.9 idi it's an 1984 f250 it has 2 problems it won't start with out ether which I know is most Likely the glow plugs I'm just not sure what kind I should buy I know if you get cheap gps they don't work. And the other problem is it won't shut off by the key so I just stall it out every time (yes I know not the best way to stop it lol) also is there anything I should know about these 6.9s or are they pretty much like 7.3 psd
 
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Old Sep 27, 2016 | 09:36 AM
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You need Motorcraft ZD9 glowplugs. Also I would go ahead and replace the GP relay. I believe its mounted on the inner fender on a 6.9. I think a lot of the guys on here upgrade to the 7.3l controller.
As far as your shut down issue, do a search on this forum. There is a thread called "Wont shut off!!!" It may help with your ignition problem. May be worn or need some adjustment.

And NO these are not like the powerstrokes. Indirect mechanical injection, no IDM, no HPOP, no UVCH, and all the issues can be fixed with a modest budget and basic tools .

Welcome!
 
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Old Sep 27, 2016 | 04:26 PM
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84 uses ZD-1 glow plugs. your glow plug controller is in the middle of the back of the block. the older controllers like to fail in the on position and burn out the glow plugs.
that is why most convert to ZD-9 plugs with the 87 and newer solid state controller. or go to a manual glow plug button.

for the no shut off, i will say you have a bad ignition actuator. 99% of the time they break in the no start position, but i have had 4 come in over the years with no shut off. changed the actuator and all was good.
 
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Old Sep 27, 2016 | 05:39 PM
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Tom,
You can't use ZD9's on an 84? I thought the only difference was the connector. And on this one is the controller and the relay separate? Or together like the later models?
 
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Old Sep 27, 2016 | 05:56 PM
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yes you can. but you would have to change the electrical connectors on the harness.

i am not sure how exactly the 6.9 controller works, except that it i is not as favorable as the 7.3 controller.
 
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Old Sep 27, 2016 | 06:08 PM
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That's what I thought. If the connectors are old I might replace them anyway, and while im at put bullet connectors on and run the ZD-9's. But, some guys like the flat connectors.
 
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Old Sep 29, 2016 | 02:31 PM
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Still in better shape than my 6.9.. after the last journey from phoenix, az to spokane, wa the engine won't even start /with/ ether! Good old autolite glow plugs are to blame I think.. started pulling them out.. after the 3rd I gave up.. all broken tips..
 
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Old Sep 29, 2016 | 05:14 PM
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Originally Posted by mebe2k
Still in better shape than my 6.9.. after the last journey from phoenix, az to spokane, wa the engine won't even start /with/ ether! Good old autolite glow plugs are to blame I think.. started pulling them out.. after the 3rd I gave up.. all broken tips..
Yikes! Broke three? the connector end? Or the end inside the head?
 
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Old Sep 29, 2016 | 05:45 PM
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mebe2k
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Originally Posted by Jarkill
Yikes! Broke three? the connector end? Or the end inside the head?
the end inside the head.. I will have to get some pictures of them to show how bad they are..
 
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Old Sep 29, 2016 | 09:49 PM
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Originally Posted by mebe2k
Still in better shape than my 6.9.. after the last journey from phoenix, az to spokane, wa the engine won't even start /with/ ether! Good old autolite glow plugs are to blame I think.. started pulling them out.. after the 3rd I gave up.. all broken tips..
If it won't start with Ether, chances are you've got fueling issues. Make sure you are getting fuel to the injectors when cranking.
 
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Old Sep 30, 2016 | 05:26 AM
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mebe2k
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From: Ford, WA
Already ruled out the fuel system..the compression is horribly low..it burns a ton of oil, and it won't even try to start with the ether.. only way I can get it started is to have someone pull it and I pop the clutch..and even that takes a few feet of the engine spinning fast in first gear..and even when it's good and warmed up its a b***h to get running.. it has been getting progressively worse.. I have a fresh 6.9 in my shop waiting to get dropped in.. hopefully after this winter I will finally get it swapped..
 
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