Hey folks,
I'm going to look at an 89 4x4 7.3 5-speed this weekend. The price is good and I think I want to buy it if it checks out. Is there anything that is common with these engines that I need to look out for? I don't want to get into something I have to spend big $$$ on to get it back into shape. I expect to do some work to it but I would like to avoid major overhaul, bad block, or something like that.

I'm told over the phone that the engine and tranny are in good shape but it won't win any beauty contests. I'm not a big fan of cosmetics anyway. Truck has about 180,000 miles on it.

Any input is welcome....Thanks

 

One of the biggest things in my opinion you can do is make sure that you are the one that starts the truck when you go to look at it. Some guys will start them up a few hours before a potential buyer comes to look at them so the vehicle will appear to be cold. If the truck has set over night without being started you will get a better idea if there is any air intrusion or fuel bleed off issues. You will also be able to note the cold starting of the vehicle. The cold start issues seem to be the most common problems with these IDI's. (Glow plugs and controlers, batteries, starter, etc) When the vehicle is cold you will also be able to check the fluids for oil/water contamination a little easier which could be cause by head gasket trouble or oil cooler issues. You will also want to get a feel what kind of maintenance has been taken with the truck. Ask the seller what kind of antifreeze he runs in the engine. If you get a general answer like "Just the stuff the sell at the gas station." you may want to be concerned about SCA's and cavication. Many diesel owners don't pay attention to the possible SCA issues on these rigs. However, if you ask the same question and you get the answer "I run Napa Cool for the SCA's." you know the seller has an idea about proper cooling. I know this sounds harsh but I don't trust sellers at all. I believe that most of them will tell you anything just to sell the vehicle. If the truck has a turbo installed you will also want to check for oil around the turbo housing. These trucks also have issues with power steering pumps and boxes leaking badly.

These are just a few things that you will want to check first. I know that I haven't even scratched the surface yet but others will chime in and help you as well.

Good luck.

Troy

 

Good advice, I'll check those things. The seller did say it wouldn't start without being plugged in. I can deal with glow plugs and controller...(the price is right). I am concerned about cavitation though. Even a head gasket doesn't worry me too much. I don't suppose there is any way to know of block condition huh? Labor costs don't scare me I can do my own work, It's expensive parts that scare me.

Dumb question, what is SCAs?

 

Oh yea it's naturally aspirated.