opinions needed
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 21,285
Likes: 16
From: Nutter Fort, WV
Ford started installing the 6.9 in 1983.
They used the 6.9 thru 1987
The best years for the 6.9 was late 85, 86 and 87.
1988 thru mid 1994 they used the 7.3.
The engine was also available with a turbo in 1993 and 1994.
Mid 1994 the engine was swapped to the Power Stroke, electronic control direst injection motor.
They used the 6.9 thru 1987
The best years for the 6.9 was late 85, 86 and 87.
1988 thru mid 1994 they used the 7.3.
The engine was also available with a turbo in 1993 and 1994.
Mid 1994 the engine was swapped to the Power Stroke, electronic control direst injection motor.
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 21,285
Likes: 16
From: Nutter Fort, WV
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Postmaster
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 3,594
Likes: 2
From: Southern Oregon USA
Originally Posted by Dave Sponaugle
I still favor the 86 model 6.9....but I am somewhat infulenced for some reason.
Jason
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Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 6,900
Likes: 3
From: Campbell River, B.C.
Originally Posted by mejonz
maybe it,s that red and silver engine 
twwtruck, I also prefer the 1986 year, but it depends on what you want the truck for. Ford didn't offer an overdrive transmission in 1986, and these old diesels can be unsuitable for freeway use. There are some diesel trucks in 1987 that were offered with a 5 speed overdrive transmission, and you also get the better glow plug system as well. 2wd trucks can accept 3.08 gears, and some rare ones may have even been offered with them from factory.
I prefer the look of the older style, but thats just me.
So as Franklin said, what are your priorities? (towing, DD highway driver, farm truck?)
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 310
Likes: 0
From: maricopa az
I like the older trucks also but like dave85 said fuel milage will suffer if you try to keep up with traffic I just let traffic go around me here in pheonix on the 101. I think some people think thats the speed limit
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 21,285
Likes: 16
From: Nutter Fort, WV
With fuel prices what they are, I find more and more people driving 55 or 60 here even though the speed limit is 70 MPH on the interstate.
If you find a nice older truck, you can add overdrive a couple different ways.
If you find a nice older truck, you can add overdrive a couple different ways.