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I just got an 84 F250 6.9, my first. The price was right, all I had to do was haul it off. It's still a good solid truck as it's been in the NV desert it's whole life. Everything appears to be original under the hood. Got it from the original owner, it has 280k miles and needs a new head gasket, which had been replaced 100k ago. Should I fool with the head gasket and squeeze some more miles out of it, or is it due for a rebuild anyway. The previous owner did an excellent job on maintenance and never hauled anything heavier than a medium sized camper occasionally. I know it's ultimately a judgment call on my part but just wanted an opinion from you guys. By the way, I really enjoy reading all the posts on here, thanks.
Head gaskets are a normal maintenance requirement on the OEM 6.9....... Head bolts need to be replaced as they were the culprits........ Bolts or studs...... studs are better and almost same price as new bolts..... just a bit more......
The engine is at about half life........if as you say full maintenance has been kept up.
Valve seals are in need of upgrading since they allowed to much oil to bypass, there are many small things that you can improve....... others will add their info for sure.
That would be my take as well. Head gaskets can also be taken out by the cdr not being serviced, and oil getting through it into the intake, which then makes the back two cylinders run hotter than the rest. Expect the main seals to be leaking as well, especially if it has sat for a while. Front isn't a big deal, rear requires the trans to be dropped to get at it.