Consensus on 6.9 Head gaskets in 7.3?

[jhenegh]

I've read through old posts on this topic but never really saw any conclusions?

I got my 7.3's heads off right now and it's going back together with studs. Now is my opportunity to (possibly?) get some better head cooling with the 6.9 gaskets squished in my 7.3 and remove the coolant plugs?

Any input is appreciated

 

[icanfixall]

I'm the member that started this. You do not need to remove the plug in the 7.3 heads or block but.. you do need to open them up. I know of a few members that have thousands of miles on this modification with no issues. As I have posted before. both the 6.9 and 7.3 head gaskets measure the same no matter what someone else may post. I have them side by side and its the same. Even the head bolt holes are the same. Only diff is the open passages on the 6.9 so thats why the 6.9 runs cooler than the 7.3. Believe me had I know when I installed head gaskets on my 2 rebuilds I sure would have done this. Hers a few pics.

 

[jhenegh]

Ok I just ordered some 6.9 head gaskets. Looks liek I just need to drill a 3/16" or 1/4" hole in each plug and put it together normally then? Do I need to fool with that rubber insert piece or will my drilled holes serve the purpose to restrict coolant flow through those areas?

 

[IDIoit]

Gary, are you flipping us off??

dont mind me, just subscribing

 

[icanfixall]

Maybe.... As for the rubber head gasket insert please use it. Look at any 6.9 block. See the large triangular coolant passage. Our 7.3 has more metal around this area so the insert will work well there. Be sure about the size hole to drill in the 7.3 plugs. Try to match up the hole in the 6.9 head gasket.

 

[jhenegh]

Ok I think I can handle that. Thanks Gary!

 

[BioFarmer93]

If I may make a suggestion (since I just did this the other day) don't drill- punch. Drilling is going to leave filings in your heads and block, if you sharpen a 3/16" or 1/4" dia. steel rod or center punch and use that, it makes a nice hole and leaves no metal bits to contaminate your coolant. jm2¢

 

[FarmerFrank]

I'm about ready to pull my heads and try this. I'm in the same boat as Gary, I found this out after I assembled and installed my 7.3. Wish I would have known then.