new member with a "new" 86 6.9

[cincymoto]

I decided to put my truck up for trade, I really like it but I haven't driving a standard in a long time and shifting is killing my knee. It's either that or an auto swap. I would trade for an auto 6.9/7.3 in similar condition. I also realize I don't need a dually. This is a great truck but a bit too heavy duty for my needs. If you have a single axle auto in good condition you'd like to trade let me know.

 

[Knuckledragger]

Thanks for the reply, it's a T19 4 spd though. what are common signs for pump failure-leaking or poor fuel delivery-both? mine has a oily area under the pump and on the driver side of motor coming down the side. it looks like it's coming from the plug with wires on top of the timing gear cover.

Those two wires are connected to the magnetic sending unit for your tachometer. Leaks can come from most anywhere on the engines, all of them tell something. The ones you describe seem mostly to be from age and hardened or cracked gaskets.

The IP will work well for a long time and has a particular way of telling you it is time to change. Easy start up when cold, impossible when hot. If you have this, put a rag soaked in water (not ice) on top of the IP and it should start up pretty quick. This is called heat soak and it means the interior is worn out. Exterior leaks are not uncommon, but not a sign of problems other than leaks.

To make the IP last a good long time, it has been shown that biodiesel has wonderful lubrication qualities. Some folks add a quart or more to each tank to combat wear. I use two cycle oil from Walmart because I do not know of a local biodiesel supplier.

Welcome to the forums!

 

[Knuckledragger]

I have all of the parts for a swap, you can have them if you can get them to Cincy. I got them for free from a guy who swapped into a 5 speed. I have been keeping them for spare parts but if you can find someone schlepping cross country who will deliver, they are yours.

 

[cincymoto]

wow, that's super cool! what part of the world?

 

[cincymoto]

Ahhh, I'm keeping the old bird. everyday I drive it I like it more. Thanks to forums like these (this one seems by far the best) I have enjoyed an honest 15+ hours a week reading about people's rigs and mods and realizing what great trucks these are. I have zero interest in building a screaming smoking high HP rig. I enjoy squeezing out mpgs, and rock solid reliability, with easy and inexpensive repair. Plus, the more I read the more this dually suits me. I need to tow about 5-7K, I always seen friends pulling that with 150's and the like but now I realize they are just risking a serious accident. It's unlikely I could find anything better than this truck as it's rust free and has 89K. It looks and drives great, needs a few minor repairs but nothing as far as the driveline, body or interior. I am seriously thinking (as most) I need an overdrive. But without sacrificing towing reliability. Until I get that all figured out, I'll just keep it under 60 and wear a knee brace. I'm also interested in wvo. Been reading about that for 10 years. it sounds great but you have to do your homework to create a good system before you start it off. mistakes can be far more costly than the fuel saved. I read that an auto box cannot handle the stress of towing on a regular basis. My old 6.2 silverado's 700r4 took a crap after I babied it. granted those trannys are junk to begin with but a serious rebuild was around 2k. Sold it and I'm glad. c6's are stouter but not like a manual. no OD either. I hear the ford OD trans is not up to the task either. manual gears are the best. I wish I could find a 2 speed dif with a 4.10 and 3.08. that would be perfect. maybe I could source one and have the ratios swapped to spec. seems like an easier swap than gearvendors or something like it, lighter weight and less hassle in the long run.

 

[92F350CC]

The autos can do it if properly maintained, especially if you add a good torque converter and an aftermarket cooler.