90 Ford E350, 7.3 IDI

[90FordIDI]

Hello everyone!
Ive wanted to convert a bus for quite some time, infact i have owned two full size buses in the past but let them go due to lack of funds. Thats no longer an issue so i bought a 1990 Ford E350 with a 7.3 IDI and a Metrotrans body. It was a killer deal i couldnt pass up and so far it seems like its in really great shape!
Ive done my homework, did the late night youtube bingeing to see what other people have done so im excited to start!!!
Im sure ill have questions and ill be happy for any information and insight you all can give!
I'll up load a few pics.


Also, ive got to come up wirrh a clever name to replace thr churches name on the cap, come up with something anf shoot it my way!

[oricha1984]

those older fords and chevys have an unique look to them
thanks for sharing, keep the pictures coming

[Rusty]

Wow, look at those comfy seats ! Have a screen drop-down behind the driver and project movies while on the road.

Padded sidewalls will help with road noise.

7.3 IDI is such neat engine, so robust. Veggie oil guys sure like them.

[90FordIDI]

Ohh yeah! Thats why i had to get it. Sure its dated but it looks cool!

[90FordIDI]

Assesment has shown a few things that need sorted.
Rear air springs will lift the bus but wont hold.
Fuel filter leaks.
Clearance lighs not working.
* Trans has a Ford Renew tag thats dated last year, so thats a plus.
* Engine is hard to start but i suspect the fuel leak to be the cause, glow plug system works fine. Runs like new!
High Idle system not working, looking into it.

[Greatestrr]

The 7.3 is a great engine. I have the same in my bus. Easy to wrench on, even for a shade tree mechanic. Great lookin rig too. Love the old style

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by 90FordIDI

* Engine is hard to start but i suspect the fuel leak to be the cause, glow plug system works fine. Runs like new!

I've got that engine in my Ambulance RV that I need to sell.

Just make sure you have the Motorcraft Glow Plugs/Beru or they are prone to swell and be difficult to remove.

They loose prime in the return fuel lines from the injectors. They used a metric-sized (10mm?) braided cloth covered hose that doesn't like modern diesel blend. There are also o-rings around each injector for return fuel line that go bad, loose prime.

Easy fix in a weekend, $70ish kit on ebay. I powerwash the engine first, even put a tarp in the cab, removed cowl cover, and blasted from inside. Not much electronics, except glow plug controller i wrapped in tin foil.


attached are the 2 types used (centered or offset), look at yours to determine.

[Bob87]

If you haven't found the site already, www.oilburners.net is a huge help for these IH IDI's. Check them out for all things about your new rig. I have a 7.3l in a 1993 crew cab that's been great to me. Good luck!!

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