So I'm thinking of moving from Arlington, VA, to Denver, CO, what do you all think I should do to prepare the ambulance for the journey? I bought this thing a few months ago and have been spending my time getting it to start good and run smooth. Other than glow plugs, injector return kit, and a couple injectors, I haven't done much to it.
Hank
p.s. anyone know where to get a trailer hitch for an ambulance?
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1989 Ford E-350 Ambulance, 7.3L, C6, 97k miles.
Oh man, no Overdrive? That's gonna cost you a friggin' bundle of money. At 97k miles, your IP is due for a rebuild. USE LOTSA PowerService or Standynes Lubricity Formula IN EVERY TANK OF FUEL to keep that IP turning. I think you're gonnna run outta power and you already don't have a turbo. Got tire chains? Propane heater and a GOOD sleeping bag for when you get stuck in snow storm. Research the weather and find out what time of day the tailwinds are going in your direction. If you come by the Tulsa, Ok. area, stop by for a rest. I'll have a psychiatrist standing by to "examine your [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif[/img] mind" for making that kind of a trip this time of year [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggrin.gif[/img]. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smokin.gif[/img]OkieGringo
If you have done all the preventative maintenance you will be fine. That ambulance is pretty heavy I imagine, and also with good tires on it, you will be fine. Just take it easy. Don't let that OG rattle you. With only 94K it is just getting broke in. Scotty
Here's what I'd do if I were taking a trip like that:
1. Do a mini tuneup. At least replace all return lines and o-rings that come in the kit.
2. Have an extra set of fan belts along as spares.
3. Check all battery/charger cables for fraying. Replace if necessary.
4. Wiggle the water pump shaft back and forth for checking the end play. If it isn't tight(no end play), replace it or carry a spare.
5. Bleed the brake system/put in new fluid.
6. Carry an extra vacuum pump.
7. Check the condition of the coolant/change if necessary. Use only the recommended stuff from IH or similar with SCA.
8. Check all other fluids for cleanliness and volume.
9. Change/clean air filter.
10. Cruise slow...55mph or so. Your wallet will thank you.
11. Use the stanadyne or powerservice as indicated by the other posters.
That's all I can think of right now.
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If you don't have anything to do, get a used diesel and a camper!
Truck 1: 1985 F350 dually 4WD 6.9 diesel crew cab auto with 83k original miles. C6 trans, 4.10 rear end. Mods are Banks Turbo, US Gear overdrive, 45gal rear tank, hydroboost brakes, additional leaf springs all around, Hellwig airbags, rear sway bar, GM glowplug controller, fuel Koalescer. 235/85 R16 Michelin XB Rib radials. 11ft.6in Vacationeer cabover camper, TorkLift tiedowns.
Truck 2: 1988 F250 7.3, C6 auto, 2WD w/3.55 limited slip rear axle, Banks Sidewinder Turbo, Gear Vendors overdrive, Utility box, hydraulic lift gate, lumber rack.
Auto: 1987 MBZ 300D Turbo 3.0 Liter 6 cylinder engine. 205K miles. Working on all the "little things" that previous owner neglected. Putting in wvo tank.
I think this is the same one I have on my ambulance.
__________________ 1991 Ford PL Custom Ambulance Type III 7.3L Diesel. Photo Here Pioneer AM/FM/XM/CD Stereo. Code 3 lightbar, Whelen Strobes and flasher lights. Whelen flood lights on front, rear and sides. There bright enough to turn darkness into daylight. Siren with several tones plus electronic airhorn and PA. Custom 3" exhaust from manifolds back with a Gibson Superflow Muffler [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]. Dual alternators and dual sets of batteries. If I need a jumpstart all I do is push a button. On spot tire chains that install and de-install themselves at the flip of a switch. Also has air compressor on board along with suction unit and O2 system.
1972 Cadillac Hightop Ambulance by Superior Lucky if I get 10MPG
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