[outsidebear]

I've an '86 6.9, the previous owner had changed out the factory/stock glow plug relay system and installed a 7.3 relay system - this may not affect my question, as it's just a relay for power?

Truck's been getting more stubborn about starting, so figured would check the glow plugs - it's only been about 5 years now!! Yes, a couple are no longer working. The existing glow plugs are Delphi HDS307 (Delphi HDS307-EYL-5V is what's marked on the glow plugs). Perhaps Motorcraft ZD9 or ZD?.

I'd inquired at the local Ford dealership (know the mechanics n' parts shop folks well, good guys) Parts says listed glow plugs for an '86 6.9 are no longer being carried by Ford.

Was hoping for German glow plugs.

My question is:
What would be proper/you folks recommend, glow plugs to use for replacing in my '86 (NO won't even consider AutoLite and would prefer Beru, as used in my '96 7.3 PS). OR, just order up some Delphi HDS307's n' call it good (realize could use them, but what do you folks consider might be better?). hmm would '87 7.3 glow plugs work, Beru P/N GV823 ???? Existing Delphi glow plugs have the round/bullet tip for connecting to '86 wiring harness.

thank you for your time n' input...

 

[chuckster57]

I have DieselRx plugs in my truck, AKA Wellman. Zero complaints going on 6 years.

 

[Trucker87]

The only difference between ZD1 (spade terminal) and ZD9 (pin terminal) is the connection. Either change the GP harness or replace the spade connector with pin. You can use a butt connector for the pin, 14/12 butt connector. Before crimping, slide a couple of 2" lengths of shrink tubing on, smaller tubing to fit 14 size,shrink it, then, larger tubing to fit 12, shrink it.

 

[outsidebear]

In doing further research since my original post:
1. HDS307 cross references to ZD971.
2. truck has an updated 7.3 gpr (88-94, or thereabouts), not an '86 gpr
3. pin/bullet type of glow plug harness had been installed by previous owner
4. will go with the ZD9 gp's
5. will soon replace the gpr with a manual/momentary gp controller
I had installed a manual gp control button in my '96 a few years ago.

A never ending learning curve with vehicles it is.
thank you all for your input n' suggestions.....it's appreciated

 

[bobleny]

5. will soon replace the gpr with a manual/momentary gp controller
I had installed a manual gp control button in my '96 a few years ago.

I always cringe a little when I hear this, and am therefore compelled to make sure you are aware of the potential risks with this setup.
The glow plugs for the '86, are 6 volt plugs, but they are ran on a 12 volt system. Which means, it does not take long for them to blow out. My testing on some cheap crappy plugs (champions or autolite, I don't remember which now) showed it only took about 7 seconds after they were warmed up to damage them.

I'm not telling you not to do it, just be aware it is easy to blow these plugs with a manual system.

 

[LMJD]

I agree, it's a little hard for the human thumb to detect how long to leave the glow plugs on compared to the electronic controller. I've found the 7.3 glowplug system is reasonably trouble-free. Other than changing the glow plugs a few times, I haven't touched my glowplug system since I bought the pickup new in '91.

 

[Eep]

I agree, it's a little hard for the human thumb to detect how long to leave the glow plugs on compared to the electronic controller. I've found the 7.3 glowplug system is reasonably trouble-free. Other than changing the glow plugs a few times, I haven't touched my glowplug system since I bought the pickup new in '91.

Would you say that is also the case for the original 6.9?
A PO to my '84 - not the original engine, which had a cracked block, but a used 6.9 that was installed - removed the gp controller and installed a manual push button. When my gp were still good, this system worked fine for me - held in button for 6 sec, released, waited a couple seconds, cranked and fired right up - actually needed to usually do that at least twice, depending on outside temp. GP's are currently toast. This has a ATS turbo installed, which is blown. Only way it currently runs is by removing the large hose going into ATS, give a short squirt of ether, then it fires right up.

I am by no means what-so-ever a mechanic. Only use this vehicle on rare occasions to tow a 1,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer from a community well to my cisterns (2 miles, private road), and to get fuel in town (21 miles each way). I'm thinking of taking it to a Ford dealer in Colo to replace the gp's. I'm thinking the manual button should stay as-is, since the system was working fine for me, with good gp's. I don't even do engine oil/filter changes. So I'll have them do that too, and fuel filter. Another question for me is what to do with the blown ATS. My thinking is if I can get the parts, to just go back to the stock air filter system.

Thanks for any suggestions and input. When running, engine sounds very strong. 4 spd tranny shifts tight and pulls just fine for my limited needs.

Harold

 

[LMJD]

Would you say that is also the case for the original 6.9?

Actually no, can't remember all the details, but the 6.9 system is different than the improved 7.3 system. I'm not that familiar with the 6.9 system but guys have complained about components failing whereas the later system is pretty bulletproof. Hopefully someone with a 6.9 can chime in and be more helpful.