[riceburner]

My 95 van acts like it is dead on a hole and a half, of course I have checked what I can, changed the fuel pump, cleaned filters, changed the upper end oil, new filters etc... but still has the poor running problem. It does make good boost 15lbs+ all stock.

There is the chance of under cover harness being bad, I haven't pulled the valve covers because of the labor involved and if I have to do the injectors at the same time I want to have my **** together.

I have also been told that it could be a compression problem, my question is fairly simple:

If the unit is low on compression on one or more cylinders and the injectors are firing as they should, will there be excessive exhaust smoke from the unburned fuel being introduced into the low cylinders? OR if there is an injector (or two) that is not injecting will there be little to no smoke? (like it is)

Thanks in advance.

 

[Bernhardt]

Yes....



At least eventually you'll get smoke if case 1. May take a long while.

 

[ford_doctor]

I would also have to say yes as well... typically. BUT I would not rule out a base engine concern with a bad misfire especially on an older engine. I would perform a manual compression test before slamming injectors in any engine because you need to eliminate that before condemning the injector.

 

[Nit]

comp test on a van is a PITA, what about codes? got any, CEL on?, scan it adn do a buzz test, a cyl. contribution test,a sniff test, check the outer plugs etc.
99% of problems are electrical when it comes to injectors not firing.
you can even run it and pull each plug and see.

 

[riceburner]

My van only has 140k on it, so you can tell that it doesn't get allot of driving, except to the race track with the trailer behind.

There is no CEL, problem I have around here is finding somebody that can do a buzz test for less than $500.00.

Since there is no smoke from the exhaust I tend to think that it is an injector or injectors that arent firing as they are supposed to, but like has been noted taking the valve covers off in the van really sucks.

Any suggestions on how I could do a buzz test myself?

Thanks again.

 

[ford_doctor]

Valve covers on a 7.3L van is a cake walk. Seriously, it is not hard at all once you get the air intake tube out of your face. If this were a 6.0L THEN you are talking about a slightly more difficult procedure.

As for doing a buzz test for $500 are you serious?

 

[riceburner]

I live in Orange County, California...everything costs $500.00 and when you do get a diagnosis it generally is one that is easiest on the technician and most expensive to the customer.

 

[blageurt]

For 400 bucks you can buy AE and scan it / Contribiution test yourself for as many times as you want all you need is a cheap PII or PIII laptop or better( 100 bucks max ) and at least you will know which direction to go.... AutoEnginuity® - OBD2 Scan Tool - Professional PC and PDA DiagnosticsI would bet all you need is new gaskets and UVC harnesses and maybe new engine connectors your mileage is way too low for injector issues unles the Previos owner ran gasoline through it or some other crap fuel.... 7.3 Power Stroke diesel glow plug related parts

 

[riceburner]

one problem is all of that is for a 96 or newer, mine is a 95, only stuff that was ever in the motor besides diesel fuel is some Lucas fuel treatment and only 1 or two bottles when we were on the road using multiple tanks of fuel at a time.

I did use some Lucas oil treatment about 4 years ago, the oil has been changed several times since then and I have changed the top end oil. I have heard horror stories from guys that have used it so I am scared that maybe part of the problem.

 

[Bernhardt]

You van will talk just fine to AE, as it is OBDII compliant. 1996 was the majic year where all car & light trucks needed to be. Some vehicles were before that. I don't think the Lucas stuff did anything to your engine, but you really should use some form of fuel additive everytime - keeps the system clean & some of the additives more than pay for themselves via better MPG.