IH Cargo Star with 6.9L

[moralem]

I am looking at buying a 1985 IH Cargo Star with a 6.9. I am not sure whether it is just an IH motor or a powerstroke so I need some help on knowing what problems to look for the truck is a dump truck and weighs in at 12K pounds it has an automatice Allison 4 speed. Or at least the build sheet said it was a four speed but the shifter on the dash only indicates it has 3 speeds. It has overall 300K miles but the top end was rebuilt by the previous owner and he machined the heads as well. The truck has been a farm truck for the last 6 years but does have a current inspection tag from Texas. It just needs to be registered at the DMV. Any feed back on this engine in such a large truck would be appreciated since I don't know what issues a 6.9 had in this IH iteration. Thanks.

[ryandamo]

Its definitely not a powerstroke, there's a few problems like glow plug controllers, and a few issues with cavitation. I just bought one 2 weeks ago, fired right up after 10 years. I recommend registering at the website oilburners.net, they have a very active 6.9/7.3 idi section along with tech articles that will help you

[moralem]

Thanks for the referral I will check them out. I have not closed the deal yet since they want 2500 and I am only wanting to pay 2000 in case there is something wrong with the truck. I am also looking at a 1980 Cargo Star with a DT 466 but they want 3000.

[FordGuy100]

As much as I love IDI's I would hate to drive one in a medium duty truck. Will probably be the slowest vehicle you have ever driven, ever. Oilburners is a great place for info.