I have an 85 model 6.9 I want to gain power and acceleration. Would I be better off upgrading to a truck with a power stroke or upgrade mine?

 

go with a 4" exhaust system and a large k&n air filter under hood .... you will love it after that .... if she dont leak any oil .... switch to royal ourple 15/40 ..... more power and mpg ....

 

Ok I def try that! As far as the exhaust goes. Is it easy enough to install that myself. I am mechanically inclined just never done it before. Where would you recommend I purchase it from?

 

A turbo kit is gonna get you the biggest gain. These IDI's aren't known for huge power numbers or blistering speed. They take a whipping and ask for more, reliability is the biggest selling point for these things. With the basic bolt on parts you may get close to 200HP/400TQ, more can be had but involves much more in depth work....and money.

 

This

 

a stock 88 7.3 idi is rated at 185 hp 480tq ...... a turbo will help , but its not cheep and will , in the end cause more reliability issuez that it solves ...... manny people have bolted in turbo kits and been happy ..... till the HG blows up and then blame the truck ...... about 10 psi is really all these engines can handle with out being built for a turbo specifically ......

that being said , if you really wanna build some power ur gonna need a power stroke .... not super hard to fins but most have auto trans issues .... ur kinda stuck when it comes to a diesel ..... they all have some draw backs .... even the cummins I own .... trans issues .... once built its great , its all about what ur willing to do to make is your own ......