New to the site and looking for diesel knowledge and wisdom.
I recently just purchased my first diesel truck. It is a 94 7.3L idi, non turbo. It had a popped engine at purchase but former owner had the replacement engine purchased to go with the sale. The engine was out of an E350 van idi as well. Now I know this about the truck thus far: E40d transmission, 4:10 running gear, 4x4 crewcab xl model. I was considering investing in a turbo until a diesel mechanic told me it could possibly beat the wrist pins out of the engine. Is this true at even low boost of 10-15 psi? I read these engines have the forged crank and connecting rods but smaller wrist pins and higher compression pistons when compared to the turbo version or power strokes. I am looking for fuel economy as a daily driver and longevity. My heavy tow involves possibly a 1.5 tons of coal in the bed and 4,000lb for the boat. The replacement engine had 120,000 miles hauling the amish, no towing of trailers and such. Everything on the truck as far as driveline and exhaust are still stock. Your thoughts on Turbo kits and tranny tricks please.

 

if your state allows cut your muffler off,bump up your fuel a turn or too,buy an parometer to watch the exhuast temps,as far as the turbo or not,i have two 94 f250 a non turbo and a turbo the non turbo has the fuel turned up and runs as good as the turbo that doesnt have the fuel turned up the big diff is pulling heavy load the stock turbo makes a diff.

 

Invest in boost, trans temp, EGT gauges, and a turbo.
The factory turbo IDIs had the same compression but bigger wrist pins. The powerstroke had a lower compression.
Long story short; Turbo, straight pipe, a little more fuel, good air intake and some gauges to keep an eye on everything, And you'll be fine.