don`t want to clutter up your Livi`n the dream thread with tech info so will post it here .
great read been reminiscing the area been a while need to go pass again.
7,3 are cold natured as you well know

so a few thing ya can do to improve the cold start.
the glow plugs stay on way after the light goes out so way I do is wait till I hear the fuel pump quit then try jut a few revs turn key off repeat wait till the pump quits then try again crank no more than 3 to4 sec in most cases will fire if not try one more time.
it is possible that you have a glow plug problem just have to test the system several good vids on youtube .
not sure what oil u are running but 7.3 do like the Motorcraft diesel oil has additives to help against the sheering of the HP pump going to 3200 psi.
didn`t believe it till I tried it a big difference.
here is a list of spares ya may want to consider caring
fuel filter two
Cam position sensor two they are all POS & can leave ya F- O- R- D
a fuel pump is nice to carry as well and the spring lock tool for the fuel line.
a injector control pressure sensor can fail & also leave ya in F-O-R-D mode.
not an absolute requirement cause can just unplug it truck will run fine but will through a engine light.
other than those items they are built proof
