You are right, it has a button on the opposite side that you push to start. I had a friend who owned an 8N. We never did a thing to that tractor except beat the s%*t out of it.
Dave
You should see a connector at the passengers foot well exterior wall. Use a test light to verify it is the parking lights and plug it in. I used a factory harness from the roof down to the foot well and it went like sliced bread.
Dave
Hi cruiser. You gotta tell us more about your truck, like the model and year. This makes a big difference in wiring. Add these facts to your signature so we don't have to keep asking. :)
Dave;tu
Your batteries need to be in great shape. These engines take a lot of power when cranking in the cold with the glow plug heaters going. Are your batteries in GREAT SHAPE?
Dave
Get a good scanner. This is completely necessary if you own a 6.0. It will save you BIG BUCKS! I use an AutoEnginiuity.com on my laptop. Great tool.
Dave ;tu
Take it out for a drive and see how it is. Tranny shifts good? Steering feel good or sloppy? Brakes? How does it drive and handle? Any unusual noised? Does everything work? It looks good from what information you have provided.
Dave ;tu
Maintenance is the key to any diesel engine. Change the filters and oil and you should not have many problems. Post if you think you are having a problem. The only stupid question is the one that is not asked! What kind of oil and filter are you running Matt?
Dave
I think I have found this for you; http://www.fordparts.com/Commerce/CatalogResults.aspx?y=2003&m=Ford&mo=Excursion&initSearch=1&partNo=7A784%20# Click on the second link for the diesel. Have fun...
Dave ;tu