Information Resource for the Duramax Diesel & 2500HD/3500 Trucks
Updated February 21, 2010
The new Duramax 6600 light-truck diesel engine has launched General Motors into the lead in performance, fuel economy, reliability, and driveability. Since 2000, our own in-house on-road towing tests, comparing GM, Ford & Dodge, have proven GM's Duramax to be the most towing-capable diesel engine.
This is not a General Motors Corporation web site. The Diesel Page is a membership based web magazine providing GM light-truck diesel enthusiasts with news and information designed to improve your ownership experience. Our membership program also helps each of us share a common interest and learn from each other. TheDieselPage.com will continue to have the most comprehensive collection of GM diesel editorial found anywhere.
The Duramax 6600 light-truck diesel engine is a result of a joint venture between Isuzu and General Motors Corporation (forming DMAX Ltd.). We'll have all the latest information and test reports as that information becomes available, both for the new Duramax 6600 diesel engine and the new drivetrain (including the Allison 1000 series automatic transmission). Please scroll down this page to see what information is currently available.
While many of the articles linked here are available to the public, some are reserved for subscribers. Please support our effort here, and visit this link to see how easy and inexpensive it is to become a subscribing member. You'll have access to even more diesel news, product tests and monthly feature articles devoted to the Duramax 6600 and the new GM 2500HD/3500 trucks.
Duramax Diesel Conversions The 1989 Chevy K1500 appearing here was the very first privately owned 1988-98 C/K LB7 Duramax diesel conversion. Go here to see the truck and learn more about Duramax conversion projects.
TheDieselPage.com Forum is now available. Join us for more discussion about GM's Duramax diesel engine and powertrain.
Original Duramax Related Articles Produced by TheDieselPage.com
This past February 4th, and we learned all about GM's plans for the 2011 model year GM 2500HD/3500 series pickups. Though we're expecting a price increase of $3,000-$5,000, due to the addition of the "Diesel Exhaust Fluid" (urea) system, GM is back with a range of improvements and upgrades that promise to make GM the HD diesel truck leader. Go here for all of the new truck details.
The 2010 emissions regulations are upon us - as well as GM. Here's an indepth look at the new 2011 LML Duramax 6600 and the new emissions equipment. How's it all work? What effect will it have on ownership? What else is new & different about the Duramax? We'll answer all these questions and more.
The chaos in the economy, the uncertain political climate and the trials GM has had these past 12 months have produced a flood of rumors on the Internet and certainly among the GM diesel community of pickup owners. Is the Duramax on borrowed time? Well.... for the time being no, but there have been a number of curious events that could cause one to believe that. This editorial discusses what I've heard, and despite the big hole in production, smart money expects the newest LML urea-equipped Duramax 6600 to appear in the 2011 model lineup. Go here for the details. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
Diesel engines are hard on head gaskets. No matter how well the gasket may have been designed, replacing the head gaskets can be an issue a longtime diesel owner may need to deal with. The Duramax was designed to produce a compression ratio (CR) of between 18:1 to 16.8:1, depending on model year. Add the high CR (compared to a gas engine) and the high power/torque output of these engines, and you know cylinder pressures are high. What I hope to do here is describe what symptoms appear when a head gasket or an LB7 injector cup begins leaking, which usually results in excessive cooling system pressure or a loss of coolant. Knowing what to look for can save you a lot of money if the problem is caught early, and taking care of the problem before it becomes worse can reduce both downtime and overall expense. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
Here is a story about a Duramax Diesel powered Massey Ferguson tractor owned by Lammert ter Heide, who lives in Holland. This is not the first GM diesel to power this particular tractor. Before the Duramax, Lambert powered his Massey with a 6.2L turbo diesel. More is better, so installing a Duramax promised to take the power to a new level, and make it very competitive during the popular tractor pulls now sweeping Europe.
Operating a diesel engine during the cold winter months demands that all diesel fuel and electrical systems operate normally. Included here is list of precautionary measures and cold weather strategies that will help your diesel pickup operate reliably throughout the coming winter. If you're new to the GM diesel, the information found here should help to answer your questions as well as reduce any anxiety you might have about cold weather operation. It's really easier than you think. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
Member Andrew Prince wrote recently to provide information concerning how he applied some rust prevention to his new truck. As some of you may recall, The Diesel Page produced an article in 2004 entitled, "Room for Improvement", which included some shots beneath the new trucks that showed far too many rusted components. In that 2004 article, we said "A certain segment of the Duramax powered 2500HD/3500 truck buying group is comprised of enthusiasts - those who obsess to some degree over the look, ride, utility or performance of their new truck. Including myself as part of that group, I've winced at certain details of the new trucks. GM could easily rectify the situation, and this article is intended to highlight some of what I feel needs attention." While there have been a few improvements made since 2004, with regard to rust control, more needs to be done. That's what this article is about.
Has the cooling efficiency of your truck's air conditioning system gone down hill in recent years? Does the inside of your truck smell like wet socks when it's damp outside? If so, maybe you need to replace the in-cab "Passenger Compartment Air Filter". One of the least talked about routine maintenance items is the passenger compartment air filter. Factory installed in the 1999-2002 GM full-size pickups, the in-cab air filter(s) was designed to trap dust, pollen, and other debris that might enter through the vehicle's fresh air vent system. In addition to making the in-cab environment a more pleasant place to spend time, filtering the air also helps to keep the A/C evaporator core and heater core functioning normally. We'll show you with large and clear photos how to easily replace the in-cab air filter. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
USDP's third annual Dyno Day was held this past June 6, 2009 here in Missoula Montana, and the crowd just keeps getting bigger each year. From morning till late afternoon, 42 of the Big Three's diesel pickups rolled across the Mustang dyno rollers and kept everyone entertained.
Pickup trucks and large sport utility vehicles have been GM's most profitable automotive segment. Pickup truck sales accounted for just 1% of the total automotive sales volume in 1959, while trucks (pickups & large SUV's) totaled 64% of GM sales in 2005. Due to their enormous popularity, pickups aren't going away anytime soon, and the Duramax Diesel will remain a big factor in driving pickup sales.
Added June 17th MagnaFlow Performance Exhaust Systems
Do you really need to install a performance exhaust system before adding power?
Does an aftermarket exhaust system really make a difference in dyno or towing performance?
Real-life testing is the best way to answer these questions.
Product Review: Factory exhaust systems have improved considerably though the years, with mandrel-bent 3-1/2" or 4" tubing now being the norm. You've probably read quite a few exhaust system reviews through the years, and saw the rear-wheel horsepower improvement following the installation of a performance exhaust system. The installation photos were nice and the dyno numbers usually reinforce the notion that an aftermarket exhaust system allows the engine to make more power and help to provide a safety margin when installing performance products. What's the real story?
As is typical for any production engine, the manufacturer can introduce design changes throughout the production life as experience is gained through warranty repairs. GM recently released the most recent upgrade in cylinder head gasket design as well as new head bolt torque specifications for the LB7, LLY and early LBZ engines. The second-generation head gasket will require a new lower head bolt torque angle specification as well as special cleaning methods for the head/block gasket surfaces. Go here for all of the details. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
Added May 19th Automotive CAN OBD2 Code Scanner Model - T50e
Product review: Being able to read and erase trouble codes is a basic necessity these days - especially for anyone owning a GM diesel truck that is out of warranty. Even if your truck is still covered by the factory powertrain warranty, knowing what that "service engine soon" light means and how serious the problem might be can help you when scheduling service or can help you gain some insight into what the problem might be. The inexpensive T50e can can help you save money on vehicle maintenance.
To promote goodwill and maintain the reputation of the Duramax 6600, GM offered a generous 7-year or 200,000 mile injector replacement warranty to all LB7 owners. This was good news to those owning 2001-2004.5 Duramax equipped truck, and the extended warranty did save a lot of owners a lot of money on injector replacement. But, all that has already or will soon be coming to an end. The first LB7 Duramax powered trucks are coming up on nine years old. The first two model years for the Duramax are now past the 7-year time limit, and those owners have to bite the bullet and pay for any injector replacement out of their own pocket. For the past thirteen years The Diesel Page has been here to help members save money on engine service, and that's why we're presenting this do-it-yourself fuel injector replacement tech story. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
After a long winter here in the Northwest U.S., most diesel pickup owners are ready for a trip to the Southwest - Southwest Canada to be precise, the home of BD Diesel Performance and their semi-annual Dyno Day. Despite the gray skies, hundreds of diesel enthusiasts made their way to Abbotsford, British Columbia last spring on April 5th, and a total of sixty trucks spun the rollers from early morning through late afternoon. If you like power, this was a great way to spend a day, to both learn more about diesel performance and have an opportunity to see trucks push the Mustang dyno to nearly 1000-hp.
Bringing new life to an older truck is more than just a way to save a ton of money. A surprising number of members keep the same vehicle for decades, and want to do all they can to keep it on the road. Converting the drivetrain to Duramax/Allison power has become a popular upgrade for the GM fans, which increases the vehicle's capability. Member Kean Clark is currently working his way through a 1987 Chevy C30 restoration and Duramax conversion project, and we wanted to share his progress with the GM community.
The question of whether we should be using synthetic diesel motor oil in our GM diesel engines has been a popular subject for a long time. Synthetic oil has some definite advantages over the available conventional motor oils, but are there any measurable benefits that justify the added expense? Find out here! Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
This annotated Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) list is specific to the Allison 1000 automatic transmission. Being armed with a good basic knowledge about the Allison trouble codes can help to ensure a better level of service if you have an in-warranty truck or can save you a lot of money if your truck is now out of warranty. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
This annotated Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) list contains all of the Duramax diesel engine-specific trouble codes relating to the engine. We've learned through the years that while a typical GM service technician may understand gas engines and their related powertrains quite well, a talented diesel mechanic is much harder to find. Being armed with a good basic knowledge about the diesel systems incorporated into your truck can help to ensure a better level of service if you have an in-warranty truck or can save you a lot of money if your truck is now out of warranty. Want to know what the codes are, what they mean, how to retrieve them and know how to repair the problem? Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
Back about the time the auto makers began using electronic fuel injection, they discovered that for the onboard computer to correctly calculate the fuel/air ratio, they needed to measure the incoming air flow to the engine. Electronic fuel injection not only allowed the engine to run more efficiently and to produce better fuel economy and drive-ability, but MAF sensor data also allowed the computer to help protect the engine if the ratio of fuel to air fell outside of normal. The Duramax diesel also employs a MAF sensor, which is used to measure the grams/second of air entering the engine's intake system. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
The 2001 model-year and newer GM Duramax diesels were all equipped with the "drive-by-wire" Bosch high-pressure common-rail electronic fuel injection system. While the Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) module has performed reliably through the years, the first Duramax equipped trucks are now more than 8 years old, and knowing how the APP operates and how to troubleshoot a problem could be a huge help in the future. Thirteen diagnostic trouble codes are discussed, and we'll walk you through the troubleshooting process. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
Those of us who have been following GM's on-again off-again diesel Suburban program over the past eight years were beginning to lose faith whether we would ever see a production version. The wait may be coming to an end as GM unveiled its proposed 4.5L Duramax powered Suburban to an enthusiastic crowd during last fall's annual SEMA show. The most recent news we have is that GM will begin production of the 4.5L V-8 sometime in the second half of 2009 (as a 2010 model year), and will introduce this new engine in a variety of full-size vehicles, including the popular Suburban. Go here for more engine details. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
Product Review: A dual-bypass oil filtration system and synthetic motor oil can extend drain intervals by at least 8 times when compared to conventional oil and filters, and can extend the life of your engine. Follow along as we show you how to install Amsoil's Dual By-Pass oil filteration system and show you the analytical results of cleaner oil.
All those who haven't been living under a rock have probably noticed that the cost of diesel fuel has risen to the "Arm & Leg" level at your neighborhood fuel station. You have to know that the "five finger discounters" have also noticed. Save money on your fuel costs by buying a genuine diesel locking fuel cap directly from your local GM dealer. Go here for the installation instructions. Now available to subscribers in the Member's Area.
This editorial is the result of a conversation we were having in our bulletin board forum about exporting diesel fuel and high diesel fuel prices, which motivated me to dig deeper into our nation's energy policies and use of petroleum. What I learned is that time is running out. Aside from the opinions expressed, this editorial catalogs what conventional and unconventional oil sources currently exist here in the United States. Almost everyone believes that becoming energy independent is vital to the future of the country. How much oil are we using? How much is the world using? How much are we paying for imported oil, and how long can we continue to pay? Do we have the will to become energy independent? Do we actually have a choice?
We've always been concerned about fuel economy. That's why many diesel owners bought a diesel in the first place, and is precisely why I bought a 6.2L diesel powered GMC K1500 in the 1980's. Compared to today, fuel was relatively cheap back in the day, but nearly everyone was still concerned about the cost of fuel. Where we once saw diesel fuel at less than $1.30/gallon in the mid 90's, as of May 2008 we're seeing a painful $4.30 or higher. This upward trend will likely continue. What we hope to do here is illustrate powertrain management strategies and modifications that can help to improve fuel economy and save you money. Available to subscribers now in the Member's Area.
Like many of you who use your diesel pickup truck or Suburban to tow trailers or haul heavy loads, I use my Suburban to tow a 30 foot travel trailer that tips the scales at a hefty 8500#. Over time, this has caused the rear springs on my 3/4 ton Suburban to relax so that the rear now sits lower than the front even while unloaded. With models available to fit all 6.5L or Duramax powered pickup trucks and Suburbans, I eventually settled on the AirLift adjustable air springs as being the best solution to this problem. Follow along as we take you through the kit introduction, installation and show how the air springs solved the problem. Available to subscribers now in the Member's Area.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code P0093 applies to the 2001 model-year Duramax. This trouble code was updated for the 2002-2004 model year engines, and received a new number - P1093. Each refers to the same problem. P0093 & P1093 are defined as "Fuel System Large Leak Detected", which could mean that one or more injectors are experiencing a high fuel-return flow rate. People usually start looking beneath the truck for signs of fuel, but this isn't that kind of a leak. Let's have a look at these, and other related trouble codes, to provide a little more insight into what they mean and how to deal with them. Available to subscribers now in the Member's Area.
Product Review: For several years now, we've been hearing reports of transfer case fluid leaks due to a wear-through on the rear case half. If not caught before a leak develops, the transfer case could suffer complete failure due to a lack of lubrication. The most reliable solution includes installing an aftermarket part that prevents a case wear-through from happening. Follow along as we show you the problem and describe what it takes to produce a permanent solution.
Added November 15th DirtyMax Pro-Stock Duramax Diesel
Seemingly overnight, diesel drag racing has swept the nation, and is becoming more popular as each racing season passes. To help fill the need for speed, more retired Pro-Stock drag race trucks are being brought out of retirement, but not to run blown nitro burning bigblocks. Nope... The trucks are rocketing down the track with the state-of-the-art in diesel performance. Brad Makinen brought new life to a retired gas Pro-Stock truck in the form of "Dirtymax", a Duramax diesel powered Chevy 1500. This truck appeared at a drag race event I attended this past June here in Montana, which provided an opportunity to look beneath the fiberglass skin to see what it takes to make a Pro-Stock diesel run in the 8-9 second range. Available to subscribers now in the Member's Area.
Added October 15th Turbochargers For the GM 6.5 & Duramax
Learning more about turbocharger theory can help the performance-oriented Duramax owner achieve a level of cool-running and long-term performance beyond that provided by the factory turbocharger. Available now in the Member's Area.
Added August 15th Chevy -Vs- Ford Tow testing the new emissions LMM Duramax and 6.4L Powerstroke
A recent pickup truck ad I saw on television said: "Truck guys will tell you taking off with 10,000-lbs ain't no picnic. Stopping 10,000-lbs ain't no picnic either." We agree. Towing tests are few and far between in the automotive media. Most of what we see are dyno results, 1/4-mile elapsed times, and generalized reports about on-road capability. Those types of tests can provide some clue about what we might expect to see while towing a heavy trailer, but they fall short of a real towing evaluation. Part of what most potential GM & Ford buyers really want to know is how the newest diesel pickups stack up against one another in a real-world towing test on a real hill while towing a trailer that weighs at least 10,000-lbs. That's what this test was all about.
General Motors announces an all-new 4.5-liter V-8 Duramax high-output diesel engine for the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra light-duty pickup trucks and the HUMMER H2. The engine fuel efficiency offers a 25 percent advantage compared with gasoline engines. Environmental benefits of the new engine include a 13-percent reduction in CO2 versus gasoline engines, and at least a 90-percent reduction in particulates and NOx when compared to diesel vehicles today. GM-Media News Release
After six years and nine months of continuous production, DMAX Ltd., the maker of the Duramax 6600, celebrated producing its 1,000,000th engine on April 16, 2007. According to DMAX, they can sell all of the engines they produce and more. Go here to see the story and learn more about what makes the Duramax 6600 so successful.
The new VIN code 6 2007i LMM Duramax equipped trucks have arrived, and along with them the new DOC/DPF (Diesel Oxidation Converter/Diesel Particulate Filter). Changes in the emissions system are the big news, and this article should help to explain what's new & different and shine a light on what LMM owners need to know to have the fewest problems. Go here to see original photos of the new emissions components, and learn how these components function. Do we need to worry about the 2007 emissions systems? Available now in the Member's Area.
I recently upgraded the stock mirrors on my 2005 GMC 2500HD to the 2006 model trailer towing mirrors. Although the stock mirrors extended for trailer towing, I was not happy with the narrow field of view the stock mirrors provided. For the 2006 model year, GM released a new style extendable towing mirror, similar to the Ford SD towing mirrors. Go here for a photo-illustrated step-by-step guide to installation. Available now in the Member's Area.
Here, you'll find 43 of the top GM Technical Service Bulletins pertaining to these trucks and the Duramax/Allison drivetrain. Included are the bulletin number, the title and a summary for all 43 listed bulletins. This compilation contains great information you need to know. Available now in the Member's Area.
Going all the way back to 2000, GM has admonished technicians and vehicle owners not to allow the metal-cased ECM (Engine Control Module) and TCM (Transmission Control Module) to be used as a grounding location that could subject the electrical system to excessive electrical current. Find out what happens when this occurs. Available now in the Member's Area.
Designed to meet the 2007 emissions regulations, the 2007 LMM Duramax 6600 diesel engines have met the challenge, and continue to lead in power & torque. More power and torque are the good news. Go here to learn all of the details about the new engine and its application.
Added November 15th SEMA Trucks Go Big or Go Home!
Trucks at SEMA were there to attract attention - and boy did they! Each of the 2100+ Vendors and manufacturers who attend the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association event needed something special to lure some of the 100,000+ passers-by (and the media) into their booth. Having an eye catching truck helps them do just that, and this year was no exception. Here is a collection of GM, Ford & Dodge (and Toyota) trucks I thought stood out in some way from the others at SEMA 2006. Have a look!
Product Review: The Allison 1000-Series 5/6-speed transmissions are simply the best and most durable automatics to ever have been installed in a pickup truck. When using stock power, it's practically impossible to hurt the transmission or exceed its torque handling capability. As good as the Allison is, however, it's still possible to exceed its torque handling capability when using a power adder. Most Allisons will hang onto at least 75 additional horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, but living on the ragged edge can take a toll on long-term durability. This is why installing a performance-built Allison can increase the fun!
Reducing emissions components found in diesel exhaust is not without its share of engineering challenges and increased cost. While some fear for the future of the light-truck diesel market, we here at The Diesel Page remain optimistic - in fact, confident that the current trend in light-truck diesel usage will continue. Go here to find out what we'll need to know and how the new fuel and emissions requirements will affect all of us.
GM has a lot riding on the 2007 model year. With nearly 50% of all new vehicles sold in the U.S. being pickup trucks, this market is something General Motors simply has to do well in. Introduced as a 1999 model, the outgoing Silverado is now eight model years old, and has begun losing ground to the fresh faces offered by both foreign and domestic competitors. Enter the GMT-900, a new for 2007 body style that introduces a long list of refinements in addition to all new sheet metal. Included here are new photos and information about the new 1500 series trucks, and we'll discuss how the design features shown here could appear in the upcoming 2500HD/3500.
A looming grade can either induce dread or anticipation; depending on whether you're driving the highest rated diesel pickup the "big three" have to offer. Included here is an accounting of the 12 trucks that pulled the hill this year, which included 4- Duramax's, 4- Powerstrokes, 2- Dodge Cummins, and 2- 6.5TD's. Find out what truck is the King of the Hill.
After considering all the various cold air intakes systems available for my truck, I decided to develop my own, which only cost a few dollars and an hour or so to complete. Keeping the intake air as cool as possible improves power and may improve fuel economy. While inexpensive, this modification retains the excellent filtering ability of the stock air intake system.
Product review: Last month we showed you how to update the 2001-2004 LB7 Duramax ECM with one programmed for more power & better fuel economy. This month, we look at the 2004.5-2005 LLY Duramax ECM.
Added June 15th Custom Programming the LB7 Duramax ECM
More Power - Better Fuel Economy!
Product Review: The various electronic power products have done a remarkable job of increasing Duramax diesel performance, but till now, we've had to accept whatever programming or tuning options were offered by the aftermarket. The recent appearance of custom ECM (Engine Control Module) programming has increased the number of options for nearly every truck owner, whether they're looking for a few more miles per gallon, a safe towing program or a killer track tune. Kennedy Diesel is now offering custom ECM tuning, which provides for a host of additional programming features.
There are two schools of thought regarding performance product development for the diesel market. One is the shotgun approach, where you make an intuitive guess about what method or design would improve performance - first trying one approach then another, hoping to achieve a performance improvement. The second approach is where a design is taken from the theoretical to production, which achieves the performance goals set by the client. This is the realm of engineers - light truck diesel engineers in particular. I spent some time recently with the folks at BD - Diesel Performance in BC Canada, and learned more of what it takes to correctly design a range of products that really do improve performance - the right way.
In an effort to reduce cold-start induced white smoke, GM has upgraded the glow plugs, the glow plug controller and the ECM programming on a continuing basis since first introducing the first Duramax 6600 in the fall of 2000. The 2006 Duramax, identified as either RPO code LLY (early '06 models) or LBZ (late '06 models), saw another glow system upgrade. Faster-acting glow plugs and shorter cycle times combine to further reduce white smoke after a cold start, while helping to make diesel engine operation more transparent to those more familiar with starting a gas engine. However, there have been a few bumps in the road regarding the 2006 glow system.
The NEW Duramax Conversions bound volume is now available! This color laser printed 60-page bound volume contains 104 images & diagrams and descriptive text covering what you'll need to know when installing an LB7 Duramax 6600 diesel engine and Allison 1000 automatic transmission into a 1988-98 classic C/K GM pickup truck or Suburban. Click Here to see a full description of what the conversion guide includes.
The NEW Duramax 6600 1999-2004 bound volume is now available! The Duramax 6600 - 1999-2004 volume contains every important feature article, product review and tech article that appeared here in The Diesel Page from 1999 through early 2004. Written by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, this is the most comprehensive collection of Chevy/GMC Duramax 6600 and vehicle related information available to truck owners. All totaled, there are 43 articles in 189 information packed pages, and illustrated with 290 photos.
Your truck is fast, but just how fast is it? Or, maybe you've added some performance equipment, and can't really tell whether the additions (and the costs involved) made a difference. Chassis dynamometers and 1/4-mile tracks can be used to accurately measure vehicle performance, but for most of us, getting to a track or dyno can be both expensive and oh so inconvenient. That's the beauty of the G-tech. Relatively inexpensive, yet accurate, performance meters like the G-tech Pro RR featured here allow you to test and tune at any safe and convenient location and as often as you'd like. The G-Tech Pro is the latest rendition of performance meters manufactured by Telsa Electronics, Inc. Let's have a look at what the G-tech can do for you. Available now in the Member's Area.
Fuel Quality can determine whether your diesel fuel injection system provides typical service or whether you are plagued with frequent visits to the dealership. GM recently upgraded the factory fuel filter element in an effort to help protect the Bosch high-pressure common-rail fuel injection system used by the Duramax 6600. Trapping more and smaller particles in the fuel can improve both fuel quality and injection system longevity. Lubrication Specialist Greg Landuyt has developed an easy to install and cost effective auxiliary fuel filter kit that can add a significant safety margin to the diesel fuel you're using.
Product Review: As diesel fuel injection systems become more complex and more sensitive to fuel quality, owners have become more tuned-in to the nature of diesel fuel systems. Being able to check fuel pressure (vacuum) can help an owner diagnose a future problem or allow him to monitor the condition of the fuel filter in an on-going basis. This not only can save you a lot of frustration in the high-stakes game of vehicle service, but can save you money on fuel filters by not replacing them till the fuel restriction gauge tells you it's time.
Got Boost? KD Boost Valve for the 2001-2004 LB7 Duramax 6600
Product Review: There's an old saying that says "offer a great $5 part that installs in 5 minutes, and you'll sell a million of them." Well, the KD boost valve might be a little more than $5, but it is still inexpensive, installs in minutes, and offers a lot of bang for the buck. This simple device increases maximum boost pressure about ~5-8 psi, and makes the factory LB7 turbo a lot more responsive under all operating conditions. Combine this with any one of a variety of Duramax power mods, and you'll see an even bigger improvement in power than what a power mod by itself delivers.
The third annual Edge Products' "Weekend on the Edge" event was held near Salt Lake City, Utah this past September. For anyone who loves diesel engines, fast trucks and big-big power, this was a weekend you didn't want to miss. Click the above link to read more about it.
We hear of Allison fluid leaks every once in a while, and have recently experienced one ourselves. Most of these leaks result in automatic transmission fluid dripping off the bellhousing area of the transmission. An input shaft seal problem probably comes to mind first, but as we've learned, these seals are rarely the cause. Follow along we show you what to look for and how to repair a leaky Allison. Available now in the Member's Area.
The 2006 model-year Chevy & GMC diesel pickups began arriving on dealer lots in August of this year. While not much has been added or changed to the pickup styling or option list, the big news is the new RPO code LBZ Duramax 6600 diesel engine. Go here for a look at the new trucks and to learn more about the new uprated Duramax diesel engine.
Making big power these days requires help to burn all of the fuel provided by the power modules and programs used in competition, and nitrous helps burn that fuel and make more power. If you're after the most Duramax diesel performance, all roads lead to nitrous oxide.
The number of different gauges and gauge accessories has grown considerably since our 2002 gauge install piece. I recently stopped by to see the folks at USDieselParts.com, and got acquainted with what's new for those looking for gauges and gauge accessories. Let's have a look.
Measuring engine and drivetrain performance on a real hill and with a real load is in essence what a Pull-Off is all about. Each Pull-Off has two primary objectives: 1- To learn how stock diesel pickup performance evolves with each new model year, and 2- Track the performance improvements made possible by the aftermarket. The Pull-Off is simply the best way to measure the towing performance of a diesel pickup truck. What's it take for a modified truck to rule the hill? Click the above link to learn more!
TheDieselPage.com Editorial LT265/75R16
What you need to know before upsizing tires on your Chevy/GMC 2500HD
Tire size is a proportional feature that plays into how we perceive the appearance of a pickup truck. Most agree the factory tire size for the 2500HD of 245/75R16 has always appeared to be too small. Nearly all agree - except that is, for GM.
A bright yellow Service Engine Soon or Message Center warning usually means trouble. Luckily, this "Service 4WD" Message Center warning light often means you'll just need to replace the pushbutton switch panel that controls the NV-263 selectable-shift transfer case (RPO code NP1). Go here to find out how. Available now in the Member's Area.
The key ingredients to more turbodiesel power are more fuel and higher boost pressures. The Banks Big Head incorporates an adjustable turbo wastegate linkage, allowing you to raise boost pressure to get that power increase.
Performance tuning/flash programmers appear to be carving out a market with the Duramax performance crowd - and for good reason. Programmers offer a number of unique features that make them a "must have" for any Duramax owner. Here is a brief summary of five Duramax power programmers, and a list of features available for your Duramax.
Product review: Big power can stress unmodified chassis and suspension components in ways that limit overall truck performance. Pushing ¼-mile times into the 13's is relatively easy. Going faster requires more power, more effort and more attention to chassis setup. The recent installation of Kennedy Diesel's traction bar system in our Duramax Diesel hot-rod is a step toward the 11's. Available now in the Member's Area.
We're always looking forward to the mid-year announcements of the upcoming model lineup for GM's 2500HD/3500 pickup trucks. Evolutionary changes to both the exterior appearance and to mechanical/electrical systems enhance function and help improve ownership satisfaction, and the 2005 models continue that tradition. While we tend to focus on the 2500HD/3500 models, you'll find the powertrain specs for the gas engine equipped trucks here as well as those powered by the Duramax diesel.
Introduced in January of 2004, the RPO code LLY Duramax 6600 incorporates a number of significant technology changes. Two forces control diesel engine evolution for all engine manufacturers - Emissions compliance and market share. The technology changes introduced with the LLY address both of these forces. Creating an engine with more power and lower emissions has become more challenging, but that's exactly what the LLY delivers.
Product Review: You hold in your hands one of the most remarkable power upgrades available... So begins Edge's product description on the back of the box. After having spent some time with the new Juice/Attitude, I tend to agree. In addition to the 5-level 0-150 horsepower increase (depending on model) available at just the touch of a button, the Edge Juice with Attitude monitor combine to produce a truly comprehensive engine performance package for the Duramax diesel.
Product Review: Squeezing the last bit of performance out of a turbo diesel involves improving exhaust flow and intake airflow. Performance air intake systems are the best way to help your engine breathe, and AFE produces a line of products to help achieve maximum intake air flow. Documenting performance improvements using a chassis dyno helps answer many questions, and we thought you might be interested to learn what we discovered after installing an AFE Stage II performance air intake system on our 2001 GMC 2500HD equipped with the Duramax/Allison.
General Motors has extended the Duramax 6600 fuel injector warranty coverage for owners of all 2001 through 2004 model-year Chevrolet and GMC Duramax 6600 equipped pickup trucks. Go here to read all about it.
Product Review: General Motors' 6.6L Duramax turbocharged diesel engine was introduced in the 2001 model year 2500HD/3500 pickup trucks and chassis cabs. Along with the new engine came the Bosch high-pressure common-rail fuel injection system. Fuel pressures as high as 23,000-psi demand much from the high-pressure pump and solenoid-controlled fuel injectors, and the less than stellar quality and cleanliness of the available diesel fuel here in the US may present some durability and longevity challenges for these components. Supplemental fuel filtration may be required.
Uni Foam Racing Air Filters With applications for the
6.5L & Duramax 6600
Product Review: Today's performance air filters must excel at two vitally important and yet polar opposite functions. First, they must allow the engine to breathe without unnecessarily restricting airflow. Second, today's performance air filter is also judged by its dirt capturing ability. Truck owners in the know demand an air filter that allows an engine to perform up to its full potential yet stops virtually 100% of all harmful dust and other airborne contaminants. Creating the perfect blend of unrestricted airflow and maximum dirt stopping ability is the goal of today's performance air filter manufacturers.
Chevrolet's flagship SUV just got a significant boost in power and capability. Effortless towing and the potential for 20+ miles per gallon make this arguably the single best Suburban ever... Available now in the Member's Area.
Sometimes you don't know what you've been missing in your truck's ride quality till you install a new set of shocks. The factory-installed shocks had just 28,000 miles on them, and given the fact that this is a 9200-lb GVW pickup truck, I thought the original shocks were doing an OK job. Installing a new set of Bilstein shocks let me know what I was missing.
Many Duramax/Allison related articles are now available to members of The Diesel Page in the Member's Area Duramax Page.
Industry News:
August 25, 2005: GM announced a voluntary customer satisfaction program (#05546) for current owners of Duramax diesel equipped vehicles. In a letter dated August 2005, current registered owners were informed that they are eligible for one free fuel filter replacement, and GM has instructed their dealer network to perform this service free of charge through September 30, 2006. Please contact your local dealer to learn more about this free offer, or call 1-888-996-9463 if you need more information.
