The 6.6L Duramax engine by GM and Isuzu’s joint venture is one of the most popular GMC diesel engines in the market.
Launched in 2001, it had evolved loads throughout its 6 editions. The last one was launched in 2017 for GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado.
Over the past two decades, the joint venture has produced six variants of the Duramax diesel engine, including the 6.6L L5P Duramax diesel engine still in production today.
People looking for used low mileage engines for sale often explore the Duramax engines of older editions. It’s a popular option for General Motors pick-up trucks, vans, and medium-duty trucks. That’s because they lack emission control parts which are often blamed for engine troubles in modern engines.
As a buyer, you may wonder—Is the Duramax V8 6.6L a good engine?
Keep reading for the answer to your question.
Specifications of Duramax V8
The 6.6L Duramax diesel engine first came into production in 2001 for GMC Sierra trucks with RPO ZW9. It was powering several chassis cabs or trucks with a pickup box.
In the beginning, the horsepower and torque numbers of this engine landed at 300 hp @ 3100 RPM and 520 lb-ft @ 1800 RPM. Over the years, GM improved this engine to much extent in an attempt to offer power and fuel economy together. The latest edition of the Duramax engine offers 445 horsepower @ 2800 RPM and 910 lb-ft of torque @ 1600 RPM.
Towing Capability
Out of all GMC diesel engines, the best towing capacity comes with Duramax 6.6L V8 engine. The 2017 model of Duramax engine has a maximum capacity of 23,300 pounds. The most recent version further increased those figures to 36,000 pounds.
Lifespan
The 6.6L Duramax diesel engine is in the reliable and durable category. If you want your GMC used engine to last for a long time, this is the right choice. With regular maintenance, this engine can survive up to 200,000 miles or more.
Maintenance
Duramax engines need proper maintenance to keep up with their performance. Any sort of negligence in maintenance can lead to sludge build-up, overheating, or clogged filters. Even one of these problems can shut your engine down forever without much hassle.
Following are a few time intervals for GMC maintenance.
Change engine oil & air filter in 10,000 miles or 6 months
Fuel filter replacement in 15,000 miles for 2001-2010 models and 22,500 miles for 2011-2021 models.
Flush and change engine coolant in 150,000 miles/10 years
Transmission fluid & filter change in 45,000 miles
Bottom Line
In times of engine trouble, GMC used engines for sale are a great buy, but only if you buy a good engine. In the case of the 6.6L Duramax V8 engine, you can stay confident when buying. Its specifications and features confirm can that Duramax V8 is a good engine that can power your GMC truck for many more years to come without giving you any problems.