Duramax Engines

SSSilverado23 · August 1, 2012

Im looking at buying a Duramax diesel truck either 2500 or 3500. I was wondering whats a good LOW mile range for those. I know that they last a whole lot longer then gas engines. Im in the $25000 rang and am only finding stuff with 150,000 miles on it or so. Anyways any tips and stuff to look for would be appreciated along with what is considered low mileage on a diesel truck! I appreciate the help.

KMGZ400 · August 1, 2012

if your looking for a diesel, find one that has never had a programmer and isnt beat up. most people who have diesels tow heavy or drive hard so a lot of them tend to get pretty beat.

and yeah, duramaxes are expensive so your gonna have to fork up some cash for a decent one.\

and idk where you live but there are 01-06 d-maxes with around 50-70k miles going for under 20 around me.

SSSilverado23 · August 1, 2012

if your looking for a diesel, find one that has never had a programmer and isnt beat up. most people who have diesels tow heavy or drive hard so a lot of them tend to get pretty beat.

and yeah, duramaxes are expensive so your gonna have to fork up some cash for a decent one.\

and idk where you live but there are 01-06 d-maxes with around 50-70k miles going for under 20 around me.

I live in WA. Ya they are more expensive then that here for sure. Still what is considered low miles on a duramax? thanks!

kstruckcountry · August 1, 2012

For me, any vehicle with under 100k is low, others wouldn't touch anything that wasn't fresh off the showroom floor. Depends on who you are.

Chris · August 1, 2012

For a diesel 100k is just broken in. 300k left in it easy

SSSilverado23 · August 1, 2012

For me, any vehicle with under 100k is low, others wouldn't touch anything that wasn't fresh off the showroom floor. Depends on who you are.

Im the same way. Thats why i ask. Ive always boughten vehicles with under 50k on them. But i have been told 100-150k is just broke in on the Diesels.

For a diesel 100k is just broken in. 300k left in it easy

Ok cool. Thanks for the info.

KMGZ400 · August 1, 2012

its really just all preference about how many miles your comfy with. duramaxes are great reliable engines but the body is just the same as any old 2500, it has brakes, front end parts, they can rust, they have parts that can break and wear out just like a gas truck.

SWDoodle · August 2, 2012

Im looking at buying a Duramax diesel truck either 2500 or 3500. I was wondering whats a good LOW mile range for those. I know that they last a whole lot longer then gas engines. Im in the $25000 rang and am only finding stuff with 150,000 miles on it or so. Anyways any tips and stuff to look for would be appreciated along with what is considered low mileage on a diesel truck! I appreciate the help.

Need a little more information on what you need a HD for. If it is light-medium towing a 6.0 will be more than adequate. If you are planning on doing a lot of towing or heavy towing the Duramax will suite you're needs better. As far as the engine life, the Duramax should last longer, but will be more expensive to maintain. For example, if the injectors or the Allision shoots craps, those are some big ticket items. Something to think about on a higher mileage diesel. Likewise, there is alot more to the pickup than the engine/transmission. Getting a higher mileage duramax you may need new brakes, ball joints, tie-rods, uv joints, etc. You may find a lower mileage gasser for the same price as the Duramax. And please don't make the mistake of justifying the diesel because of mileage. That is totally bunk on these newer emmsion restricted diesels. You can remove all that stuff and get some fair mileage, but my LMM is only about 2-3 mpg better average than my previous 6.0. Now the LMM pulls twice what the gasser did, but I tend to pull really heavy at times (like above 25K GCVW). It would be hard to go back to gas, but if I didn't need the capability I would go to a 1500 VMax for the ride. An HD pickup rides pretty crappy. I have 97K on my 08 and have had few issues. It's been pretty bullet-proof for a farm/ranch pickup. Just had it in the shop to inspect stuff before it goes out of warranty and the techs said drivetrain, suspension, brakes still looked good. Just had them change the differential and transfer case fluid and that was COSTLY! Holy cow wish I had done that myself. Almost $400! Ridiculous.

SSSilverado23 · August 2, 2012

Im looking at buying a Duramax diesel truck either 2500 or 3500. I was wondering whats a good LOW mile range for those. I know that they last a whole lot longer then gas engines. Im in the $25000 rang and am only finding stuff with 150,000 miles on it or so. Anyways any tips and stuff to look for would be appreciated along with what is considered low mileage on a diesel truck! I appreciate the help.

Need a little more information on what you need a HD for. If it is light-medium towing a 6.0 will be more than adequate. If you are planning on doing a lot of towing or heavy towing the Duramax will suite you're needs better. As far as the engine life, the Duramax should last longer, but will be more expensive to maintain. For example, if the injectors or the Allision shoots craps, those are some big ticket items. Something to think about on a higher mileage diesel. Likewise, there is alot more to the pickup than the engine/transmission. Getting a higher mileage duramax you may need new brakes, ball joints, tie-rods, uv joints, etc. You may find a lower mileage gasser for the same price as the Duramax. And please don't make the mistake of justifying the diesel because of mileage. That is totally bunk on these newer emmsion restricted diesels. You can remove all that stuff and get some fair mileage, but my LMM is only about 2-3 mpg better average than my previous 6.0. Now the LMM pulls twice what the gasser did, but I tend to pull really heavy at times (like above 25K GCVW). It would be hard to go back to gas, but if I didn't need the capability I would go to a 1500 VMax for the ride. An HD pickup rides pretty crappy. I have 97K on my 08 and have had few issues. It's been pretty bullet-proof for a farm/ranch pickup. Just had it in the shop to inspect stuff before it goes out of warranty and the techs said drivetrain, suspension, brakes still looked good. Just had them change the differential and transfer case fluid and that was COSTLY! Holy cow wish I had done that myself. Almost $400! Ridiculous.

I dont need the capablility. I just like them. I pull pretty light. Maybe i should just stick with me 1500 with the 5.3 in it. Im pulling about 3000lbs at a time but for long distances like 8-10 hour drives one way. I only pull about 5 times a year as well so maybe an HD would be the wrong way to go since its my DD as well. Thanks for the info!

Mckenzie · August 2, 2012

25K should get you a 4x4 LBZ with 100,000ish miles or less on it, whats your area and ill look for ya?

SWDoodle · August 3, 2012

Im looking at buying a Duramax diesel truck either 2500 or 3500. I was wondering whats a good LOW mile range for those. I know that they last a whole lot longer then gas engines. Im in the $25000 rang and am only finding stuff with 150,000 miles on it or so. Anyways any tips and stuff to look for would be appreciated along with what is considered low mileage on a diesel truck! I appreciate the help.

Need a little more information on what you need a HD for. If it is light-medium towing a 6.0 will be more than adequate. If you are planning on doing a lot of towing or heavy towing the Duramax will suite you're needs better. As far as the engine life, the Duramax should last longer, but will be more expensive to maintain. For example, if the injectors or the Allision shoots craps, those are some big ticket items. Something to think about on a higher mileage diesel. Likewise, there is alot more to the pickup than the engine/transmission. Getting a higher mileage duramax you may need new brakes, ball joints, tie-rods, uv joints, etc. You may find a lower mileage gasser for the same price as the Duramax. And please don't make the mistake of justifying the diesel because of mileage. That is totally bunk on these newer emmsion restricted diesels. You can remove all that stuff and get some fair mileage, but my LMM is only about 2-3 mpg better average than my previous 6.0. Now the LMM pulls twice what the gasser did, but I tend to pull really heavy at times (like above 25K GCVW). It would be hard to go back to gas, but if I didn't need the capability I would go to a 1500 VMax for the ride. An HD pickup rides pretty crappy. I have 97K on my 08 and have had few issues. It's been pretty bullet-proof for a farm/ranch pickup. Just had it in the shop to inspect stuff before it goes out of warranty and the techs said drivetrain, suspension, brakes still looked good. Just had them change the differential and transfer case fluid and that was COSTLY! Holy cow wish I had done that myself. Almost $400! Ridiculous.

I dont need the capablility. I just like them. I pull pretty light. Maybe i should just stick with me 1500 with the 5.3 in it. Im pulling about 3000lbs at a time but for long distances like 8-10 hour drives one way. I only pull about 5 times a year as well so maybe an HD would be the wrong way to go since its my DD as well. Thanks for the info!

I know a lot of people have diesels that have no real need for them but just like the power. That's cool and to each his own. But it sounds like money is an issue, so I'd go with either a gasser HD with lower miles or a 1500 with the 6.2 VMax. You should be able to get into a new body styled 6.0 HD for around 25K with well below 100K. The 6.0 gets a bum rap for poor mileage/power from some, but it's actually a very stout engine. With my old 6.0 the the 4L80E 4-speed I pulled loads in the 20-25K GCVW several times. I usually just left it in direct 3rd gear running around 3100 rpm @ 60 ish. I live in Western Kansas where it's flat and few people so i could get away with it. Living in hilly areas or heavy traffic, no way I would have done something like that though for numerous reasons. One thing about that 05 was not matter how hard I pushed it, it never overheated. The engine temp on the duramax will start creeping up on hot days when I'm pulling a good sized load. There is a reason they have been putting the 6.0 in the HD platform since 1999. It's a strong reliable engine. Mileage isn't as bad as people think. Again it was only about 2-3 mpg worse (average mileage) than my current LMM. It was usually right at 12-12.5 whereas the diesel is 14-15ish depending on the regen cycle. I track this stuff pretty close. Strictly highway the gasser was 13.5-15 and the diesel is 15.5-17.5ish. All stock with 265's. Hope this helps.

SSSilverado23 · August 4, 2012

25K should get you a 4x4 LBZ with 100,000ish miles or less on it, whats your area and ill look for ya?

Spokane WA is where im from

SSSilverado23 · August 4, 2012

Im looking at buying a Duramax diesel truck either 2500 or 3500. I was wondering whats a good LOW mile range for those. I know that they last a whole lot longer then gas engines. Im in the $25000 rang and am only finding stuff with 150,000 miles on it or so. Anyways any tips and stuff to look for would be appreciated along with what is considered low mileage on a diesel truck! I appreciate the help.

Need a little more information on what you need a HD for. If it is light-medium towing a 6.0 will be more than adequate. If you are planning on doing a lot of towing or heavy towing the Duramax will suite you're needs better. As far as the engine life, the Duramax should last longer, but will be more expensive to maintain. For example, if the injectors or the Allision shoots craps, those are some big ticket items. Something to think about on a higher mileage diesel. Likewise, there is alot more to the pickup than the engine/transmission. Getting a higher mileage duramax you may need new brakes, ball joints, tie-rods, uv joints, etc. You may find a lower mileage gasser for the same price as the Duramax. And please don't make the mistake of justifying the diesel because of mileage. That is totally bunk on these newer emmsion restricted diesels. You can remove all that stuff and get some fair mileage, but my LMM is only about 2-3 mpg better average than my previous 6.0. Now the LMM pulls twice what the gasser did, but I tend to pull really heavy at times (like above 25K GCVW). It would be hard to go back to gas, but if I didn't need the capability I would go to a 1500 VMax for the ride. An HD pickup rides pretty crappy. I have 97K on my 08 and have had few issues. It's been pretty bullet-proof for a farm/ranch pickup. Just had it in the shop to inspect stuff before it goes out of warranty and the techs said drivetrain, suspension, brakes still looked good. Just had them change the differential and transfer case fluid and that was COSTLY! Holy cow wish I had done that myself. Almost $400! Ridiculous.

I dont need the capablility. I just like them. I pull pretty light. Maybe i should just stick with me 1500 with the 5.3 in it. Im pulling about 3000lbs at a time but for long distances like 8-10 hour drives one way. I only pull about 5 times a year as well so maybe an HD would be the wrong way to go since its my DD as well. Thanks for the info!

I know a lot of people have diesels that have no real need for them but just like the power. That's cool and to each his own. But it sounds like money is an issue, so I'd go with either a gasser HD with lower miles or a 1500 with the 6.2 VMax. You should be able to get into a new body styled 6.0 HD for around 25K with well below 100K. The 6.0 gets a bum rap for poor mileage/power from some, but it's actually a very stout engine. With my old 6.0 the the 4L80E 4-speed I pulled loads in the 20-25K GCVW several times. I usually just left it in direct 3rd gear running around 3100 rpm @ 60 ish. I live in Western Kansas where it's flat and few people so i could get away with it. Living in hilly areas or heavy traffic, no way I would have done something like that though for numerous reasons. One thing about that 05 was not matter how hard I pushed it, it never overheated. The engine temp on the duramax will start creeping up on hot days when I'm pulling a good sized load. There is a reason they have been putting the 6.0 in the HD platform since 1999. It's a strong reliable engine. Mileage isn't as bad as people think. Again it was only about 2-3 mpg worse (average mileage) than my current LMM. It was usually right at 12-12.5 whereas the diesel is 14-15ish depending on the regen cycle. I track this stuff pretty close. Strictly highway the gasser was 13.5-15 and the diesel is 15.5-17.5ish. All stock with 265's. Hope this helps.

Thanks for all that info. I appreciate it! Starting to lean toward keeping my 1500 or going with a 6.0 now. Dont really need a diesel. Thanks again!

SWDoodle · August 4, 2012

Im looking at buying a Duramax diesel truck either 2500 or 3500. I was wondering whats a good LOW mile range for those. I know that they last a whole lot longer then gas engines. Im in the $25000 rang and am only finding stuff with 150,000 miles on it or so. Anyways any tips and stuff to look for would be appreciated along with what is considered low mileage on a diesel truck! I appreciate the help.

Need a little more information on what you need a HD for. If it is light-medium towing a 6.0 will be more than adequate. If you are planning on doing a lot of towing or heavy towing the Duramax will suite you're needs better. As far as the engine life, the Duramax should last longer, but will be more expensive to maintain. For example, if the injectors or the Allision shoots craps, those are some big ticket items. Something to think about on a higher mileage diesel. Likewise, there is alot more to the pickup than the engine/transmission. Getting a higher mileage duramax you may need new brakes, ball joints, tie-rods, uv joints, etc. You may find a lower mileage gasser for the same price as the Duramax. And please don't make the mistake of justifying the diesel because of mileage. That is totally bunk on these newer emmsion restricted diesels. You can remove all that stuff and get some fair mileage, but my LMM is only about 2-3 mpg better average than my previous 6.0. Now the LMM pulls twice what the gasser did, but I tend to pull really heavy at times (like above 25K GCVW). It would be hard to go back to gas, but if I didn't need the capability I would go to a 1500 VMax for the ride. An HD pickup rides pretty crappy. I have 97K on my 08 and have had few issues. It's been pretty bullet-proof for a farm/ranch pickup. Just had it in the shop to inspect stuff before it goes out of warranty and the techs said drivetrain, suspension, brakes still looked good. Just had them change the differential and transfer case fluid and that was COSTLY! Holy cow wish I had done that myself. Almost $400! Ridiculous.

I dont need the capablility. I just like them. I pull pretty light. Maybe i should just stick with me 1500 with the 5.3 in it. Im pulling about 3000lbs at a time but for long distances like 8-10 hour drives one way. I only pull about 5 times a year as well so maybe an HD would be the wrong way to go since its my DD as well. Thanks for the info!

I know a lot of people have diesels that have no real need for them but just like the power. That's cool and to each his own. But it sounds like money is an issue, so I'd go with either a gasser HD with lower miles or a 1500 with the 6.2 VMax. You should be able to get into a new body styled 6.0 HD for around 25K with well below 100K. The 6.0 gets a bum rap for poor mileage/power from some, but it's actually a very stout engine. With my old 6.0 the the 4L80E 4-speed I pulled loads in the 20-25K GCVW several times. I usually just left it in direct 3rd gear running around 3100 rpm @ 60 ish. I live in Western Kansas where it's flat and few people so i could get away with it. Living in hilly areas or heavy traffic, no way I would have done something like that though for numerous reasons. One thing about that 05 was not matter how hard I pushed it, it never overheated. The engine temp on the duramax will start creeping up on hot days when I'm pulling a good sized load. There is a reason they have been putting the 6.0 in the HD platform since 1999. It's a strong reliable engine. Mileage isn't as bad as people think. Again it was only about 2-3 mpg worse (average mileage) than my current LMM. It was usually right at 12-12.5 whereas the diesel is 14-15ish depending on the regen cycle. I track this stuff pretty close. Strictly highway the gasser was 13.5-15 and the diesel is 15.5-17.5ish. All stock with 265's. Hope this helps.

Thanks for all that info. I appreciate it! Starting to lean toward keeping my 1500 or going with a 6.0 now. Dont really need a diesel. Thanks again!

No problem. To make you waffle even more, it would be hard for me to go back to a gasser now that I've I got a Duramax. They just have sick power. Crazy that you can pull 10-15,000 lbs in sixth gear running about 1600 rpm. Completely different animal than the gasser. I've always thought they should have kept the old big block and had an 8-speed transmission, like a four speed with a high low splitter or something like that. Then you would have the torque to pull the pickup along at low rpm and get decent mileage. But then again big block and mileage is kind of an oxymoron. Good luck with you're decision.

Ranger · August 4, 2012

I'd definitely stick with a gasser for how little you tow/haul...I only got a Duramax because I am constantly moving materials and equipment, and my 5.3 would get very crappy gas mileage while towing. And I haul pretty heavy as well, have had 3k+ lbs in the bed before.

Worse case find a 2500HD with a 8.1, those are some badass motors. I almost wish they still put them in the "light duty trucks".