Factory 8.1L improvements, where are they?

Supercop8100 · May 11, 2006

What are everyones opinions on why GM isnt seriously improving the 8.1L? The Duramax is being improved upon it seems like everyday. I just dont know why they arent coming out with a new big block for us, or just make the current one better. DOD, displacement on demand, would be a great start as well as upping the horsepower to around 400-450, torque to 600-700. Its very possible and very feasible. I know I would definately buy a big block from the factory with those numbers. DOD would make it driveable.

What do you honkies think?

FlaMan · May 12, 2006

I own a 2002 2500HD with the 8.1/Allison and I have heard, (I think on this forum) that the breakdown for sales in a given year for the 2500 Silverado/GMC series is as follows.

50% sold have the Duramax Diesel

45% have the base engine, (6.0 ltr)

5% have the 8.1 gas

If these figures are correct, then I would assume it's a matter of economics for GM. They are in bigtime trouble as we know and gas goes up daily so really, if you were them, would you be wasting your time? I'd love to know the true answer. I understand that the boat companies buy the 8.1 from GM as fast as they can make them, so obviously they are a great motor as we know. Also, many RVs have these motors as I see them on the showroom floors of the RV companies. (I have a 5th wheel so I browse a lot when I am there). Any other thoughts out there?

Burbman · May 12, 2006

You're on the money, FlaMan...GM's big market for the 8.1 is marine and RV chassis. They also have a big industrila business with the 8.1 powering generators, etc.

It seems that people buy light duty (1500, 2500, 3500) trucks to either tow or haul. People towing regularly get the D-Max for the power. If only hauling in the bed up to the GVWR, the 6.0 will move the load just fine. Very few 8.1's out there. I heard it won't be an option for the Sub any longer due to very low demand.

lord-dogbert · May 13, 2006

This will change with the new EPA standards for diesel in 2007. The dmax will cost another 4k and diesel will go up another 10%. There was an article in the San Diego Union Tribune about this. I think links are floating around here and other forums.