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Need opinions on used Duramax's

rdalley

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rdalley Enthusiast

rdalley

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Hi guys,

I am considering trading my Silverado, 2002 5.3l with 80,000 miles for a used Duramax. If I did, it would probably be over 100,000 miles and most likely a 2002, 03 or 04. What experiences have you all had with the Duramax? What year is the best? What problems should I expect or look out for. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each year? Is 100,000 to 150,000 miles too many if I can get a one owner truck? Please give me any input or opinions you have.

Truckman031 Senior Enthusiast

Truckman031

Posted
Posted

The Duramax is a great engine. The only widespread problems are injectors, but they are warrantied for 200,000 miles. Why do you want to get the diesel? Your looking at trading for a truck will almost double the miles. IMO, I'd stick with what you have unless you need the diesel. My concerns would be 1. most diesels are built to tow/haul and 150,000 towing miles is alot, and 2. the widespread use of chips. Chips don't hurt the engine, but people tend to drive the truck harder once they get 150 more hp. Basically it's up to you. The Duramax has very few problems, and is a good motor.

rdalley Enthusiast

rdalley

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Thanks for the input. The reason I am considering it is because I need to start towing more than when I bought my truck 4 years ago. Particularly a fifth wheel trailer.

 

Ayone else have an opinion?

Machine Enthusiast

Machine

Posted
Posted

If you do this, go with a 2003 LB7 Duramax. It is a great engine - more so, I believe than the LLY which replaced the LB7 in 2004.5

DSengineer Enthusiast

DSengineer

Posted
Posted
Yeah, the LB7 will provide plenty of power and good gas mileage.  The LLY has more power but doesn't get near the mileage.

 

 

 

 

The LLY may be rated higher from the factory but you wouldn't know it driving the two back to back. Jump in a new LBZ and you will feel the difference. For me I could not tell any difference between the LB7 and LLY's I have driven.

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