The Ultimate Duramax Engine Guide (And Why It's The Best)

Today we're going to go on a journey and look at every Duramax engine that GM has built, from the LB7 all the way up to L5P. We're going to look at what makes each engine special, interesting, the common problems, and why GM had to continue iterating the Duramax line with new engines every few years.
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Credit:
Brandon Jansen - • 2012 Lifted Ram 3500 6...
Loud 'N' Proud - • HOW MUCH ABUSE CAN THI...
The Fast Lane Truck - • 2018 Ford F-250 Diesel...
Nicolas Terris - • 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlas...
Midwest Mechanics - • 6.2 diesel bullshitery
Epic Adventures Offroad - • LB7 Duramax Engine Reb...
Epic Adventures Offroad - • LB7 Duramax Engine Reb...
Truck Master - • We Rebuilt My Duramax ...
TopLineRacer - • Tearing Down the LLY D...
ParamountAutozone - • VTG Turbocharger Anima...
fastthings - • Fastthings 6.6 Duramax...
Rubberducky Diesel - • LBZ Duramax Engine is ...
Brennen McGuire - • Fully Deleted LMM Dura...
POWERNATION - • Tearing Down a Duramax...
POWERNATION - • Installing The 6.6L LM...
David Schmidt - • Lml Duramax Tear Down ...
Banks Power - • Banks strips the Duram...
Banks Power - • 2020 DURAMAX L5P Engin...

[@randyhymas9013]

I have a 2500HD with the LBZ. This is the only diesel pickup I have ever owned, and I bought it new in 2007. It is bone stock, with about 340,000 miles on it. I have been very happy with it. No major issues, and not many minor ones. Still runs and tows great. Still gets good mileage, and doesn't burn any oil.

[@lewisgeer1994]

I am kinda thinking of getting an LBZ truck. What kind of mileage does you generally get on the highway without towing?

[@yzrippin]

@Lewis Geer I think you'd find yourself much happier and better off doing a Dodge delete on a Cummins and then dropping it into a ford.

[@lewisgeer1994]

@@yzrippin I’d rather stick with the GMT800 platform largely in part due to the front seats that i find are fantastic for my back. So if anything i would do a Duramax delete with a Cummins upgrade. Lol

[@travisstankowski7495]

Well thats a fluke. You will have problems so good luck.

[@Cbow406]

Nice. Ever any egr issues? Still running the original injectors. I bought one 3 years ago. It only has 120k on it. Got it at 93k. Crew cab fully loaded, absolutely love it

[@emmettjohnson8220]

I have a 2001 Crew Cab long bed. Bought in 2007 with 145,000 on it, injectors were done at 120,000. Truck was getting 19-20 MPG when I bought it. Now has about 340,000, needs injectors, but still getting 16-17 MPG as my daily ride. No emisson crap, bone stock. My goal is half a million. LUV IT!

[@yomomma3570]

Have it walnut blasted

[@veleriphon]

Banks used the L5P as the basis for his supercharged diesel for Lokjaw, and a research project called Killing a Duramax. The stock crankshaft and head bolts handle 1000 horsepower easily.

[@mikethetoolman8776]

awesome series must watch!!

[@sandasturner9529]

Yeah that engine model is the most reliable!

[@bat__bat]

Yep banks is a Duramax fuckboi but for good reason. He built hundreds of those modified l5p for military. Imagine doing burnouts in a 50 ton armored personnel carrier straight into the battle zone, whistlin those turbos like a Boeing taking off. Enemy fire is automatically returned fire from computerized robot 50 mil guns on the truck.

[@bat__bat]

Yep. Banks proved that the Duramax is an absolute monster. Stock internals are capable of literally twice their advertised power. That really exemplifies the 'Dura' part of the name. No reason why a new L5P can't go a million miles before overhaul when left stock.

[@bobbuilder5902]

​@@bat__bat if you delete it first

[@uzaiyaro]

After watching a few other videos, it’s nice to hear that GM does seem to care about reliability and each iteration tries to improve on the last. Some stumbling blocks here and there, but they are eventually fixed. Great stuff.

[@mikethetoolman8776]

epa and the fed govt is the main issues with all these engines

[@mikethetoolman8776]

@Indians Auto isuzu/GM designed now owned by GM and made in Dayton

[@mikethetoolman8776]

@Indians Auto GM and isuzu designed this motor from the start. GM owned most of isuzu when this happened also? what's your point????

[@kgb5351]

@Indians Auto Moon Moon never said in his comment that the Duramax is built by GM.

[@craigcampbell8560]

Now if Ford could only start to care about reliability. Then again, they don't need to since they have legions of fools who will keep buying them no matter how crappy they make them.

[@dianawalker9320]

Awesome video , the Duramax is in my opinion the best of the main 3 US manufacturers . As a mechanic of 15years I have seen more problems with cummins and power strokes than Duramax , and not by a little bit but by a factor of 10.

[@fuckjewtube69]

Ha. Just wait till you see what GM has coming down the pipeline. Camshaft failures in their new diesels that require 50 hours labour to replace lmfao.

[@danman5857]

@@fuckjewtube69 , 50 hours of labour?

[@fuckjewtube69]

@@danman5857 Yes when it came out the book time from GM was 50 hours to replace the camshaft on the newest 6.6. The camshafts fail.

[@michaelwatts9612]

I can literally say the opposite as a mechanic since 2007. I have seen issues out side the obvious 6.0, and 6.4 from ford the least, cummins the 2nd but alot of certain duramax. Still a great engine and I do have a 2013 lml I love. But I want to go back to a 6.7 powerstroke.

[@Steelviper61]

I owned 6 semi's with Cummins ISX motors and while they imo outperformed the competition they were high on the maintenance side. Very high. Constant EGR failures were a big issue and I do mean constant even with reduced idle time. I retired in 19' and I am sure the new X15 has solved some of those problems. If you have a Cummins you better have deep pockets after the warranty is what my experience has taught me. Now I own a 2020 GMC AT4 with the L5P pulling my skid steer and implements and I love it. Very strong motor all stock no issues so far and it has 98000 miles on it.

[@flyinbrianz22]

I was so impressed with the Duramax that I ordered one in November of 2000. It arrived in May of 2001. I still have the truck today and wouldn't trade it for anything. The biggest issue with the LB7 was the injectors due to poor fuel filters. I replaced my stock fuel filter with the Cat fuel filter. Best upgrade ever!!

[@rooster72886]

Put a lift pump in and really watch the performance and cat filters work I have a 2003 lb7 deleted straight piped 4 inch and a 100 gph fass lift pump your fuel system injectors and cp3 life will be extended but that's just my opinion

[@zachtagge4661]

I have both LBZ and L5P. And they are both great in their own aspect.

[@rodriguezandres54]

U think the l5p would be reliable if left stock???

[@rock-uu7qr]

@@rodriguezandres54 uh yes?

[@bcdieselsofficial]

@@rodriguezandres54 as in with the emissions intact? No, not by a long shot.

[@chrisn5079]

Emissions systems kill diesel engines quicker than any human can.

[@ChuckBeefOG]

@@bcdieselsofficialI drive mine several hundred kilometers into the wilderness with no amenities without worrying much. The emissions systems are annoying but more reliable today than they were in the early days 2012-2015.

[@detroitdiesel-vu3ig]

My first diesel was a 6.2 Detroit and I now run a 98 506 block 6.5 Detroit. I've had nothing but good luck with them thus far

[@th4bl4ckm4n]

They both suck in the HMMWV as far as reliability goes without having to replace injector pumps or fuel pumps. But it's the army so I can't blame the engines

[@detroitdiesel-vu3ig]

@@th4bl4ckm4n biggest problem I encountered with HMMWVs were the charging systems giving out. Oh and the body mounts turning to dust at JRTC, effectively deadlining all of them lol

[@pob_car]

6.5s are really good if you fix a couple issues.

[@kennethryan8112]

@@th4bl4ckm4n thats because jp8 that military uses isnt diesel and doesnt have the lubrication of diesel so it kills pumps

[@Ratkill9000]

Long as that fuel module is remotely placed, should never have an issue.

[@jonathangreeley8604]

Having driven every version of the duramax except the LML, I would say that if it's my money to buy and maintain, I would just as soon have an LBZ. I can work on it, it's very reliable, any problems I might have are well known, etc. If I was suddenly given a truck allowance from work, I would have an L5P, for sure! More hp/ torque, better brakes, better frame, integrated trailer brake, basically more of everything.

[@fierce1894]

we have a 2011 gmc denali 2500hd with an lml, it's extremely reliable but it also has the emissions delete so no more def system or anything. the def system was the main issue in those and they went out the most, so the previous owner took it out. with that emissions delete we get an average of 20mpg with a fair boost of horsepower

[@SimplexSM]

Have you driven an L5D?

[@joshuaquilliam2887]

The LBZ is no doubt a great platform, good luck finding one that isn't clapped out though. Two year window is pretty small, plus I always hated that GM didn't box in the frame of a 3/4 ton truck with the power these things make. I can flex the frame on my 3rd gen Cummins when I pull, I can't imagine 1k hp with that C frame.

[@Dustrunnersauto]

Side note: All LB7s are 300hp. I had referenced DieselHub.com for the HP info and they had it wrong, I should've double checked! If you guys enjoyed the video, please SMASH THAT LIKE BUTTON. It helps the channel out a huge amount and helps KZbin put the video in front of more people. Thanks for watching 😬

[@borla4491]

Whenever you get time, do a video of a the 6.2/6.5 Detroit Diesel. And the Oldsmobile 350 Diesel.

[@borla4491]

*clicked" liked " button by the way*

[@Dustrunnersauto]

6.2/6.5 engines will happen sometime soon, as well as the old 2 stroke diesels!

[@Old_Tyme_Racing]

The 2022 6.6L duramax only rate at 391 hp according to the manufacture not the 445hp you referenced in your video when I was ordering my 2022 GMC Sierra 2500.

[@garysarratt1]

@@Old_Tyme_Racing Read it again

[@susanshelton8004]

I have the 04 LB7 with 180K on it to date. One set of injectors put on it. I also added a Air Dog lift pump on it and I am really pleased with this truck. I runs perfect and I get right at 20mpg with it. This is my first diesel truck I’ve owned. Towing a 29’ travel trailer with it with no issues. I have a programmer for it but do not use it very much.

[@vacayooper4728]

I have a 2003 LB7, a 2005 LLY, and a 2006 LBZ. The video is right on. All the engines are easy to work on, very familiar with these engines and trucks. I do all the maintenance and repair work. Add a lift pump, an oil bypass system and fix minor issues and they are great.

[@Zoofactory]

I purchased my first diesel with little to knowledge of the engines. I’m sleeping a little better knowing the mechanic that inspected it said “if I don’t buy this 01’ LB7 in great condition with new injectors, someone will - today” There were 2 guys in line at the dealer waiting to buy it when I came back from the test drive. So far, it’s pulling the toy hauler wonderfully! Thx fir the video, Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸

[@gofastorgohome1000]

I’ve had a 14 LML for 6 years. It’s been a great motor. Lots of power, great mileage. I’ve installed a FASS system, upgraded Down pipe, intake, among other things…. Rough estimate on power is around 500 hp mark. I’ve worked on all except the L5P, and the LLY to present is the easiest motors to work on

[@The_WK]

Newbie here. What is a FASS system?

[@marocho266]

If I'm not wrong, he is referring to the fass lift pump kit, used to help mitigate the fuel delivery to the CP4 pump and help extend its life.

[@heldtheflashlightfordad6728]

LMM is what I got. It's been a damn good truck with plenty of power, but I wouldn't shy away from any of the duramax years. None of them are "bad" engines. You shouldn't be tuning your truck into self destruction mode anyway. Nice little tow tune and ditch the dpf, good to go.

[@davidschauers]

Got a 2012 LML with no DEF and a nice tow tune.... loving it.

[@heldtheflashlightfordad6728]

@Dobbies Revenge Poor injector design was really the only flaw. I would buy one as long as a reputable diesel mechanic installed new Injectors. Key word REPUTABLE

[@lomfmur]

@Dobbies Revenge do the injectors and it's a great engine. People say it's 10x worse than it is. Same with the LML, it's a terrific engine, the CP4 just lets it down but RAM used em and now Ford does so yknow...

[@johnserrano9689]

A little known trick for noticeable power gains cleaner running a bit of city boy/ republican lie/rape of the working class tears boost your diesel power

[@heldtheflashlightfordad6728]

@@johnserrano9689 I've heard your Estrogen filled Liberal tears work well, but I've seen the best gains running Bald Eagle Piss.

[@klikliks_service]

The L5P is my favorite duramax. They moved the fuel filter out of the fender area. They got rid of Bosch. Smartest moves they could've done.

[@bat__bat]

I'm too broke to have a new truck. I think it would be nice to put an L5P in a 2002 truck swap out the LB7. Then u could legally delete the L5P and even Cali can fuck off. L5P gen2 hitting the assembly line now going into 2023.

[@bhswarrior94]

@@bat__bat How do you suppose you could legally delete an L5P just cause it's in an 800? 🤣🤣🤣

[@bat__bat]

@@bhswarrior94 the EPA stuff goes by VIN far as I know. The 2002 gt800 had zero emissions. They don't require old trucks to retrofit, they're grandfathered in. So yeah, why wouldn't that work? You think those bozos know the difference between a lb7 and L5P both deleted under a hood where it's supposed to be deleted?

[@bhswarrior94]

@@bat__bat Numbers wouldn't match between truck and engine nice try and just from an eye check there are massive differences between the LB7 and L5P not to mention sound

[@jaketrat3725]

@@bat__batthey changed the l5p?

[@McLacBlack]

Great vid! Spot on (except the LB7 hit the market at 300 hp)! Best engines are the LBZ & L5P. I absolutely LOVED my LBZ! Miss that truck!

[@THEFERMANATOR]

Yep, ALL LB7's were 300HP. It was the updated 2000 6.5l that was supposed to be 235hp, but GM never released them because the LB7 was on the horizon.

[@bat__bat]

Great vid, lots of great info and history. I had a 02 lb7 and loved it. I used it to haul for work, used 4x4 a lot in muddy, bad terrain in landfills. It handled everything like butter. Sounded so great also! I miss that truck had to sell it. Can't wait to get another one in the future

[@andrewbennett3007]

Good video. A couple correction points. The DEF is not injected before the DPF, it is injected post DPF into the SCR. It is used to break down NOX into N2 and Water. It has nothing to do with hydrocarbons or soot removal (that is the DPF). GM was really smart to add the 9th injector instead of using post injection like other post emission diesel engines. Also: EGR is primarily used to reduce NOX rather than reburning hydrocarbons in diesels. The way it achieves this is by reducing the combustion temperatures. GM was also pretty clever on the 3L duramax by using low pressure EGR and taking the stream downstream of the DPF/SCR. It works more effectively this way but also doesn't recycle soot into the intakes. They have pretty much resolved all of the issues that modern emission systems caused. -A cummins guy.

[@timothygrell4398]

I have owned a 02(LB7) and put on 270,000 mile and replaced injectors 5 times. Bought a 06 LBZ and put on 370000 mile and still going and loved it with only a few small issues(TCM). Gave this truck to my son and now own a 2020 LP5 and really like that truck. Love my chevys

[@bcdieselsofficial]

Unfortunate that you had the injector issues. My 04 with an 01 drivetrain has only had one set of injectors done at 170k miles. Currently at 238000 miles and still going strong!

[@jackwhitcher3797]

I daily drive an 07 LBZ. Fantastic truck with a quarter million on the OD. I’m not very nice to it and I regularly give the throttle some tough love, and it has held up fantastic. Not a single peep or complaint from the motor itself. Not to mention while I’m doing all this fun driving, I’m averaging about 14mpg!

[@davecamilleri9411]

FYI, 6.2 diesels that came out in 1982 had two power ratings, 130 hp in the light duty engine with egr and 145 hp in the heavy duty engine without egr. Power levels continued to rise to 155 hp in hd engines by 1984.

[@connorbunch3577]

Just curious... I have a 1983 K30 dually that originally had a 6.2 liter diesel... (But now has a swapped 454 thanks to a previous owner.) Do you believe that would have been a non-egr motor?

[@605_ACE]

You guys are a bunch of idiots they didn’t starts putting egrs on pickups until late 2003 for ford with the 6.0 ps and I think 2006 maybe on the 6.7 cummins and sometime around there for the duramax

[@605_ACE]

The idis did not have a egr

[@myk1_sp]

I believe it wouldn't have had EGR as the half-ton Chevys with the 6.2 (and possibly 6.5) had EGR.

[@southfork67]

I had a 1985 High Sierra 3500 that had been factory ordered with the high output version of the 6.2. I bought it used in 1991. Before that I had a poor opinion of the 6.2 and the 5.9 Cummins was just being released in the Dodge and several friends bought them. I was allowed to take the 3500 home for the weekend to try it out and I was amazed at how much power it had compared to other 6.2’s. I bought it and had a straight dual exhaust installed with a crossover pipe right behind the transfer case. That was one sweet sound and it had a distinct loud cackle at mid RPM’s. It pulled right with the 5.9 Cummins until high gear where it couldn’t quite run with them. (Auto trans) At the time I was told by a dealer tech that they referred to my engine as the 6.2J and they were special order Good truck. I traded to a new ‘93 Dodge Cummins in 1994 and drive it for 17 years and 340k miles. Never had a single repair on that engine other than turbo and injector upgrades which were huge back then, and regular valve adjustments. Next was my current ‘09 D-Max that was deleted and and old school tuned early on. It’s a towing monster and now at $200k miles. Had its share of incremental repairs of late like thermostats, water pump, glow plugs, fuel lines, etc. but I still love it.

[@DrunkinBandit]

My father and I both bought l5p’s mine is an 18 and his is a 19. I used mine for a hotshot rig and his is a daily driver. I’ve had a ton of problems with injectors, 3 or 4 needing to be replaced and a lot of injector harness issues. All of my problems happened after putting 100k miles on the truck. The last straw for me was the one of the heads cracking between the injector and coolant passage, at around 265k miles. My dads had to have 2 injectors replaced within the first 2500 miles. And at 27,000 miles started having valve problems, every single valve on one of the heads started leaking badly and they ended up having to replace the head on that side. I’m not convinced the L5P is better than the LML. However I did crack pistons on 2 LML motors in my 2011 hotshot truck.

[@RedDeadSpearhead]

My dad has an 18 l5p and hasn't had injector problems yet, but has had harness issues twice and plenty of def issues. Currently at 120k. He uses it as a daily and farm truck after the 03 cummins spun a bearing. All I know is that cummins is getting a P pump, a new body, and not getting an ounce of emissions or electronics on it after seeing all the problems my dad's truck has seen already.

[@montynohtyp157]

I have a 17 and when I got it new it wasn’t speed limited it would run 143mph but only problem I had was glow plugs going out and had them replaced one by one until dealer did them all harness and computer at once. Now it’s limited to 95 those bastards

[@lancedooley7558]

I have a 21 Duramax L5P. I haven't had any problems yet and at almost 1 year and a half with 13,000 miles on it. Im aout to be on my third oil change and first fuel filter change atb15,000 miles. I haven't had any major issues yet except a bad batch of tires.

[@MrStaybrown]

L5p suffering from overheating related issues with a GM transmission that Self Identifies as an Allison 1000. 🤣😁

[@joegrau5431]

Sounds like you have had nothing but problems with duramax. Why havnt you tried other brands?

[@danielyoura8428]

I have two 17 L5p , one fully deleted . Knock on would both trucks have 100k miles - no big issues at all 🔥🇺🇸 . Love the platform . Fast pickups and hauls great .

[@brandonsikes9166]

Did you have a shop do it or did you do it yourself? And what kit got used to do the delete looking to do mine but not sure who to go with. Thanks

[@ballincobalt4184]

Have a 17 deleted as well, haven’t had any issues with it either

[@ballincobalt4184]

@@brandonsikes9166got mine done at a local shop, they were able to crack the computer, everyone else wanted to swap out the computer

[@stevengawlik1282]

The LB7, i.e. the first duramax, was debuted at 300hp/520tq. Several publications usually get that wrong, and GM wanted to be the first to crack 300hp when it debuted. GM probably knew the common rail cummins was not far behind and needed that leg up.

[@ronjclm8590]

I was surprised to see 235hp on early LB7's. I guessed that perhaps they put them in cut away vans with a 4L80e transmission. The vans didn't have room for the Allison 1000. at least ... that's what I heard many years ago. I have a 2002 & 2004 LB7 that I bought new. I also had a 2001 LB7 but the truck went to the shop so often that I traded it in before it ran out of warranty (36,000 mile/ 3yr) The LB7 was not the problem.

[@jacobstrutner8232]

And in 04 it was 300/560

[@McLacBlack]

@@ronjclm8590 you're exactly correct. And that's why the 235 hp is confusing to a lot of people. It was only used in the Express and Savanna.

[@montynohtyp157]

The 8.1 had more horsepower and I think torque than the first duramax

[@duramax2079]

@@montynohtyp157 not torque

[@reminoel483]

I love the LMM both the engine and bodystyle i think its the underdog

[@asherdie]

Your explanation of the EGR is for gas motors. On a diesel it cools the combustion process to reduce NOx. It makes the diesel less efficient.

[@kevinkalivoda3442]

EGR serves the same purpose on gasoline, diesel and CNG... It lowers combustion temps to reduce NOx emissions. But I agree with you, his explanation of EGR is incorrect..

[@mixgashaulass2988]

@@kevinkalivoda3442 dude really just said “they are the same for gas an diesel…. But i agree they arnt.” 💀

[@duramax78]

I’ve owned a LBZ and a L5p, loved them both.

[@rodriguezandres54]

Which one would u say is more reliable if left stock

[@deltabravo1257]

The 350ci Olds diesel was offered in trucks for one or two model years. I think it was only the half tons. I remember seeing them. They had a very distinct sound which was different than the 6.2L.

[@theblindredneck747]

I think the 5.7 was offered in the C 10 up until 81.

[@jdfleetguy28]

We had one I believe ours was a either a 78 or 79 model C10 pickup. We also had a 5.7 diesel in a 1979 Cadillac. Diesel was a big deal back in the late 70s. Especially for us , back in those days it was especially nice for Farmers, we had huge diesel tanks of cheap ag fuel right there on our property. Ag fuel back then was only running 25-35 cents a gallon. Later on diesel got died and regulated which changed everything.

[@jdfleetguy28]

I believe the 5.7 diesel was offered in the C10 pickup from 1978-80.

[@boxerdog5979]

I have had 3 Duramax trucks i bought new a 2001 a 2011 and my current is a 2017 all bone stock. This 2017 is by far the best most reliable I have owned. I am very good on keeping up with maintenance, and it has been a great truck. I am also very happy Ford and Ram are great trucks because it keeps all three putting out better trucks for us to buy.

[@ablolazy3303]

Please make a video about the OM606. It´s the diesel equivalent of the 2JZ. It can produce with stock Internals and a mechanical injectionpump 600HP. Besides it sounds awesome.

[@duramax2079]

A duramax can also make that much power with nothing but a tune

[@bobbybeyer2127]

@@duramax2079 Yes but a Duramax isn't 3.0L, it's a lot heavier than 550lbs and it sure as hell doesn't fit into passenger cars like an OM606 LOL

[@austinmonk8809]

I believe the lb7 is the best one for reliability. My dad bought one in cali back in 2004 and 485k later and 1 set of warranty injectors with a 4inch exhaust, bullydog tuner and a s&b intake.

[@troyforklifthill9254]

I have one. 2001 , 235,000 it runs now I still daily drive it. Injector rates ain’t exactly where they should be. But runs great. Drove it all over the country. Plenty of power. Lots of under carriage upgrades. 4inch exhaust sinister diesel. Mostly stock engine. Injectors will get changed soon and turbos and tuned.

[@nou8257]

I've had a few lb7's 1 lly and a lbz. The lb7's had simple small issues the lly i did a waterpump was its biggest issue the lbz everyone loves so much cost me 5k to fix a bone stock 160k mile truck ended up having blown headgaskets with no tuner or anything. granted im a ford guy i drive a 6.4 powerstroke and the duramaxes i sell as im not a big fan of the gm platform but if i was to get a duramax it would be a lb7 or lly with a 6 speed manual transmission.

[@JoseSanchez-wh1zb]

I own a lb7 2003 ❤I just don’t head gasket and injectors

[@JoseSanchez-wh1zb]

Where u get ur parts from?

[@austinmonk8809]

@@JoseSanchez-wh1zb the bully dog I bought used, and i can’t remember about the exhaust

[@carlosierra11]

I have had 2 LMLs and one new L5P and I love both engines.

[@jpope-ster1274]

By far the best breakdown of the Duramax I’ve ever seen

[@jamesrussell6344]

Awesome and informative video. Could you do one on the 3.0 and 2.8 duramax?

[@ss0073]

Not much to compare to with the LM2 3.0. Only been here 3 years. My 3.0 runs smooth as glass compared to my LBZ. Can’t even tell it’s running

[@jamesrussell6344]

I was mainly wondering if they are holding up well or if they have any weak points

[@chocolatcolumbo9484]

LB7 is honestly probably the best after injectorr fix.

[@theliberaldestroyer3796]

Im with you there. Aside from the injectors it’s truly the simplest and most reliable one of its kind. :) i own the dually model and Im in love with that machine.

[@sheputthelimeinthecoconut629]

I have a 2007 LBZ 3500 SRW. It has 98k miles and 95k of those were north of 23k GCVWR. Still runs and drives like new. Two sets of shocks, two sets of brakes, and fluid changes obviously. Oh and I had to pull and clean the stack at one point. One would say “only” 98k, but the majority of those were over 2/3 throttle. So it hasn’t lived a commuters life.

[@Juan-tj1bf]

I do hotshot in my 2018 L5P. 170xxx miles. No issues. Just a fuel rail presure sensor and map sensor. I love this thing. Hope I make to a million miles🙏. One thing people tell me with newer 2020 models is that they prefer the 6 speed allison. 10 speed allison down shifts alot when towing. Maybe that a topic to talk about in one of your future videos. 6 speed vs 10 speed allison.

[@803hotshot8]

I have a 2021 GMC 3500HD with the 10 speed Allison Trans I use it for hotshot as well and the only time it downshift a lot its on downgrades and hills . That 10 speed changes gears so fast its smooth like butter I love my Duramax 💯

[@raygoins9857]

@@803hotshot8 I love that allison transmission! Of course my 2013 has the LML. I've done alot to the fuel system and Egr delete you know the thing to keep from killing your engine. But I have had to do 1 thing to that 6 speed allison. Now from what I have understood ford has had a terrible problem with the 10 speed that they have been running in there super duty trucks. I've heard that at around 20,000 miles it starts slipping. As much money as those new trucks cost there shouldn't be 1 problem arise from them. But I was wondering if anyone has heard why ford Is having trouble and if there has been any problems with the 10 speed allison.

[@803hotshot8]

@@raygoins9857 that 6 speed Allison has proven to be bulletproof. And I don't think the 10 speed in the Ford is an Allison tbh but yeah I heard I a lot of those ( power turd) guys are having Trans problems with their new super duties with the 10 speed trans .

[@jonboy8639]

@@803hotshot8 I got the 2020 3500 I love it like u say it shifts perfectly if I didn’t have my banks gauges I wouldn’t know what gear I’m in after it shifts through 5 rest are smooth as silk 6 speed is dead to me lol

[@jonboy8639]

@@raygoins9857 no problem it’s a ford that’s it ha

[@Wrenchen-with-Darren]

Nicely done. LB7 non emissions, that's all. 330,000 miles and still going!!!

[@jacksonreid6412]

I’m hopefully about to purchase an LMM. Can’t wait to see where this journey goes

[@tnort101]

Great motors I love my 07 LMM deleted tuned DSP5 runs like a beast and stay cool while towing up the hills around Oregon even with the added power.

[@brianwhiteley4908]

Your guys content is incredible. Super informative can tell you put a ton of research into these videos. Keep it up boys!

[@CollaGoUnLTD]

My first truck was an LB7, it was a great truck and is still running strong to this day it has EFI Live Tunes. My new truck is the L5P, hands down there is no comparison to the power and torque it has over the LB7 on its level 5 tune. Only downside is the cost to delete it compared to all the previous Duramax platforms.

[@douglasfenbert1020]

You should check out Gale Banks. No need to delete emission systems to make higher horsepower. A Banks tuner will be cheaper than doing the delete.

[@CollaGoUnLTD]

@@douglasfenbert1020I actually have the Edge Pulsar on my L5P. I’m not a huge fan of Gale Banks and the way he self promoted his own product and trash talked his competition in his idash video.

[@eglofka]

Nice video and information! I had an lml 2016 traded for an l5p 2022. The truck itself is outstanding and very nicely done

[@803hotshot8]

That l5p is so strong and that 10 speed is a great transmission shifts so fast

[@majorbrooksjr4281]

The L5p is the one ok

[@compassandradio6261]

I would've liked for you to cover the new, smaller 3.0L I6 LM2. A great choice for long distance overlanding enthusiasts.

[@danielpaul5063]

I have one has 32k miles. Lemon law. They have had it for a total of 5 months in the first year. First it was leaky injectors, A week later fuel rail. A month later fuel pum, injectors and rail. Low and behold 3 days out of the shop same exact issues. No rhyme or reason. Almost got hit by a semi when it just shuts off or stutters. I like the idea of it. Great fuel mileage but man missed the mark on this one. Got to say it pulls good as well but not worth the headache. I think if they cleaned it up would be a great engine perfect if you don’t need the fat boy engines. Or just need to occasionally pull.

[@seabrookmx]

Timing set and oil pump drive at the rear of the engine makes servicing a nightmare. Already lots of reports of bad emissions systems.. No I think the 3.0's going to be a dud sadly. Half-ton diesels are cursed.

[@MarkBarrack]

Bought a 40k mile 21 with the 3.0 knowing the issues. But dang it is fun. Quick and great milage. No issues so far.

[@gjermundification]

4:27 LB7 7:00 LLY, LB7 bugfix 10:06 LBZ 13:16 LMM LBZ with added DPF 15:36 LML, LMM bugfix 19:21 L5P, way stronger engine, not only in terms of power output, but also longevity. No Ad Blue on any of these?

[@bcdieselsofficial]

DEF is AdBlue, and the SCR requires it.

[@Doc_Martin_Monty]

Great video! What's not that well known is that the 2017-2019 L5P is technically a gen 1 and the 2020+ is a gen 2. GM doesn't mention it but Banks did a side by side comparison and the cooling was significantly improved with larger cooling fan, larger oil cooler with a better design for flow, and better turbo cooling. I believe they also dyno more power stock for stock but can't say for sure.

[@jimm2442]

Correct information on cooling systems including a separate belt for the larger fan. I believe the engines HP and Torque are the same as the gen 1 though. I wonder if they made any improvements in the injector connectors?

[@bruceshepard1136]

@@jimm2442 u must have L5p with bad injectionor connections I feel ya pain 4and 7 on mine

[@mikethetoolman8776]

banks will help make the 22-23 motors the best ever!

[@jimm2442]

@@bruceshepard1136 No I do not, no issues with my 2021 3500HD at all. I have read about the injector harness issues though and that is what prompted my question.

[@baker52485]

2006 had LLYs and LBZs, both bolted to the 6spd Allison transmission. LLYs were first half of production and LBZs finished out the production year - verifiable via VIN. My 2006 LLY is sitting at 615k miles right now.

[@countcuda70]

The 2006 LLY is mechanically an LBZ. The engine was released before LBZ tuning was approved. Years ago you could go to the dealer to have your 2006 LLY tuned with the official LBZ tune.

[@waltersweet4595]

@@countcuda70 True. I have a 2006 digit 2 that is an LBZ

[@countcuda70]

@@waltersweet4595 2006 Vin code 2 is an LLY/LBZ. Vin code D is the LBZ. Technically they're both an LBZ though. The 2006 shouldnt be confused with the 2005 LLY. They're not the same engine. I also have a 2006 LLY/LBZ Vin code 2.

[@duramax2079]

The lb7 always had 300 hp I've had 2 lb7s an 03 and 01 and it's written 300hp on both of them

[@bryanginder5903]

Your right, I believe it's stamped on the tag on the valve cover it has 300

[@fnsawgun]

could be flywheel hp, Wikipedia says

[@duramax2079]

@@fnsawgun well the lb7 with less hp was in the vans that didn't had the allison so they had cut power a bit

[@techs1smh13]

@@duramax2079 they never put lb7 in vans. It's LLY or lbz my son has one with almost 400 k

[@duramax2079]

@@fnsawgun i found out why basically a long time ago a popular website listed the 7.3 powerstoke output as the lb7 output by mistake and every one went with it

[@kevindowell1001]

I’m impressed… none biased info… I am a diesel tech with a 2016 tampax… she runs great! Thanks for knowledge…

[@jefersondasilva7415]

One of the best videos so far thanks man .

[@csj9619]

2012 (LML) 6.6L 3500 dually Silverado with 254k and runs like a champ, getting good fuel mileage (20+). The company I work for bought this truck used in 2017 for around $10,000, which I'd say was a good deal. Fantastic powerplant, IMO.

[@shemwhitehead9517]

A lot of people love to hate on the LB7 for the injectors, but some of the highest HP/torque trucks to hit the dyno at the Ultimate Callout Challenge have been LB7s. And once you switch to the SOC injectors over the VCO that came stock the longevity issues go away.

[@countcuda70]

SAC injectors

[@daleleis5563]

What are SAC injections? Is it a brand or style? I picked up an 2003 parts truck with 230K miles on it complete REALLY cheep that needs work and maybe injectors. Hopping to repower my 1970 GMC 4X4 with the D-Max

[@countcuda70]

@@daleleis5563 Sac is a style of injector nozzle

[@daleleis5563]

@@countcuda70 thanks for the info

[@countcuda70]

@@daleleis5563 You're welcome

[@JoeSimple]

LBZ 260,000. Most frustrating issues for me is the fule filter housing manual pump "o" ring failure. Just need to get a fass or something.

[@adrianlaverick8040]

All LB7 were 300hp in 01, the only duramax with 235hp were the kodiaks and top kicks. I have no idea where the 235hp myth came from, but I started a few years ago being spread around and now it's prolific

[@gregrasmussen9915]

What about the L5D in the 4500hd to 6500hd??? I have an 06 LBZ that I bought new in 06 that I have put 300K + on. And I have a 2019 5500hd with the L5D Both are incredible engines.

[@mauibuilder1239]

The 2006 LLY is mechanically identical to the LBZ except that the LBZ is tuned for 50 more horsepower. The 2006-2007 Duramax engines are the best in my opinion in terms of reliability with plenty of power for my needs.

[@jcapen1]

Really love your videos. Getting information really helped me with my 6.4 a few years ago. I was better able to make a choice on replacing the truck or rebuilding a more reliable 6.4. I went with a rebuild with many upgrades including pistons and a full delete. It cost around 20k but has proven to be dependable and has ample power. Only downside is fuel consumption. I dont think that can be fixed. To replace my truck with something comparable to what I ended up with would have easily been over 40k. Thanks again.

[@amaziah2523]

I think that the LML is a great duramax engine . I think it gets overlooked a lot because of the CP4 , which I can understand. But other than that it’s one of my favorites .

[@bcdieselsofficial]

They also snap cranks and blow head gaskets.

[@amaziah2523]

@@bcdieselsofficial Any engine has a chance to break something. That doesn’t mean that it’s a high chance. No such thing as a perfect engine lol.

[@bcdieselsofficial]

@@amaziah2523 I know there’s no such thing as a perfect engine, but the LML Duramax engines I have been around have all snapped cranks.

[@amaziah2523]

@@bcdieselsofficial I have three and haven’t had a single problem with any cranks.

[@bcdieselsofficial]

@@amaziah2523 I guess you’ve been lucky.

[@jponyboyace]

Dude I have owned a 2003….2009…2011….and now own the 2024 midnight edition 2500……what a ride loved them all!!!!

[@jamesclark7248]

I have a 2012 LML with 196,000 miles, all stock. I've had problems, but all emissions system components. Otherwise the LML has been totally reliable, does not use oil between 5,000 mile changes, and gives me up to 18 mpg empty, 12 mpg towing.

[@abqgunner9070]

I have a 11 with the all that choke taking off with 5 inch pipes and I ran a car hauler at 19.5 and on the way back with a car 🚗 and I got 18.5 back I truly can't complain I enjoy my LML

[@chrisaskfotiy967]

I bought my LBZ new in 07, still driving it today, so far a glow plug has gone south. I just purchased an L5P, we will see if it holds up as well as my LBZ. I kept the LBZ just in case.

[@bige9830]

I own an LB7. purchase the truck with about 7000 miles on it. Change my fuel filter When I changed my oil. At 5000 miles . Use quality fuel. Also put in the appropriate additives in the fuel. My truck didn't need injectors till it hit 230000 miles.

[@Dustrunnersauto]

I’ve read that additives can be hit or miss on helping with the injectors longevity, but it sounds like it worked great for you!

[@duramax2079]

What additive u use?

[@thomasbrunt9323]

My 2001 LB7 hit 263k before I had to do injectors. I believe fuel additives, Lift pump, and changing the fuel filter as regular maintenance is a big factor

[@thomasbrunt9323]

@@duramax2079 I have been using hot shot every day additive anytime I fill the truck. In my bulk tank I use power service diesel treatment for the anti gel.

[@duramax2079]

@@thomasbrunt9323 I'm want to belive that hotshot is good but the dosage per quantity of diesel is so insanely low that I believe its mostly snake oil

[@rp1645]

Thank you for my understanding of the Letter's GM uses for Engine call outs through the years.

[@andrewt248]

I love my Duramax. I think that those early (70's/80's) GM diesel turds are the main reason that diesel engines never entered the mainstream of the American auto market.

[@borla4491]

The Detroit Diesel V8 6.2/6.5 ain't bad however.

[@Berto-1117]

That and VW killed it when it was growing again

[@Trip1443]

I still drive a 6.5td and it does everything I need. It may not be the fastest or the strongest but it does get me 20 MPG

[@borla4491]

@@Trip1443 That's the thing, the 6.5/6.2 was/is meant MAINLY for FUEL ECONOMY. Not to be a powerhouse.

[@detroitdiesel-vu3ig]

The 6.2 sold amazingly well until its retirement. It's still a fantastic motor

[@DRAKE_DOES_STUFF]

I currently have a super duty 7.3 and I love it, but I do really like the sound of a duramax

[@automotiveandmore]

I wish you included the LM2 Duramax as its now a very popular engine on GM half tons.

[@jamesstewart8075]

My 04 LLY has 318,000 on it still runs and drives great, has tons of power. The only thing I have touched on the engine is a water pump, alternator and glow plug controller. The seat isn't even ripped!

[@robertknapp9054]

Nice video very informative. I still love the LBZ Duramax. All others don't compare with all the emission standards. Thanks

[@stephenjones1829]

Awesome video. My first Duramax was a brand new 2008 LMM that I ended up selling, then purchasing a used 2007 with LBZ. Best choice I ever made. One thing you said or I think you said. The LBZ did not have EGR but mine did have one. I assume its because the original owner bought it in California.

[@sheputthelimeinthecoconut629]

All LBZ had EGR. But it was relatively trouble free so you never hear about it.

[@1979utuber]

I have a 2005 lly and I did the intake horn, aftermarket engine oil cooler and a bigger transmission cooler otherwise stock and the only issues I have is the rust on the body 🤣

[@SimplexSM]

I have an L5D (detuned L5P on 4500-6500 trucks) and I love it. Plenty of power backed up by an Allisson 2700 (a real one not the "branded" gm trannys on the 2500-3500s)

[@bcdieselsofficial]

I thought that was still the 1000.

[@moeg584]

Lbz by far is the most looked for! It my first dmax and be my last 1

[@prairiechicken4910]

great vid... i've owned 7 vw tdi's and 2 bmw diesels (all deleted) and working on my first Duramax. My dad has an 01 and loves it - I could go with any version with 6 speed will see what hits the most check boxes when i'm ready to buy.

[@LESLASLESLAS]

I have a LMM with 287,000 miles and a LML with 937,000. They literally run forever.

[@johnsonvillesausage2844]

I don’t assume the 937,000 is a typo? Holy shit

[@JerryJrsGarage]

Got one with 425k and it’s got literally 0 issues still has CP4 been deleted and tuned forever

[@evidentlyfuckingnot]

May I ask your maintenance routine?

[@winstonsmith3685]

My buddy’s dad had a 6.5L GMC 2500 two tone black and silver, lit visor. 2” lift, 33’s. That was my dream truck back in the day.

[@micahtutton6187]

EGR has nothing to do with "unburned" fuel. Introducing exhaust into the intake simply lowers combustion temperatures. Which produces lower NOX emissions.

[@mikemazza6133]

You need to go back to work on your research. The egr raises combustion temp, and Increases nox emissions. Raising combustion temps helps reduce soot and does finish burning un-burnt fuel but on the flip side increases nox. So to get nox down the scr system was applied to use urea to lower/eliminate nox. I'm not a fan of egr systems but what you claim is wrong.

[@blackericdenice]

7:40 egr is used to reduce exhaust temperature. Not to burn un burnt fuel.

[@chevydmax1000]

Great job overall! I have to correct you on one particular item. The New Duramax in 2001 (LB7) had 300 hp and 520 lb.ft. of Torque and not the 235 hp and 500 lb.ft. you said. Those were the numbers of the Ford Power Stroke at the time. Also, you did not mention that the Duramax was approximately 50% quieter than the Power Stroke which was very big at the time since the power stroke was soooo noisy.

[@Yoatusboatus]

You tried to correct him and still got it wrong

[@zx10r.babydoll]

@@Yoatusboatus if you are going to take the time to call him out on something you claim he’s wrong about then why don’t you take the time and say what he is wrong about!

[@Yoatusboatus]

@@zx10r.babydoll I don’t need to you can look it up

[@caysenchristensen4417]

I’m looking at getting a 02 LB7 with 248,000 on it. It’s been extremely taken care of. Any thoughts?

[@natep1661]

The Duramax engine uses very clever, very long lasting timing gears that are nearly service free.

[@p0weraid]

Same as Cummins

[@armandogonzalez8135]

I have the fist L5P made on 2017 and I love it,had some issues before I deleted but never again is a 378,000 miles ❤

[@RobertSmith-nh5uu]

I have both an 01 LB7 and a 20 L5P and I'm happy with both.

[@shyguy2481]

Just bought an 02 lb7 under 40k miles for 30k. Love it. Been stored well and like new.

[@jimgolden9666]

Absolutely Excellent video! Thank you for such great information in such a concise and useful format!

[@NYVET48TFW]

The L5P is truly, undeniably the best Duramax ever! In fact, I think it's the best diesel period...it may be a few HP short of the others, but 'quality over quantity' is best in my opinion! This thing is absolutely amazing, my '18 is stock and has more power than I'll ever need (yes I do USE it) and the acceleration thanks to the Borg Warner turbo is amazing even compared to gas powered trucks (6.0, and the new 6.6 gas). Completely flawless at 63K so far, I love my L5P! Update: 71K, still flawless!

[@akaixl83]

Any update??

[@NYVET48TFW]

@@akaixl83 104K, only emissions issues, fixed under extended warranty. Other than that, it's the most awesome truck I've ever owned and I'm never getting rid of it!

[@chris13210]

My 2018 l5p 160,000 miles deleted runs and pulls great no problems at all

[@FansSports]

I have the LBZ, now I need a L5P to go with it.

[@daleleis5563]

Me Too. Love my LBZ

[@deadmanwalkin9912]

Whoa. Awesome vid. My army buddy and I went to light duty diesel school in El Paso and we both rebuilt my lb7. My first rebuild ever.

[@maxmintz511]

Excellent presentation!

[@happygnomev2576]

Its hard not to fall on love with the duramax motors. Im looking at an LMM right now, very excited. Not to mention how fine a pice of machinery like the L5P is!

[@patrickhammond8501]

L5P is the best diesel hands down

[@ryanhunt7330]

I have a 2024 duramax Denali ultimate has the upgraded L5P with 470 hp. Love it. Does regen quite a bit

[@suny9144]

Love my lb7

[@HomesteaderJake]

I have an lb7 that my grand father drove off the line in ‘02 . The lb7 has been a great truck only injectors water pump in 200,000+ miles. Just ordered a 2023 1500 3.0 liter diesel (LZ0) with almost the same power as the lb7.

[@_.incredible_magnum._291]

Imagine if Detroit gave gm a smaller version of the 6v71 Detroit to put in their trucks. They would've killed the game

[@donziperk]

Could never meet emission standards.

[@_.incredible_magnum._291]

@@donziperk emissions standards are a joke

[@shyguy2481]

@@_.incredible_magnum._291 agreed. Them trees need to breathe 🌳

[@_.incredible_magnum._291]

@@shyguy2481 that's literally what trees are for tho. They filter the air.

[@donziperk]

@@_.incredible_magnum._291 no argument from me but we aren’t the ones setting the regulations for the manufacturers.

[@SF-fm7ov]

Wow! Duramax 101 completed. Very thorough.

[@douglascaseoutdoors8026]

The 6.5L from 94-00 had 185 horse, not 130. And you forgot to mention that the 6.2 and the 6.5 are both idi engines.

[@amalfi460]

He said the 6.2 had 130hp the 6.5 just showed the graph @ 185hp

[@werdnaja5762]

I made my choice if I can’t find a lbz get a lmm or a l5p thank u for the stats

[@jacobstrutner8232]

Connecting rods on lb7LLY/lbz are the same. The pistons changed. Lb7 had better pistons so the rods failed first, lly/lbz pistons tended to fail first and saved the rods. Any real Duramax engine builder knows this

[@countcuda70]

LB7 and LLY have the same rods and pistons. LBZ rods and pistons are different

[@kw3640]

Lly best kept secret!! Hahaha lbz is lly identical in every way. Different program that's all.

[@countcuda70]

@@kw3640 That's not totally true. That's only for the 2006 LLY vin code 2. LLY in 04.5 and 2005 are not the same as an LBZ. The 04.5 - 05 LLY has the same rotating assembly as the LB7. In 2006 the LBZ engine was used with different tuning. GM was waiting for the LBZ tuning to be approved. The LBZ has different rods and pistons from the LLY. Compression ratio, engine block and turbo are different also.

[@kw3640]

Yes the late 06 sorry

[@davidnelson7407]

@@countcuda70 I have a 2006 LLY VIN code 2 and I have been trying to figure out what the real difference is between it and the LBZ other than less power. If I understand you correctly, it is an LBZ but tuned as an LLY, correct?

[@aaronbowman4717]

Bought an 04 lb7. I always loved the cat eye and lbz but got the lb7 for a great price. I just have no clue what to do to improve it mechanically. It has on the fly? And kryptonite arms