1/2-Ton Duramax trucks!

Blast from the past! No, this isn't about GM's future plans - though I believe a 1/2-ton GM truck with a V-6 Duramax would be a huge success.... ;)

The first half-ton Duramax powered truck was GM Powertrain's GMC shown here that they raced at the 2000 Pikes Peak hill-climb. Driven by Evan Evans, the Duramax was driven to a first place finish in its class. The engine was reportedly producing 600 horsepower, and used a beefed 4L80-E. This truck didn't utilize a body lift.

http://www.thedieselpage.com/images/pikespeaktruck2.jpg

The above CJ Boggs photo shows the truck during the time it was used as part of the Duramax Diesel Power Tour.

http://www.thedieselpage.com/images/pikespeaktruck.jpg

This photo was taken during The Diesel Page 2001 Rendezvous in Ohio. GM Powertrain brought their race truck to the DMAX plant for our group to see in person. Dr. Lee even got to drive it a short distance while we were there. Somewhere in a file folder is a stack of photos taken with TDP's forum moderators and many other members sitting in the driver's seat.

http://www.thedieselpage.com/images/DmaxProject09.jpg

Our own Duramax project was developed as an effort to explore the power potential, as well as viability in vehicle applications beyond the 2500HD/3500. 25 mpg at 75-80 mph goes a long way to demonstrate the viability....

Jim

I don't think they would be able to build or ship them fast enough...

Throughout the 90's, you could buy a 1500 series pickup or SUV equipped with the 6.5L turbodiesel and 4L80-E. The chassis used for the half ton vehicles was deemed adequate for the weight of the diesel engine and transmission. Either by luck or by design, the weight of the Duramax 6600 very nearly matches that of the 6.5TD. The extensive use of aluminum does make a difference...

The front torsion bars in our Lil Red project did not need to be adjusted to accept the extra weight, and GM Powertrain's Pikes Peak race truck did very well with its half ton front suspension. :)

Jim