GMC Duramax Diesel

stephenmgleason · 03-10-2011, 02:42 PM

Everything i have looked at thus far has been Ford PSD engine. I have done a ton of research on the 6.0, but just came across a friend of a friend that is selling a 2007 GMC Duramax SMB. It is pretty close to what I am looking for but I am new at the Duramax engine. I have spoken with a couple GMC owners but wanted to throw this to the forum, as I didn't see any PSD VS DURAMAX threads.

What are the pros and cons of the DURAMAX.
One question specifically: can we get an extended warranty similar to the Ford 200k extended warranty that we can get through Jay at Towne Ford?

Thanks!!

carringb · 03-10-2011, 03:51 PM

There's no problem with the DuraMax. But on that year it will be paired with the GM 4-speed transmission. The transmission is not as strong as the Allison or Torqueshift, but will hold up if you stay within limits.

Main issue is the Express platform is lighter duty, so max GCWR is 16,000 pounds (vs 20,000 E350 PSD) and you can't a true off-road 4x4 conversion for the Chevy, due to its lighter chassis. You can get a Quigley IFS setup, but that's more for bad weather driving, then real off-roading.

Stosh · 03-10-2011, 05:52 PM

I don't own a Duramax but have several friends that have them in pickups. They all seem to love them. The Duramax is detuned in the vans, but still has plenty of power and good fuel mileage. The 2011's are priced out of sight (extra 10K for dmax). So, if the van is in good shape at a good price, I would be tempted to go for it.

saline · 03-10-2011, 06:21 PM

I drive both 6.0L (my SMB) and Chevy Duramax's at work. I/we drive the Duramax units hard as they are ambulances. We have not had any problems with the Chevy vans and I have been impressed with thier performance. They are quiet and powerful. The only negative thing I can say about them is that the transmission has a horrible lack compression braking and the shifting between 1st and 2nd is sensitive.