<DIV>Just wondering how many of you knew about all the trouble diesel engines have before you bought one?</DIV>
<DIV>Now that your finding out, would you buy another one?</DIV>
<DIV>I'm happy with mine so far, but all these horror stories are making me very concerned about my 40,000 dollar truck.</DIV>
<DIV>Also are you cocerned about all of the dealers that won't train the mechanics to work on these things?</DIV>
<DIV>Dam you would think that all the money G.M. gets for these trucks it would be mandatory they (the dealers) have certified mechanics for the Max and the Allison before they are allowed to sell any.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>OK, Rant Off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</DIV>Edited by: John R

I didn't have any idea. I traded in my '01 2500HD 6.0 4L80E 4:10 reg cab LB with only 14,889 miles on the '03 because I bought a larger gooseneck toyhauler and the 16,000 lb GCWR wasn't enough!


I would have gotten the 8.1 gas engine, but I heard that the mileage was a WHOLE lot better with diesel. I have never owned a diesel truck before.

All I ever heard was Diesel's needed less maintenance than a gasser.


Now I know better. But I sure do love the power when I tow and the allison is great so far. I had a 2001 2500HD 6.0 4.10 before this truck and the gas mpg on that was killing me towing.


So I guess I learn alot about Diesels and enjoy the ride

<DIV>Just wondering how many of you knew about all the trouble diesel engines have before you bought one?</DIV>
<DIV>Now that your finding out, would you buy another one?</DIV>
<DIV>I'm happy with mine so far, but all these horror stories are making me very concerned about my 40,000 dollar truck.</DIV>
<DIV>Also are you cocerned about all of the dealers that won't train the mechanics to work on these things?</DIV>
<DIV>Dam you would think that all the money G.M. gets for these trucks it would be mandatory they (the dealers) have certified mechanics for the Max and the Allison before they are allowed to sell any.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>OK, Rant Off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</DIV>








YUP,


Hey, we are just seeing a small amount of problems, most of which are misdiagnosed or incorrectly fixed the first time.


The duramax diesel engine is great, I would not personally go back to a gasser, not as much fun or powerful, however, they have problems as well with the gassers.


Enjoy it because most will never see a problem, forums act as magnifying glasses, only people with problems post about them, how many members here ???? How many have injector or head gasket problems??


Probably 1/10 of 1 % or less...........


Don't sweat it, drive it and enjoy it.


Thttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clown.gifNY

This is my first diesel and the first non-Ford I've ever bought for myself. I've have five or six if I could afford them. I love old cars, so know I'd love to stick some diesels in the ones I have...

A dmax in my 64 Gallaxie...
a 6.0PSD in my 78 F350
a Cummins in my mom's 64 short box F100
and whatever I can fit in my Falcons...

Things to do first...
Win lottery

Right....
Ox

I was lurking on these forums for 2 years before I bought my truck. 2 weeks after I bought it I had to have 2 injectors and a fuel line replaced. Don't tell GM, but yes I would still buy another one. Has there ever been a vehicle sold that didn't have some problems? If they would put this same engine in a Suburban, LB7 or LLY, I would be standing on their door step waiting, cash in hand.

No, I wasn't aware of the problems. I thought that diesels required less upkeep. I also thought that by year 3 of the Duramax all of the problems would have been worked out. I should have known GM would pull their usual stunt and just replace problem parts with the same problem parts.


I'm not sure at this point about another one. I'll have to wait and see how it does up to 100k miles. The one thing I'm very sure about is that GM is going to have to work harder for my money than they did this time. My usual tendency to buy GM has stopped with this truck. Edited by: 1*

This is my first diesel and I bought it with towing a fifth wheel in mind as well as regualr use. I have not had any problems so far and at this point would buy another. I think we are begining to see similar problems with the other diesels using the Bosh common rail system. I added the Nicktane and use additive and will hope for the best. I love the power this truck has, Yes I do run a Juice box but normally drive pretty conservatively but what fun when you do want to nail it!!!!!!! Makes a very noticeable differance towing too.





As far as maintanace I don't think it's really any different than a gasser. If you don't change the fuel filter on a lot of newer cars it will cost you a fuel pump. Oil? Well this is the first vehicle i have ever had that reccomneds a 10,000 mile oil change interval (no I don't go that long).

Lol, "ALLLLL the problems"? perception is a funny thing..


~HELL YES I would buy my truck again everyday.


This is my second diesel. My first (6.0L PSD) was a buyback due to all the early production problems and I still bought another Diesel.


I doubt I'll ever go back to gas as long as I can keep affording diesels.

My hope is to not have to buy another DMAX for quite a long time!!! I figure in another 10+ years, GM will be offering some other type of powerhouse that will put the DMAX to shame...kinda like the DMAX did to the 6.5 so to speak.


I have my Nick Cat filter on with fingers crossed that my fuel system will stay in top shape... 16,200 miles in 13 months and no repairs to my truck at all.


Bob

Yes, I would buy another DMAX equipped truck.


Will be replacing my truck in 2006. It may be with a GM, Dodge or Ford product. Won't know for sure until the time arrives.


Until then, I am enjoying the ownership of my current Chev 2500HD D/A. No problems to date. The last time the truck was to dealer was when it left the lot new (though the steering shaft "clunk" is starting to appear).



<DIV>Also are you cocerned about all of the dealers that won't train the mechanics to work on these things?</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Actually, I am more concerned that GM skimps on the time allotments to perform necessary repairs (flat rate). The dealerships are independent business's, if the money is there, the training and skilled mechanics will show up.</DIV>

Yup certainly would; no problems on mine to date. Had a 6.5 for years with only a bad driver module that had to be replaced. As well the GM dealer here treats me good. As far as Dodge goes- had 4 over the years, all bad- (gassers though) but the troubles wern't with the engines anyway- just everything else. Never had a Ford so can't comment on durability firsthand- but most of them are just sooo ugly............

YES DEFINITELY,


As soon as I roll this truck off a cliff I going to buy the engine/tranny from the insurance company and put it in my 66 Ford Bronco!


Sterring shaft clunk on my nerves!

Maybe, because I have zero brand loyalty (horrors)! The only given is it will be a diesel truck and the engine/transmission has to be proven reliable. It has to be (or easily modified to be) comfortable for long hours behind the wheel. A bowtie is optional but preferred.

Hard to say at this point. Will do the un-necessary but necessary secondary filter. Nicktane will likely be the choice on this. The truck has been great but time will be telling factor. I would hate to have my family out on vacation in the brand new 31' travel trailer and have problems. They all have problems, we just don't need them. So far so good.

I have to say that so far I love my truck, that's not to say I love everything about it, but for the most part it's good. Now if I had to do it over again knowing what I know now, I don't know if I would. I am really nervous about the possible injector problem. I think alot of the worry comes from the fact I had a Banks Stinger Kit installed and that the dealer will not repair the injectors under warranty even though the Banks Kit isn't going to hurt the injectors at all. GM has put to many constraints on the truck and I think a truck that costs this much should be able to accomodate some modification, by the owner, without warranty issues. My $.02.


JP

I am sure that as of right now I would if I were in the market again. I started looking at these boards before I bought my '02 2500HD XC. I researched and looked for a decent deal on a used diesel pickup for almost a year. Just simply too hard headed to ever pay 40 grand for any pickup truck (unless it included a loaded toyhauler and hot and cold running maids). Didn't completely rule out any brand although my preferrences were for a GM. I talked to owners of GM, Dodge and Ford. All indicated that their brand of choice had seen some problems even if their own trucks had been trouble free. The gassers also see problems and even considering the potential diesel problems a gasser's longevity is considerably shorter than a diesel. Some owners and board members reported to have owned multiple brands and pointed out which models (in their opinions) excelled in which areas.
So having done all that I found my truck, paid a bit more than I really thought I wanted to but it seemed to be a good deal considering the features, extras and 28k miles.
So far I have only put about 3k miles on it but absolutely love it. A nicktane filter is probably in the near future for it. The jury is still out regarding a chip/tuner.

Even with what I know now about injector problems etc.. I'd have to honestly say yes I'd buy another. I am well more educated about this vehicle now then when I bought it. ( from excellent sites like this one!!!)This is by far is the best vehicle I've ever owned. I do like the Dmax/Allison combo, they were made for each other. I have owned other vehicles, and they all seemed to have their own quirks and problems. Also I never felt comfortable on long drives,always cramped up, sore back etc.. with my other vehicles, almost seems like this truck was custom built for me.To date I haven't had any major problems though it is something I'm aware could happen. To busy enjoying the ride to worry about what might happen!!!http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gifhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gifhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif


P.S. I agree GM needs to train their service technicians. It would be nice not getting the scared deer in the headlight look from the service manager when you start asking questions about the truck.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gif

Owned 2 pontiac grand prix's a 97 then a 98 both super riding rigs but I must say my 2004 2500 hd rides much much better and handles just as good as the widetrack....THESE AREN'T YOUR DADDIES PICKUP TRUCKS LOL.Anyhoo I would buy another.I aint skerrrrred of the injector problems.I will just keep up with good preventive maintenance.Besides I think bad fuel is basically the problem not the injectors.That's my .02 and nothing more





Tomslick24

Bought it because it was the best at that time. I have had 2 injector failures, 3 injector seat leaks and 1 transmission body replaced. I would still buy another one if I needed and would also buy a Suburban if they would put one in for the wife. Why, with all of my problems? DmaxAlli Tech, this board and the other one too. All helped and got me through the rough times. Made a bunch of new friends too. I also know that the new motor fixes several of the problems I had. I hope not to need to get another one anytime soon, but I am glad others won't have to worry about it. I have added 2 extra fuel filters and a lift pump, so I really expect no more injector problems. I love the truck and with my tune the extra punch. Had a hemi for lunch just the other day. Taste like chicken, but that was probably from the corner we went through.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Evil Smile.gif Poor guy even had his window down, which I filled with smoke. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Shocked.gif

At 48k I am very happy with my truck and would buy another DMax.


On the other hand, if I start having expensive repairs, can anybody tell me if the running boards, bug shield, bed topper, headlight harness,K&amp;N air filter and "juice box" off my Chevy will fit the Dodge that I am going to buy?


Just kidding......well sort of....I know that stuff won't fit. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

Chuntag 95,


Better get your check book out. Just herd the SUBURBS are available with the LLY?

Chuntag 95,


Better get your check book out. Just herd the SUBURBS are available with the LLY?





I wish it was true. I've been wishing since 2001 though, so I'm no longer expecting a D-max Suburban any time soon.


If they put a D-max in the Sub I'll be there to ge one. . . well actually I'll hold out for a Yukon XL, but thats only because they look better http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif and the diesel savy of the GMC dealers is A LOT better than the Chevy delears nearest me.





If somebody hits my truck with an RPG this afternoon the replacement might very well be a Dodge. Everything I objected to about 2002 Rams has been addressed on the new ones, and I could get 325HP and 600 Lb-ft with my prefferred 6 speed.





I'm not shopping though. The '91 is still going strong at 206,000 miles and 13 years, and it isn't even a diesel. I'm expecting the '02 to do as well, and if it doesn't GM won't get another chance. Fool me once; Shame on you! Fool me twice; Not gonna happen!

Would I buy again?


Yes. I am expecting to keep my 2003 until she hit at least 100,000.

I would certainly buy another diesel, but I would not buy a Chevrolet. Not because I necessarily believe Dodge or Ford is better, just that the response from the dealer/Chevrolet and downtime with problems is just too much for me. Although, some people seem to downplay the number of problems, I have just come in contact with to many people that have had trouble with theirs. I know Ford had trouble and after some pressure of a lawsuit, they recalled 66,000 of their trucks, and actually bought 1500 back from the owner. I probably will buy a new Ford, although the Dodge HO maybe better, I want a crew cab and the Dodge's rear space is just to small. It is to bad, as I have been a Chevrolet man all my life.

This is my second max. I put 70k on my '02 with zero problems. 12k on the '04 in four months. Weather or not I would buy another one depends on what is available next time I am shopping. I would buy a Dodge HO cummings in a minute if they would change the cab and put a decent seat in their trucks.

I absolutely would, eventhough mine is in the first 3000 miles. I traded a 98 454 gasser for this truck, and from the time I bought it new (the gasser that is) I had the rear end, the front end, the front brakes, the engine (yes the whole thing) twice replaced, and some other minor items, and loved that truck (call me crazy)http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gif But, the dealer made the difference. They responded everytime with a fix (generally right the first time) and kept me in the truck. (Hall Chevy of Prosser Washington).

Not sure where I was going...http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Ermm.gif Oh Yea, If is is made by man, and has moving parts, it will break, some more than others. But, this D/A combo is what everyone else is striving for, and we got it now!!! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif Enjoy it.

Besides, I am in the Bow Tie collection mode.Edited by: ChevyPackin'Heat

I may or may not buy another one one. It depends on my experience with this one and what is hapening with trucks when the time comes. I don't have brand loyalty and don't think it is wise for our own good. I don't want to spend my money on junk (I don't consider this truck junk, yet). I've owned Datson, GMC, Chevy, Dodge, Ford, and Toyota. The only one I've bought twice in a row was Toyota. If they build a diesel that will compete with the towing capacity of the others, I would probably try one of them next. http://dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big%20Smile.gif

With 3600 miles on my 2004 2500HD CHEVY DMAX the answer is yes I'd buy another one. Just like the rest of you, I realize something may go wrong later but I try to always be optimistic. I LOVE this truck! I find myself taking the long way from point A to point B because it's such a joy to drive! I also own two diesel ford f-250's. They have been worked hard and are still in service. There isn't anything wrong with a ford. I simply don't like the way they sit, drive, run, handle, sound, look or pull. Maybe the new CHEVY has influenced me somewhat. You guys should see my old 87 K5 BLAZER. I bought her new and she's still running great at 200,000 mileshttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif------------------------------Later!!!!!http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cool.gif---------Phil

Since I'm on #8 D/A , yes I will get another one (sport red GMC next time).


Hopefully some LLY mods will show up.

Yep. This truck has been flawless.

I could never go back to a gasser after driving my DMAX. Love the power &amp; I haven't noticed any extra service that my gasser required, just extra power. All trucks require the proper service gass or diesel, if you don't your just asking for problems.


Sure, I'd buy another one &amp; wouldn't even consider a gasser.

This is my third diesel. I would definately buy another duramax. In fact I would buy two more if I could affford it. I would also buy a used one.


Diesels are less maintenance. The maitenance issues are mostly fuel filters and oil changes. There is not tune up.


Older trucks will need batteries replaced--an easy job. With dual batteries this is more money.


They can chew up starters. If there is a hard to reach strap holding up the back end and you leave it off, you will go through starters--install them correctly and save money and hassle. One way to kill a starter is to over crank it. Don't do it and you starter will last a long time. Don't bleed your system by cranking, and use an engine warmer in cold weather. In short use a little common sense and your truck will take care of you.


The fuel economy is great and they don't explode like gasoline. I've seen people burn to death in gas tank explosions--horrifying to watch and be helpless to help.


The only hassle is finding fuel on a Sunday. I've put extra or bigger fuel in each of my diesels and solved that problem.

Would buy another in a "heartbeat" but I think the wife would kill me. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gifhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gifhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif My '02 is AWESOME. No problems whatsoever. I had originally bought an '03 1/2 ton ext cab and HATED it after about 3 months. Some of my fellow drivers at UPS and I got in an discussion about what would be the PERFECT truck, and after much research I found that the Duramax Crew 4x4 was what I should have bought. One day I drove by a dealer with this low-miles '02 Duramax crew 4x4 on the lot. Talk about being in the right place at the right time. He gave me what I owed on my '03, so I did not lose $$ (way more than most would give on a 6-month old truck!!!)...one of the luckiest days in my life. You should have seen the jaw-dropping looks and atta-boys at UPS when I pulled in that 1st day. One of my buddies offered to buy it from me on the spot..but NO WAY was he getting my "new" truck! I can't say enough how wonderful this truck is no matter the conditions, or how much fun it's been to add things to make it "mine"!!http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif


Another thing.....this site is such an awesome, positive thing to have. The guys in here are incredible!http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gifhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gifhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif

YES!!! I'm on my second. If I would have purchased a crew in '02 I wouldn't have had to buy a crew in '04. Now I know why everyone was buying crewcabs. '02 57,000 mi 2 nsbu switches both out of warranty. Other than that no problems with either truck.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Approve.gif

YES, everytime I get in it,its like the first time, like a kid with a new toy. Its comfortable to sit in for long distances, gets great fuel milage compared to the gasser I had before, I never was able to tow at 90 + MPH, not that I do tow at 90mph, but I can. I'll have what breaks repaired and keep driving it!! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

I will never buy another gm car again unless its a vette or similar even then I would rather have the bmw m6. As far as trucks go there is no other practical choice with the power of the dmax other than ford and dodge and I wont buy either of those but if toyota or nissan would build a truck that could tow what a dmax could see yah gm. I was brought up in a gm house hold own a 70 chevelle 00 camaro ss and have a dmax due any day. I bought my wife a grand prix and have had minor problems with it but the quality is no where near a nissan or infiniti or toyota bmer audi ect. So my next car wont be a gm hopefully gm reads these cites becuase my many calls to customer service about their quality has done nothing but they really dont care about quality they care about how many cars they can sell and how much profit they can make on them. if they brought their quality up they wouldnt have to give rebates to sell their vehicles. ok im done now Edited by: closs2sx