Here's my new baby. BRAND NEW!! Oh this rocks, can't wait to prelube it and put the fuel and boost to her. :ro) 2005 Peninsular Engine, with the Diamond in the Valley. She has stronger webs, 20% heavier casting on the main caps, new formulated metal with better alloy content, better cooling, just Better, better, better and 18:1. I am just glad to have a warranty too.):h Should be running Friday . . .

can't get images to appear, man i am retarded. how does this work again?

Let me be the first to say, congrats!

Lessee, You, me, ronniejoe and HH from the page. Anyone else starting up an new 18:1 this summer!

Tim

just to make the jaws drop,

Short block = $5800.00:drop_mout
1 year, unlimited mile warranty

took a lot of self-searching to justify that one, i am still a little weary

Let me be the first to say, congrats!

Lessee, You, me, ronniejoe and HH from the page. Anyone else starting up an new 18:1 this summer!

Tim

YES!!!

I didn't want you guys to forget me yet!:D

Whoops, forgot the other CR.

My bad!

T

can't get images to appear, man i am retarded. how does this work again?

Have to used advanced posting feature and add image using manage attachments tool bar, and upload image /browse

did it work:o:

a few more, when it first was birthed at my loading dock

Anyone else doing splayed mains too?

Chicago TDP, if it makes you feel any better, I know Matt Koning personally and have seen there shop and facility. You are in good hands with that engine. Having talked to Matt at lenght about his history in the 6.5 market, there is non better.

You should see that twin turbo 6.5 he has on display.... Even makes a Dmax guy envious!

Anyone else doing splayed mains too?

I'm still collecting parts for mine hoping to not need it until I finish collecting all my parts and assemble it, been keeping the truck off the roasd as fuel is $$$ and it's cheaper to run my gasser C1500, plus now only 75 miles from 100K on the odometer, so when I do run it I'm not hard hitting it, my main web inspection shows currently I'm free of any cracks on the bottom end of the engine.

Minimal wear in the bores still have original cross hatching visible, I may splay this block, but it's an oil spray one so I'm not sure how much meat is there for doing splay work.

OK, 2 questions..

What is that line coming out of the back of the motor and running to the drivers side, and is your name really Lewandowski? What a mouth full.

BTW, I see they gave you the oil pump drive that also has a tach hookup. Nice!

Tim

Whoops, forgot the other CR.

My bad!

T

I'm on the verge of pulling the heads on the '94 and drill 5 cc's material between each valve set. Going for 19.5:1 cr

SWEEEEEETTTTT ! ! ! !

Cowracer,
u know the hole in the back of the valley that lets out the water, oil and such? Well, on the new block, that is redirected to the side as to not get all over the tranny. Its kinda neat but i see no real need for it, it looks sweet though:cool: .


YES, my name is Adam Lewandowski and I am the best Polish engineer East of the Mississippi, as I like to claim;) .

I was not expecting to get that sensor on the block either. Also, notice that the rear exit oil pressure hole is not straight up but angled to eliminate the brass elbow normally needed. If looking at the deck, you can notice the thicker casting too, upped by 20% in the valley structure.

Sorry guys forgive my ignorance...but whats the compression ratio of a stock 6.5?? Just curious...how else are these new short blocks different? Do you still use the same turbo and injection systems?? How do they perform compared to a stock 6.5 and what are they dynoed at (roughly)? (I would assume much better!) Anyways, looks awesome, good luck with it!:)

---Ben

congrats on the new block.. Does anybody know what is the maximum SAFE boost with the 18:1 pistons?

23:1

I am not sure, I am gonna test it though;) . I am gonna run my scanner hooked up to my truck for a few weeks and monitor everything within my eyes view. I am gonna start of at around 15-20 psi and work up to see how the boost affects my EGT, Tranny, IAT, work % which is calculated with my scanner and also see what my fuel rate does. I am thinking that I am gonna run out of fuel really fast with this new engine. That is gonna be my weakness right now. Hopefully and I can get a flash or something to up that a little.

After talking with DAS IIRC it wasn't going to be a problem running 22+ PSI boost with my application, i just asked em to set it for 15 PSI when there done, I do believe i'll be getting it on the dyno before i pick it up also, not 100% sure but say 80% depending on timing of picking it up and it getting into the dyno shop.

So because i've been sitting around not doing much i decided i needed a new toy, it don't run on diesel but it does run on mixed gas!

Good purchase on the Peninsular engine. I also added a girdle. Matt was very good to work with. I purchased a long block and have about 400 miles on it now. Running great! IMHO it appeard to be the best set up for long term. Need to fix my AC now.

Congrats on the new engine Chicago TDP! Very nice setup. Its makin me drool on the keyboard:ro)

Are you pleased with the cold starting of the 18:1?

From experience, that coupled with a loss of low end power (pre boost) make for a less than spectacular experience overall.

Couple that with the price, and that it's still 20+ year old engine technology really has me wondering why so many invest so much money in these older vehicles.

Couple that with the price, and that it's still 20+ year old engine technology really has me wondering why so many invest so much money in these older vehicles.
Cause they can :exactly:

I am gonna be running a hybred T04B Garrett Turbo and it should spool very soon in the rpm range. I am hoping this will allow for me to have the low end power right there all the time.

Are you pleased with the cold starting of the 18:1?

From experience, that coupled with a loss of low end power (pre boost) make for a less than spectacular experience overall.

Couple that with the price, and that it's still 20+ year old engine technology really has me wondering why so many invest so much money in these older vehicles.


Owning a 6.5 is like having a handicapped child. It's not always easy, and it takes some extra effort. Others may look down their noses, and choose to see the flaws rather than the potential. But you love it anyway, and carry on the best you can, and beam with pride when it does well.

As far as "price"? Well, the $4500 I spent on a motor on a PAID OFF truck compares nicely to the $3700 or so in sales tax I would have had to pay just for the privlege of making $600 a month truck payments for the next 6 years, had I bought a new one.

Tim

As far as "price"? Well, the $4500 I spent on a motor on a PAID OFF truck compares nicely to the $3700 or so in sales tax I would have had to pay just for the privlege of making $600 a month truck payments for the next 6 years, had I bought a new one.
wRacer

I like that, makes pretty good sense. My truck is paid of, has been since I have started tinkering with it here and there. My truck has been sitting for the past 5 1/2 months while I made the decision on what to do with my engine situation. If I had to make a $600.00 a month payment, I would have given up by now without a doubt.

The other thing I forgot to mention...

I have 6 years invested in this truck. I'm pretty sure I know every quirk and hiccup in this particular truck. I am at a comfort level now. I know that with a 15mm deepwell socket and 36" of extentions, I can practically disasseble the entire truck in a weekend if I have to. I'd have less apprehension about taking off the intake manifold that an new truck owner would have changing a flat tire.

I know what each noise, rattle and click means, and I can tell instantly if one is missing, or something new is present. My truck talks to me

I do not want to start learning a new truck all over again. This same logic has also kept me married for 17 years.

Tim

Plus on top of that the market of used but good spares out there is huge, new parts to be had as long as military still is running Hummers powered by 6.5s & 6.2s, once they move on then will be military surplus entering the "little engine that can" world. I aint skeerd to go one on one with any stock truck out there, 6.5s have more in them than credit is given to them, just got to know your limits. On 18:1 if cold start becomes an issue; go with 60G glows or Kennedy quick heats, install manual spring loaded off, push button, to energize the glow controller and warm em up a little longer.

Thanks guys, I see your side of the coin now. And if I was in your situation, I'd likely be stuck doing the same.

My point was that I witnessed my Father do the same with his '95 Suburban. He installed a full on Avant 18:1 after a catastrophic failure of the crankshaft (sounds familiar....huh?) while driving solo down I-95. There are entirely too many completely stock 6.5's not making it past 100K miles due to crankshaft failures. And as we all know it's not like a 350 chevy that you can replace for $1200.

Had the engine system been more reliable and dependable (this isn't opinion), he would surely still have it today. GM's incentives, plus his ability to sell it at a good price made it a no-brainer.

Yes, he had the good glow plugs, and a manual glow plug button. Starting the thing was like starting an airplane. Anything below 50 degrees it was a noisy wreck until it warmed up.

I just feel that for an engine designed for ~200hp and ~400lb/ft it is fine. Turning up the wick isn't as easy as it is for the Dmax guys.

True enough, but have you priced out an (1) injector for a D-max?!:eek: Just one small example as to why I will stick with my 6.5. Besides, a couple friends of mine and I took a Dmax on a sledding road trip this winter. The stock Dmax, a 20ft enclosed trailer, 4 sleds, and our gear and I have to say I really was not impressed at all with the truck. I guess it is like comparing apples and oranges seeing as my truck isn't stock, but when you consider that the Dmax is going to run me $60K Canadian for a stocker and then throw in a few thousand $ for improvements....well, that pays for a hell of a lot of work on my ol 98. Anyway, I'm not beating up on the Dmax, because with mods they are awesome but I just can't justify spending the money that I don't have to get one. Now, if money wasn't an issue........:lol:

Hey firefighter, my 6.5 is the snow rig for my trips that my buddies and I take. They all love my truck because we get to the Upper Peninsula from chicago on one tank of fuel instead of 2. Also, the truck just pulls trailers like nothing compared to gas. I would like to hook up to a DMax and see how my 6.5 does, that would be interesting, especially now;) .

Well, I can honestly say that I took the same route in May with my 6.5 and pulling my 18ft open trailer with our antique fire truck (read: way heavier!) on it and not only did I get 3mpg better but I was also able to hold my speed going up those long hills. The Dmax was always downshifting and revving to the moon, wouldn't hold speed uphill. Again, the Dmax is stock and mine isn't, but still makes me way happy to keep my truck.):h

I am on the same page as CR and others. Truck is paid for and repair is cheaper than a new replacement. I was tempted by the incentives, employee price and 0% financing, but 600 - 700 per month made me think it was best to put the truck back on the road.

It has been about 70 degrees here today and there are no problems starting. I may run an extra block heater this winter,or park it inside for a change.

Are you pleased with the cold starting of the 18:1?

From experience, that coupled with a loss of low end power (pre boost) make for a less than spectacular experience overall.

Couple that with the price, and that it's still 20+ year old engine technology really has me wondering why so many invest so much money in these older vehicles.

Cause it's still cheaper than buying a new one and also cheaper than fixin the new ones too.

OK NOW GUYS BACK ON TOPIC LOL

OK NOW GUYS BACK ON TOPIC LOL

Geeze, sorry :rolleyes: Just trying to keep your minds open to other options.

BTW, Fixin the new ones isn't an issue until your over 100K, and at that point they'd be equally expensive to repair.

BTW, Fixin the new ones isn't an issue until your over 100K, and at that point they'd be equally expensive to repair.
When dmax injectors cost $3000??? Wrongo bongo

OK,OK, OK, lets all take a deep breath here. We all know that new trucks cost more, its the nature of the beast. New trucks=newer parts=$$$. There is no escaping the fact. But back TO THE 6.5L!!

Yup got caught up in the diversion myself my aploogies, good nudge Tie, this is a good discussion, but if you want to continue new vs old discussion lets start a new thread. Discussion within a discussion hides great info from someone not adept at using search feature that doesn't search content but just searches topic headings,

Now what were we talking about, oh yeah this is supposed to be an 18:1 post

:lol:

She is ready to drop in. Just got the 3 Bar map sensor to not freek out the computer. I cannot wait to get this think runnin:) . I need to make some black smoke. I am just hopen that I do not run out of fuel before I can get a good grin on my face:ro) .

Can't wait to hear it, see it, and get a ride in it.......BUT....I bet I make more black smoke than you will :D

So how do you get Mahle 18:1 pistons when they haven't been released yet?

I did not "buy" them, that is what is put in the engine I ordered. Call up Peninsular and ask what they install in their 18:1 Brand New 2005 AMG Short Block.

Now CR has 18:1 Mahle Pistons too, did u ask him where he got his?

So how do you get Mahle 18:1 pistons when they haven't been released yet?

Ask nicely? :lol:

Tim

Ask nicely? :lol:

Tim

Trump card:


FW:
John,
Nobody, not even the General himself has MAHLE pistons for the 18:1 CR 6.5L. We're working on several projects so there may well be rumors, but no parts have been produced by Mahle for this engine.
Regards,
Eric Grilliot

MAHLE, Inc.
Aftermarket Engineering

John, How old is that?

Tim

1:22 pm CST today is when I received it.

I have a good repoire' with Enrison, Eric, and Ray at Mahle. Had supper with Ray a few weeks back.

Don't you just love it when people don't know what they really sell...

I called peninsular and I am here to reply that I WAS WRONG. They are not a Mahle piston but a custom coated piston that Peninsular design and has built for their engine that they get. So I can confirm that I do not have Mahle's brand low compression piston.

that crow tastes better warm, dont it Adam? :joke: Did Penn. say who makes their pistons?

tim

He said he could not say. I do not know why but he said a "company". They have a part number on the top similar to that of a mahle number, I will post the number and do a little research on it too.

U have a cracked cylinder head? What is up with your ride?

So how do you get Mahle 18:1 pistons when they haven't been released yet?

Stock pistons with tops shaved, that a possibility ???

So John why does my Invoice from DAS say PISTONS MAHLE 18:1 KENNADY, and its spelled like that too?? Just want to know so i'm loaded right when i call em?:o:

the tops are not shaved, Matt up there said they are new pistons that are built for marine applications at 18:1. They have the ceramicoated tops. They are not shaved becuase theye have the number 10236527 which I think is a GM part number that comes up as a GM stock low compression piston which is why I thought it might be Mahle since that is who GM uses for pistons.

So John why does my Invoice from DAS say PISTONS MAHLE 18:1 KENNADY, and its spelled like that too?? Just want to know so i'm loaded right when i call em?:o:

My pistons are Mahle but specially modified.

When did DAS do this engine?

so, is this ebay auction misleading us?
it says 200 more for the mahle 18:1's
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/GM-6-5L-6-5-Chevy-Diesel-Engine-Pistons-Free-Shipping_W0QQitemZ7989331839QQcategoryZ33623QQssPa geNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

John, DAS is still in process with the engine, they got the short block just over a week ago i think from whoever is their supplier. It went for machining and balancing, should be putting it together on Tues and dropping it in the truck on Weds.

so, is this ebay auction misleading us?
it says 200 more for the mahle 18:1's
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/GM-6-5L-6-5-Chevy-Diesel-Engine-Pistons-Free-Shipping_W0QQitemZ7989331839QQcategoryZ33623QQssPa geNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

DOCFRANCO that is the set I have, they are Mahle Pistons, shaved & tops recoated with ceramic, look for a post of mine last month or previous one, with photos that clearly identify them as Mahles. Are shaved tops a bad thing I'm fixin to find out I guess when I get around to putting my 18:1 together

Me thinks mine started out as Mahles and someone has done some work, otherwise they couldn't say their Mahles pistons. I'm about curious as hell if they came from John though cause if they did then their probably a damn fine product!

Me thinks mine started out as Mahles and someone has done some work, otherwise they couldn't say their Mahles pistons. I'm about curious as hell if they came from John though cause if they did then their probably a damn fine product!

You will know it when you see them. None other like them.

I'd be curious to see what your caps look like too...

Unless something changed, Mahle is NOT the OEM 6.5 piston supplier either.

So from GM, what comes as a stock piston manufacturor? Who makes the GM diesel pistons for the replacement long blocks from GM?

Used to be Bahn and Zollner. Don't know about the newer models.

You will know it when you see them. None other like them.

I'd be curious to see what your caps look like too...

Well i'm not there to get pictures and i doubt they'll take any. Maybe they'll have a set on the shelf i can get a pic of...

When I bought my 18:1's from Peninsular about 4 years ago, I was told that they were factory GM blanks that had the wrist pin offset to lower the compression. They resembled factory 6.5 pistons except for the offset pin.

How have you liked the 18:1 from Pen? Have you had any problems? Are you just using a turbo master and a 3 bar map sensor?

Mine are also GM only 20 oversize. They came in a GM box with a GM number. Thirty thousand miles and everything is great. 90 % pulling a gooseneck cattle trailer. Starts like the stock pistons. I can't tell any difference. 22 thousands shorter that the stock pistons. Doesn't sound like much to me!!!!!

i think i am missing something here...

why is there a navistar diamond logo cast in the engine block?????

ahhh i noticed that too and was wondering the same thing!!!

---Ben

I was very happy with my 18:1 peninsular's. Never any piston related problems. I did spin a main bearing at 1200 miles however with 25 psi of boost. Redid the bottom end and never another problem, but I wouldn't exceed 20 psi boost. I was running a rayjay non wastegated turbo that worked very well. It was a little weak on the bottom end but started coming on strong at about 1800 rpms. I sold that engine when I caught the cummins bug.:eek:

The block does have the navistar logo, I was wondering when some one was going to catch that. This is the navistar block, heavy duty, nice casting with the revised alloy content. It is a 506 casting number with the diamond logo in the valey.