6.5 Optimizer towing expectations?

FixxerAutomotive said:

Hello,
I am having issues finding information on the towing capabilities of the 6.5 Optimizer. I currently have a 96 K2500 and a 10616# GVWR 5th wheel. My 6.5 diesel is finally done at 225,000 miles (intake valve is sticking, low oil pressure, uses a gallon of coolant a month, uses a quart of oil per tank of fuel, and the turbo is failing). I am looking at a complete Optimizer remanned engine to drop in as a replacement. I know that they are supposed to be better than what i have now- better block casting and better heads... But the question is what can a guy expect to be able to tow with one of these? I know that with my current setup, my 6.5 has all the power i need to tow a single car on a car trailer, but i have to keep one eye on my water gauge all the time. Have any of you towed heavy with an Optimizer? How did it go?
Thanks,
Derek

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OkDually said:

The Optimizer is just an improved cast engine block. Different Metallurgy that makes it less prone to cracking than the early cast GM blocks

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OkDually said:

Tow ratings for the K2500 should be close to:

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
8,600 lbs.
Front Gross Axle Weight Rating
4,250 lbs.
Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating
6,000 lbs.
Max Trailer Weight
10,000 lbs.

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FixxerAutomotive said:

Yeah, So if you have one of these under the hood, can a guy tow with confidence without worrying about hurting the engine as much? I've always really taken it easy on mine because i know it isn't a very strong engine.

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bk95td said:

With that much $ in the engine, I would put a new radiator and fan clutch in it.

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FixxerAutomotive said:

Here is the engine i picked out: 6500 Optimizer

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Info: - Us Engine Production

I bought a long block from these people about two months ago and it has been a horrible experience . I paid $3700.00 for a "new" long block which was supposed to be dyno tested and have ALL new internals. I paid an ASE Certified Master Mechanic to install it. From initial startup it has had low...

www.dieselplace.com

OkDually said:

I hope you haven't purchased that engine from them. There are many,many thread on US engine productions and the customer no service and issues with their products.
Here are just a couple of examples:

Info: - Us Engine Production

I bought a long block from these people about two months ago and it has been a horrible experience . I paid $3700.00 for a "new" long block which was supposed to be dyno tested and have ALL new internals. I paid an ASE Certified Master Mechanic to install it. From initial startup it has had low...

www.dieselplace.com

US engine productions motors

If you have already purchased the engine from them then I wish you good luck and hope it doesn't give you any issues

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Tommygunner said:

7600 for a rebuilt 6.5??? Robbery! You can get a brand new authentic GEP Optimizer for the same price.
Unique Diesel is a site vendor. They do stand behind their products with a lot of experience in 6.5s

GM 6.5 Diesel Engine - New Replacement Longblock Side Mount Turbo 6.5L Optimizer

www.udgmtruck.com

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