Duramax Buyer's Guide: How to Pick the Best GM Diesel Chevy runs deep and Duramax-powered GMs with Allison transmissions behind them run even deeper! All in all, ¾- and 1-ton Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierras offer what are arguably the best all-around heavy duty trucks produced by the big three.

• Duramax Lbz Specs
• Duramax Lbz Problems

Whether you’re after horsepower and torque, fuel economy, ride comfort or reliability, the Duramax-equipped rigs coming out of Detroit over the past decade and a half are tough to beat. Fair warning, these trucks generally hold their value better than Ford and even Dodge trucks of the same vintage, and the pre-emissions versions (2001 to 2007) are highly sought after. So, keep in mind that you may have to fork over $20,000 or more for an immaculate, 10-to-12-year-old truck.

2001-2004 2500 & 3500 While the first models of GM trucks to offer the Duramax engine/Allison transmission combo are aging, clean versions can still command a pretty penny. The one Achilles heel of the LB7 Duramax engine is injector failure. Sooner or later, the injectors will need to be replaced (a $3,000 to $4,000 expense depending on the shop performing the work). However, once the injector issue is addressed, the LB7 is extremely reliable. The lightweight and independent front suspension on these trucks makes obtaining 20-mpg a cinch and gives them better ride comfort than their solid front axle Ford and Dodge counterparts.

The Duramax diesel engine in your GMC was running like a champ until just a few days ago, but now you need to get your hands on a Duramax manual so you can get your vehicle back on the road again. A Duramax manual makes it easy to do your own repairs so you can spend more time behind the wheel than under the hood. The manual comes with an extensive index to help you locate the information you need quickly and accurately.

Duramax Lbz Specs

Duramax Lbz Problems

You can also gain access to handy diagnostic charts that help you make sense of the engine components you are working with. Wiring diagrams are also included within the pages of a Duramax manual, and these come in handy when it is time to check engine spark plugs and wire efficiency. The paperback design means that you can easily stow your book in the glove compartment or under the seat, so you can have it with you whenever you are on the road. Find a new or used Duramax manual within the vast inventory on eBay.