How Much Does a Duramax Engine Weight? Revealed!

The Duramax diesel engine is a favorite since it came to the market in 2001. The Duramax engine family has exceptional power and torque values. These engines are often used in large pickup trucks and often carry large weights. That’s why their weight is important.

So, how much does a Duramax engine weigh? It depends on the displacement and number of cylinders. V8 Duramax engines weigh 835 lbs, while I4 and I6 engines weigh between 520 and 450 lbs.

The weight of the engine is often thought of as a less important detail. But, it is often said that the weight of the engine is more important than the available horsepower. Why is engine weight so important, and where do Duramax engines come in this? Stay with us for more info!

Understanding Duramax Engines

The Duramax engine has been in production for over 20 years. It is designed for trucks but is in use in pickups, medium-duty trucks, and vans. The Duramax V8 engine family has 6 engine variations. 

Through the development, the sheer value of hp and torque almost doubled. The first Duramax engine has 235 horsepower and 500 torque. Now they have 445 horsepower and 900 lb-ft torque.

Chevrolet is using these engines in Kodiak’s and Silverado trucks. GM is using them in Topkick, Savannah, Sierra HD, and Yukon. Most of these vehicles are using these engines in all model years from 2001. That also says a lot about every Duramax engine and its reliability.

Features of Duramax Engines

All Duramax engines are turbocharged, the blocks are made of cast iron, and the cylinder heads are made from aluminum. The latest L5P engine has a new turbocharger coming from Borg Warner. It successfully upgraded the old Garett turbocharger.

All models before L5P use the Bosch CP3 injection pump. The latest L5P engine introduced some major improvements, like a new Denso HP4 lift pump. That way, the engine gets new fueling capabilities. It is also relieving stress from the main high-pressure fuel pump.

Types of Duramax Engines

The most popular line of Duramax engines are V8s, and they have 6 engine variations. They were produced in 2001 and are still in production.

• LB7 (2001-2004)
• LLY (2004-2006)
• LBZ (2006-2007)
• LMM (2007-2010)
• LML (2011-2016)
• L5P (2017-present).

There are also smaller L-4 and L-6 engines. These engines are newer and are produced from the year 2011.

• XLD 25 (2011-present)
• XLD 28 (2012-present)
• LWN (2014-present)
• LM2 (2019-present).

How Much Does a Duramax Engine Weigh?

Depending on displacement and the number of cylinders, Duramax engines weigh between 450 lbs and 835 lbs. 

Weight of the Duramax Engine 6.6L V8 and Engine 2.8L L4

All V8 engines weigh 835 pounds. L-4 engines weigh between 450-520 pounds, while an L-6 weighs 467 pounds.

Comparison with Other Diesel Engines

Diesel engines are usually heavier than gasoline engines. Most of them still weigh less than 600 pounds.

Check Out Weight Matters: How Much Does a Duramax Engine Weigh?:

Factors Affecting the Weight of Duramax Engines

The most affecting factors for the Duramax engine weight are their sheer size, configuration, and materials used for production. These engines are heavy, but they provide a lot. They can carry large loads and they can tow. Without a heavy engine, that wouldn’t be possible.

Materials Used in the Engine’s Construction

Engines are made from aluminum or cast iron. Duramax diesel engines are made from cast iron, which is raising their overall weight. There are disputes about materials used for engine blocks, but there are some obvious pluses when it comes to iron blocks:

• They are stronger. They can stand up to a higher internal pressure
• They produce more power. When compared to aluminum counterparts, they will produce more hp
• Easy to customize. This is an important feature of every Duramax diesel engine. Owners often invest a lot in new and improved parts over better characteristics. They will attempt to find new ways to improve their Duramax engine.

Check Out Engine Construction Components & Materials:

Engine Size and Configuration

Engine size is one of the biggest factors affecting engine weight. Larger V8 engines are going to be heavier. Dimensions of the Duramax engine are 30x30x32 inches. A larger V8 Duramax engine weight is over 800 lbs. That is a big and heavy engine. That size and weight allow it to have that much hp and to be able to tow larger loads.

Other L-4 and L-6 Duramax diesel engines have smaller displacements (2.8L compared to 6.6L), affecting their size and weight. These engines are almost 40% lighter when compared to other V8 engines from the Duramax family.

Importance of Engine Weight

Engine weight impacts engine performance, fuel economy, and overall handling. It doesn’t have a direct say in truck towing capacity but can improve it with its large hp output.

Impact on Vehicle’s Overall Weight and Performance

The engine’s weight doesn’t directly impact the vehicle’s performance. A better way to determine the power of the engine is by looking at power to weight ratio. In reality, lower engine weight can offer a bit better performance. 

Fuel Efficiency

Lighter engines also tend to have better handling and fuel autonomy.

Towing Capacity

Several factors impact the towing capacity. The most important is horsepower and torque. The engine size and weight doesn’t directly affect towing capacity. There are other elements on the vehicle, like the brakes and how strong the chassis.

FAQs

Final Considerations

Diesel engines are generally heavier than gasoline engines. The main factors that impact the weight are the engine disposition, the material used for the block, and the number of cylinders. Heavier engines tend to have more power and longer life. 

Engine weight impacts the fuel economy and overall performance. It is a good thing to know your engine weight because you can better understand how the car handles on the road. Knowing what your car can handle and do can be lifesaving knowledge.