The Top 4 Most Popular Diesel Engines in Trucking History
The word "diesel” may bring to mind the expensive fuel button at the gas station that you never dare to push. For others, though, diesel is a lifestyle, and a means to productivity. Famously efficient and tough, good diesel powertrains deliver more power than their gas-engine counterparts. And while new electric-powered pickups are making waves, there are still some who continue to seek out reliable, old-fashioned used diesel trucks.
But not all diesel trucks are created equal. In fact, some, like the Ford Power Stroke diesel powertrains, over 10 years old, were critically panned—and didn’t do much for the consumer, either. With that in mind, let’s look at some of the most popular, reliable, and celebrated diesel engines in trucking history.
We won’t be covering every diesel engine or the most influential ones, necessarily. We’ll also be omitting the 5.7-L HEMI engine, despite its popularity in vehicles like Jeeps, due to a very common problem known as “HEMI tick” attributed to serious mechanical issues, like lifter-bearing failure. Rather, we’re focusing on the best-selling and best-performing engines that make tough, hard-working trucks even more capable. And if you're in the market for a diesel truck, visit us at Jay Hatfield Chevrolet, located here in Vinita, OK, and let our knowledgeable sales team show you our impressive selection of diesel trucks capable of handling all your work needs.
Chrysler's 3.0-L EcoDiesel Engine
This ultra-strong diesel engine, named the 3.0-L EcoDiesel by Chrysler or the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel by the popular truck brand, is small but capable. This engine premiered in 2014 and was made available for multiple vehicles, including some unexpected inclusions like the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. While this is one of the rare light-duty diesel engines you can find today, it offers excellent fuel economy and very low emissions. In fact, their relative rarity may lend to their popularity among diesel enthusiasts.
Notable features include its cooled diesel exhaust catalyst exhaust gas recirculation and excellent particulate filter, responsible for those well-rated emissions. But, don’t mistake its efficiency for low power. When installed in a Ram 1500, it delivers 420 lb-ft of torque and up to 9,200 lbs of towing. How is it so powerful yet lightweight? Give credit to its smartly engineered high-pressure common rail fuel injection, among other features.
Take note, though, that previous problems plagued these engines and even led to a famous recall in 2019. The oil coolers cracked and leaked fluid into the cooling system, which led to “thermal fatigue.” While EcoDiesels produced since 2020 have reportedly addressed these problems, it’s still wise to avoid Ram or Jeep diesel models before 2020, which may come with costly repair needs.
Cummins 6.7-L Diesel Engine
The 24-valve, 6.7-L Cummins diesel is one of the more popular diesel engines because of its sheer power potential. Capable of up to 856 lb-ft of torque at 1,700 rpm, hardworking drivers who need even harder-working trucks often ask for a Cummins engine by name. Ram has partnered with Cummins for over 30 years, thanks to its famously powerful pairing.
While this isn’t as lightweight or eco-conscious as the EcoDiesel engine, a Cummins engine primarily focuses on power. Its extremely capable pressure pump and compacted graphite iron block make this engine hardy and help it wind up extreme power. Find it in models like the 2019 Ram, alongside used Dodge models.
Some models can tow over 35,000 lbs, making use of the Cummins’ sheer output potential. There are currently 2 versions of this diesel engine for 2022 Rams: the Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 and the High Output alternative. While the High-Output model loses horsepower, reducing on-road speed, it gains tremendous torque, towing, and payload figures.
Ford's 6.7-L Power Stroke Engine
The next entry by Ford is another popular diesel engine—specifically, the 6.7-L model produced directly from Ford, which premiered in 2011. Its tough block and cylinder heads, plus forged-steel pistons, enable serious power. Most notable is its competitive horsepower ratings, producing as much as 475 horses for some F-150 models.
While many diesel powertrains sacrifice horsepower to focus on torque and towing/payload capacities, the 6.7-L Power Stroke refuses to limit speed. That means great truck performance, whether or not you’re putting your truck to work.
Piston-cooling jets and cold weather-friendly glow plugs are both important for the engine's longevity, while its torque ratings, as high as 1,050 lb-ft, in some models, defy expectations. Although its current figures are worth celebrating, just be sure not to seek out older iterations of the Power Stroke, such as the heavier and less dependable 6.4-L version that drew a negative response.
However, there are also many reported issues with Ford F-150 models equipped with the 6.7-L Power Stroke diesel engine. Take special care when shopping for Power Strokes in model years before 2020. These engines frequently experienced injection pump failure that led to extremely expensive repairs.
General Motors’ Duramax Engine
Refined, powerful, and affordable, the Duramax engine by General Motors has made waves since its introduction in 1998. While initially focused on power and quiet performance, more recent models have delivered best-in-class fuel economy ratings as well. Standout versions of the Duramax include the 2006-2007 model, the LBZ, which featured a stronger block, more resilient cylinder heads, and a reduced compression ratio of 16.8:1, among other upgrades.
The latest Duramax engines are responsible for powering Chevy trucks without limiting fuel economy or degrading performance figures. For example, the 2022 Silverado 1500 with the 3.0-L Duramax Turbodiesel I-6 can produce up to 460 lb-ft of torque and tow up to 13,300 lbs. While the alternative 6.2-L EcoTec V8 gas engine can manage these figures while also attaining high horsepower ratings, the Duramax-equipped Silverado 1500 has superior fuel economy. You’ll get up to 26 MPG (miles per gallon) combined with rear-wheel drive or 24 MPG combined for four-wheel drive. These are highly competitive figures and must-haves for staying productive without racking up high fuel costs.
The 6.6-L Duramax diesel engine is even stronger, which is available for models like the 2022 Silverado 3500HD. Connected to efficient yet performance-boosting Allison transmission, this powertrain generates an insane 910 lb-ft of torque, plus towing power as high as 36,000 lbs! There’s no job too tough for a heavy-duty Silverado with this unbeatable powertrain.
Duramax diesel engines are also available on the Tahoe, Suburban, and numerous popular vehicles throughout the Chevrolet lineup. Drivers who want the best that diesel has to offer should seek out new or used models with the Duramax powertrain. Not sure which Duramax-equipped model is best for you? Just ask us, and we'll be happy to help narrow down your best options.
Find the Best Diesel Trucks at Jay Hatfield Chevrolet
Are you interested in the best diesel trucks that the auto world has to offer? Explore new, used, and Certified Pre-Owned models at Jay Hatfield Chevrolet. Located in Vinita, OK, we proudly serve all of Oklahoma with the most generous deals on quality pickup trucks.
Our selection includes Duramax diesel-equipped Silverado trucks for the greatest combination of power, fuel economy, and driving performance you can find. Plus, Chevy’s diesel trucks are always competitively priced, even if you pursue the popular heavy-duty models like the Silverado 2500HD. Shop new to take home the latest engineering and technology that Chevrolet has to offer, or shop used to get a reliable model at a great price. Or, for the perfect balance of quality and recent year features, choose a Certified Pre-Owned Chevy! Our CPO models are thoroughly inspected, repaired, and ready for a new owner. Plus, you can enjoy the protection of a Chevrolet warranty!
If you have any questions about models in our selection, get in touch with us at jayhatfieldchevroletvinita.com. You can explore our models, filter by certain model details (like a Duramax diesel engine), or even shop by price. Then, you can value your trade-in and even apply for financing—all from the comfort of your home! Of course, you can also test-drive a vehicle at our convenient Vinita, OK, dealership. Stop by to check out the power of Duramax today; we’re proud of what Chevrolet engineering can do.