The Design Concept of the Duramax 6600 Diesel Engine 2001-01-2703
A new Diesel engine, called the Duramax 6600 (Fig.1), has been designed by Isuzu Motors (Isuzu) for an upcoming full-size General Motors (GM) pickup truck. It incorporates the latest Diesel technology in order to improve on the inherent strengths of a Diesel engine, such as fuel economy, torque and reliability, while also producing higher output, smoother driveability, and lower noise. The Duramax 6600 is an entirely new 90° V8 direct injection (DI) intercooled engine with a water-cooled turbocharger. Its fuel injection system employs a fully electronically controlled common rail system that has high-pressure injection capabilities.
Isuzu had the design responsibility of the base engine, while GM Truck Group was responsible for designing the installation and packaging within the vehicle. Engine validation relied on Isuzu's proven validation process, in addition to GM Powertrain's expertise in engine validation. Engine calibration work in the vehicle was undertaken by a joint team of Isuzu, GM Powertrain and GM Truck Group personnel, which reflects how the engine was born as a complete collaboration of the three organizations.
Engine production was started in the summer of 2000 at DMAX, Ltd. (Fig. 2), a new Isuzu and GM joint venture located in Moraine, Ohio.
