Ahoy every one! Just joined the club today and I need some advise.
I just purchased a 2002 Chevy c3500hd w/utility body. It was government owned since new.
She only has 39k miles of use. It runs fantastic . Yesterday I did an oil change and noticed it only holds about half the amount of oil than my duramax 6.6.
That got me to do a little online research on this engine because I thought they were roughly the same. Turns out there is a ton of negative info out there about the 6.5 and I'm a little freaked out. I purchased this truck for my business and plan to fill it with equipment. Being that its a true hd iwith a utility body she's gonna be heavy. I need this truck to last me years and could use some advise on how to make sure my 6.5 lasts. Also the truck only has 39k and it looks and drives like new. Is there a way to check the hours? Just wondering since it was gov owned. Thanks everyone!

 

It's an 02 with a 6.5??? Are you absolutely sure it's a 6.5 and not the dmax?!

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And if you want it to be reliable just relocate the pmd, replace heads and head gaskets if you have the bank, and service it meticulously. These are good engines if they're taken care of or else the military wouldn't still be using them in the humvees today.

 

Replace heads ??
Yes 6.5 , the 3500hd came with a 6.5 super heavy truck has older body style with the extra panel between grill and bumper. Hope you didn't mean replace the head. If so replace with what?

 

These engines will run a long time if not abused or over stressed. FYI

 

have to agree drive it like it real easy and try not to get too much boost and you will be ok

I worked a a place in 98 and they had a service truck I could drive it for months and have no problem but let some hotrodder have it for a day and i would be putting an engine in it

 

Great , thanks for the responses .My fast and furious days are long gone . I laugh every morning watching everyone hauling a** while I'm driving like grandpa. Would like to do a detailed inspection and tune up just to be sure. I was expecting to get a bit more fuel economy , about 13 city right now. Any fuel treatments or any recommendations on what to check?

 

the 6.5 is just one more engine that gm made that should not have been made I have changed out more gm engines than I would want to and I don't have much good to say about them

if you want a real truck it has 35k on it start parts saving and put in a 5.9 12v cunnins then you will have something that will last a lifetime

 

AMEN to that brother!!

 

As with any engine, the best place to start would be to free up the exhaust and make it breathe easier. You will gain efficiency, a bit of HP and TQ, and likely a little boost in mileage. Dont expect alot though.

 

I've heard a lot about the cummins swap. Haven't heard much about cost though . I think if heard a free breathing cummins under the hood of my truck I'd get a stiffy. Any idea how much custom fab is involved?