In 2001 GM replaced the outdated Detroit Diesel 6.5L when they debuted the Duramax LB7. Development of the LB7 began in 1997 when General Motors and Isuzu Motors paired up to create DMAX Ltd and after just over three years, the state-of-the-art 6.6L V8 with four valves per cylinder was ready to be unveiled. At the time, the LB7 Duramax was considered revolutionary, featuring a turbocharger, intercooler, and direct-injection that helped it achieve segment-leading 300hp and 520 lb-ft of torque. Two of the biggest highlights for the LB7 was the use of common rail technology developed by Bosch and Aluminum cylinder heads, which was another innovative feature since the lightweight alloy was typically not found on top of a diesel engine. Along with the LB7, GM introduced the Allison 1000 which was arguably the first automatic transmission in its class worthy of being mated to a diesel. In addition to the Allison 5-speed automatic transmission, buyers could also select a ZF 6-speed manual, but the Allison was the more popular option.

As innovative as GM’s new engine platform initially appeared, the LB7 was plagued with fuel injector issues. Injector failures were so frequent that GM eventually recalled the original units and replaced them with an updated design. The factory warranty was also extended to cover the new injectors for a period of 7 years or 200,000 miles. The LB7 trucks were also plagued with other issues such as weak tie rod ends, and the the potential for catastrophic engine damage if the harmonic balancer dowel pin sheared. Like all early 2000’s trucks, the GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado are vulnerable to rust on the body, frame, and the brake and fuel lines.

While the Allison Automatic Transmission was one of the best aspects of the LB7, there were plenty of other factors that made it successful. An independent front suspension provided the truck with a smooth and comfortable ride and the common rail fuel system with a CP3 pump proved to be a great addition to the truck. The LB7 also provided customers with different styling choices such as the ’01-’02 Silverado, ’03-’04 Silverado, or GMC Sierra.

If you are looking to improve the performance of your LB7 or maintain its factory function, Cyberpunk Diesel is sure to have what you need. Simple upgrades like a Cold Air Intake System will help you get more airflow to your engine. An exhaust system is another common upgrade that will allow you to customize the sound of your truck while also increasing engine performance. A chip, module, tuner, or programmer will make a night and day difference when it comes to increasing horsepower and torque. Cyberpunk Diesel also offers stock replacement components for your vehicle as well. Since the LB7 Duramax is prone to injector issues, Cyberpunk Diesel has Fuel Injectors, Injector Lines, and Lift Pumps to keep your fuel system functioning as it should. Whether your goal is to just keep your LB7 Duramax on Cyberpunk Diesel.