Buried in another thread on the forum, is the potential for a pretty informative discussion, one that may affect the purchasing decision of many current and future truck owners.
The question? Which is the better Detroit engine today for a typical 80K or less trucking operation? The DD13 or the DD15?
Both engines are more than capable of operating at 80K Gross.
DD15
- Horsepower: 450-505
- Torque: 1250-1750
- Horsepower: 350-505
- Torque: 1250-1850
- 200 pounds less than the DD15
Given the basic numbers: Horsepower and Torque, the number favor the smaller DD13 due to the increased torque capability. In addition to that, the DD13 weighs less, potentially increasing your payload.
How about some real world numbers from the membership here (if you are a guest, register and post your numbers). What are you seeing in terms of fuel economy? Which engine looks to stand up the best in terms of long term maintenance costs (including potentially costly emissions repairs)?
Large displacement engines seemed to become the normal for a while, as they were needed to compensate for failed emissions technology. Has the time now come that the emissions technology has finally caught up and we are able to once again operate more efficiently with smaller engines? Smaller engines did fine in the pre-emissions days, why not now?
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