Alaska to the Lower 48 - will my DMax make it?

[Dmace]

No dpf in a 03.

Chris

Completely missed the 03 part. Still, look for an exhaust leak pre-muffler.

[crashz]

A little extra smoke could be the start of failing injectors. They seem to cavitate at the needle/seat area, and extra smoke is usually the first sign. The next signs are diminshed mileage, then "making oil" (the injectors leak enough to begin filling the crankcase with diesel and mixing with the engine oil). Most people are surprised when they see the oil level rise and oil pressure drop, but they also usually choose to ignore the billowing smoke from the tail pipe.

That wouldn't stop me though. If your mileage is still good, the injectors are probably not worn enough to even change your return rates. The amount of fuel return is what GM uses to determine failing injectors (enough return = good injectors, low return = failed). You could always have your dealer check this prior to the trip.

I'd change out the fluids & filters and go for it. Check your oil level daily or more and keep an eye on pressure while on the road.

[rockshaft]

I may have a load you could haul for me! maybe you could haul a double trailer?

[AKfish]

The red bottle Power Service (911) is ONLY for fuel that's already gelled. Your not using it on a regular basis, right?

Other than that, it sounds like the truck is up for the task. I would certainly go through it checking all the fluids, brakes, replace air filter and bring a bottle of Power Service (white-for every tank) and (red-for emergencies). Also, look for an exhaust leak before the dpf, that may be your extra diesel smell.

I had a late-in-the-season fuel delivery to the farm and didn't use very much before it turned cold. And with the change in seasons; condensation is more common.

So, I hit all my fuel sources with the "Red" Power Service!

I rarely ever use it... white bottle with every tank delivery, though.

AKfish

[AKfish]

Most people are surprised when they see the oil level rise and oil pressure drop, but they also usually choose to ignore the billowing smoke from the tail pipe.

That wouldn't stop me though. If your mileage is still good, the injectors are probably not worn enough to even change your return rates. The amount of fuel return is what GM uses to determine failing injectors (enough return = good injectors, low return = failed). You could always have your dealer check this prior to the trip.

Not even close to those kind of symptoms!!! I'm ON THAT fuel return rate check; ASAP! Thanks.

AKfish

[GreatWhitehunter]

I knew he was being ironic by the two serious issues comment. I do have one question for ya AK. Why you going to a BP over the GN?

Matt

[crbr]

I'm planning to drive down the Al-Can Hwy and pick up a new 20' (23' OAL) 14K bumper pull trailer in early June. Driving back at the end of June with a 3pt 60 gallon sprayer, manure spreader, plastic baling twine, silage bale wrap, stall mats, heated horse waterer.

No real idea of total weight just yet... or it the load will all fit on the space available. However, flexibility and adaptability is paramount - so, I'll haul what I can!!

Nonetheless, I'm not sure if my DuraMax will make it for a 7th trip... It's an '03 with ~135K miles and has had 2 serious breakdowns... one, a transmission cooler line seeping and a rear axle seal! Consistent low 20's mpg on the highway and 10-14mpg towing. Otherwise, the valve covers look just like the day I drove it home.

I thought that I might be having injector problems 'cause there was more smoke than I recalled and more diesel odor. But, it fires right up and has never failed to start even at minus -35F. Towed a 1,200lb load with my 4,700lb goose neck trailer last week and only used 1/4 tank @ 138 miles. So, the mileage is still reasonable; I think.

Might have been a slug or two of the red, bottle Power Service in all my fuel tanks that made for all the stink!

Maybe I should be seriously considering an Eco-Max or some other truck..??

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

AKfish

Recanting your statement; the 2003 has the LB7 engine. Inherent and probable fuel injector / pump failure. It's a known and documented issue. At 135K miles, you're overdue. I hope it never happens but the likelihood is more than minimal, but your mileage may vary. Not being negative, just saying what I know. Been down that (injector) road four times.

[deerefan]

There is only one way to know for sure. Try it. You should be fine.

[Cat_Driver]

I had 2 NEW Dmax's and I couldn't trust them to go to get groceries let alone Alaska.
the 2004 had know overheating issues and GM acted dumb. I've never given GM a dime since.

[deerefan]

I had 2 NEW Dmax's and I couldn't trust them to go to get groceries let alone Alaska.
the 2004 had know overheating issues and GM acted dumb. I've never given GM a dime since.

Everyone has a vehicle at some point that just stinks. My 05 Z71 was one. Waited a few years and now have two chevrolets, a traverse and silverado. Great vehicles so far. The dmax at work has been great. We just broke 100k miles and have replaced one alternator and a u joint. Been a great truck.