Looking for a SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE (for Chevrolet Silverado/GMC HD trucks)? Here’s a detailed, well‑structured overview of options, specs, pros/cons, and buying tips tailored to your needs:
What’s a SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE?
The SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE turbo‑diesel used in HD GM trucks from mid‑2007 to 2010.
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Output: ~365 hp @ 3,200 rpm, ~660 lb‑ft torque @ 1,600 rpm .
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Construction: Cast iron block, aluminum heads, Bosch high‑pressure injection (CP3.3 pump), Garrett water‑cooled variable‑vane turbocharger. Compression ratio 16.8:1 .
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Emissions Gear: Features DPF, EGR, DOC, DEF (in some markets)
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Notable Weakness: Pistons are known to crack under heavy load .
Available for Purchase? Where & Approximate Prices
a. Remanufactured/Crate Long‑Block
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Choate Performance sells a remanufactured long-block crate engine (2007.5–2010) with new internals, warranties, machining, etc., for $12,700
b. Used Engines (Budsautoparts)
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Genuine OEM LMM engine: around $5,295, with “Best Offer” .
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Used assemblies (~198 k miles): approximately $6,079 .
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Tested engine (~93 k miles): about $4,949, includes 90‑day warranty and free shipping .
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Units in Canada: ~C$5,562 (≈ US$4,200–4,600).
Reliability & Community Feedback
Many SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE owners report long engine life with minimal major issues:
Another user notes:
Comparison At-a-Glance
Option | Price (USD) | Pros | Cons |
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Remanufactured long‑block | ~$12,700 | New components, warranty | Costly (~2–3× used cost) |
Used low‑mile tested engine | ~$5,000–6,000 | Budget-friendly, tested | Unknown wear, limited warranty |
Used high‑mile assembly | ~$4,000–5,000 | Cheapest upfront | Higher risk of wear, rebuild may follow |
Buying Tips
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Prioritize engine condition over price—a tested, lower‑mile unit often offers better value than a cheaper high‑mile one.
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Request warranty terms whenever possible. Listings offering 90‑day coverage add peace of mind.
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Factor in shipping, import duties, and whether you’ll need core return charges.
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Check VIN code (8th digit = “6”) to ensure LMM compatibility if picking from another vehicle
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Consider piston cracking risk if towing or hauling heavily; plan preventative maintenance.
Summary
If budget permits and you want reliability with coverage, the $12,700 crate engine offers peace of mind with new internals.
On a tighter budget, a used tested unit (~$5K) is a solid compromise.
Despite being over a decade old, many of these engines have run past 400k – 500k miles reliably
SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE Applications
The SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE was used in the following models:
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2007.5–2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / 3500HD
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2007.5–2010 GMC Sierra 2500HD / 3500HD
This engine was introduced to comply with updated emissions regulations and is found in GMT900 platform trucks (not GMT800). It’s distinguishable from earlier SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE by its emissions hardware and slightly modified tuning.
LMM vs. Other Duramax Generations
Engine | Years | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Key Features |
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LB7 | 2001–2004 | 300 hp | 520 | No EGR, 1st gen |
LLY | 2004.5–2006 | 310 hp | 605 | EGR added |
LBZ | 2006–2007 | 360 hp | 650 | Performance favorite |
LMM | 2007.5–2010 | 365 hp | 660 | DPF, EGR, DOC |
LML | 2011–2016 | 397 hp | 765 | SCR system |
L5P | 2017–present | 445 hp | 910 | Major redesign |
SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE vs. LBZ: The LBZ and LMM engines share much of the same architecture, but the LMM adds a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), which can restrict performance unless deleted. The LMM was also detuned slightly to reduce emissions.
Known Problems With the SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE (And What to Watch Out For)
Even though the SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE is reliable, it does have a few weak points:
Pistons
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Factory cast pistons are known to crack under high boost or extreme towing conditions.
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Fix: Upgrade to forged pistons during rebuilds if planning heavy mods or towing.
DPF Issues
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Diesel Particulate Filter can clog, especially with lots of short trips.
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Fix: Regular regeneration, delete kits (where legal), or switching to a high-flow exhaust.
EGR System
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Exhaust Gas Recirculation can cause excessive soot buildup, poor throttle response, or cooling system leaks.
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Fix: EGR delete kits, or cleaning every 100k miles (check local emissions laws).
Water Pump Leaks
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Common after ~150k miles.
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Fix: Replace with updated OEM or upgraded high-flow pump.
Glow Plug Failures
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Particularly in cold climates.
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Fix: Replace glow plugs every 100k or sooner in harsh environments.
Should You Rebuild or Buy Used?
If your current engine is having issues, you have 3 main choices:
Option | Cost | Time | Pros | Cons |
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Used Engine Swap | $4,000–$6,000 | 1–2 days | Quick install, budget-friendly | May inherit old problems |
Rebuild Your Engine | $5,000–$10,000+ | 1–2 weeks | Keep original block, upgraded parts | Longer downtime |
Buy Reman/Crate Engine | $10,000–$14,000 | 1–2 days | New internals, warranty | Most expensive |
If your current SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE block is still good, rebuilding it with upgraded internals (forged pistons, ARP studs, new cam, etc.) can result in a longer-lasting powerplant than a used one. However, buying a remanufactured long block gives peace of mind if time is critical.
Best Places to Buy a SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE
Here are reputable online and regional sellers:
Holders Diesel Performance
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Offers full Choate Performance long blocks with extensive upgrades and a warranty.
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Price: ~$12,700
DmaxStore
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Offers upgraded LMM performance engines.
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Also has injectors, turbos, and other parts for LMMs.
eBay
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Private and professional sellers offer complete engines, often with free shipping.
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Search for “Duramax SILVERADO 6.6L LMM ENGINE” — check seller rating and warranty terms.
LKQ / Salvage Yards
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Used engines pulled from wrecked HD trucks.
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Price varies: $3,000–$5,000 depending on miles.
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Check for VIN match (8th digit = “6” for LMM).
Common Upgrades After Purchase
If you’re buying a used or rebuilt LMM engine, these are smart add-ons or replacements:
Part | Why Upgrade? |
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Turbocharger | Upgrade to 64mm+ for better towing & response. |
CP3 Fuel Pump | Upgrade to high-flow CP3.4 or twin CP3 kits for tuning. |
ARP Head Studs | Replace OEM bolts to avoid head gasket issues. |
Forged Pistons | Prevent piston cracking under hard loads. |
EGR Delete / Block Off | Improves airflow & longevity (check emissions legality). |
Upgraded Intercooler | Cools intake charge more efficiently, especially when tuned. |
These upgrades significantly increase reliability, especially when tuning beyond stock.
Diagnostics Before Buying a Used Engine
If you’re inspecting a used engine (in person or via photos/inspection report), look for:
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Mileage — <150,000 miles is ideal.
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Compression Test — Results should be even across all 8 cylinders (ideally 350–450 psi).
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Oil Condition — No metal flakes, milky oil, or burnt smell.
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Turbo Shaft Play — Minimal axial play; excessive movement = turbo wear.
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Cylinder Wall Condition — Look for crosshatching or signs of scoring.
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Injector Balance Rates — Should be within ±4 on a Tech II or similar scanner.
Installation Considerations
Installing a Duramax engine is no small task, so factor in these points:
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LMM engines use 6-speed Allison 1000 transmissions, so ensure compatibility.
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ECM/TCM reprogramming may be needed if you’re doing an engine swap into a different model year.
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Ensure fuel system is flushed, especially if a previous failure involved fuel contamination.
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Upgrade radiator and cooling system if you‘re towing regularly.
A skilled diesel shop can install an engine in 2–4 days, assuming no fabrication or wiring changes are needed.
Final Thoughts Is It Worth It?
The 6.6L LMM Duramax is a workhorse engine that offers:
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Solid torque for towing
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Broad community support
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Strong aftermarket upgrade paths
Though it’s 15+ years old, many LMMs on the road today have 300,000–500,000+ miles, with stock internals — showing impressive reliability.
If you’re considering rebuilding or replacing yours, it comes down to your budget vs. your goals:
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Go used if you’re on a budget and can verify its condition.
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Go remanufactured if you want long-term peace of mind.
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Go rebuilt with upgrades if you’re pushing power, towing heavy, or want longevity.
Suggested Listings
Here are a few listings currently online (prices may vary):
Seller | Product | Price (USD) | Warranty |
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eBay (low-mile) | Used 6.6 LMM engine (93k mi) | $4,949 | 90-day |
eBay (tested) | LMM Duramax complete | $5,295 | 90-day |
Holders Diesel | Choate long block (new) | $12,700 | Yes |
LKQ Auto Parts | Used pullout engine | ~$4,500 | Limited |
DmaxStore | Upgraded crate motor | ~$13,000+ | Yes |