The Truth be told... some woke up and smelled the coffee...

['956Wheel]

Steve, You MUST have dissimular metals when movement is involved. . if not gauling will occur. This is why aluminum blocks are sleeved. Lawnmowers, chainsaws and such are the few exceptions.



Mike

 

[Steve Roseman]

Mike,

I understand the differences in the metals, it was always my understanding pistons are aluminum for weight reduction and heat dissipation.

My only problem is I keep hearing about the Duramax's heads being aluminum as if it were a sin.

Believe me, I would much rather have the cast heads like we have on our Cummins. The aluminum heads w/cast block can cause problems over time, especially with poor maintenance of the cooling system.

In my opinion the Cummins is a better motor without a doubt, I just wish I could hear more about the Duramax besides predictions about aluminum heads.

I'm not wanting to ruffle any feathers, just up for some intelligent discussion.

 

[ScooterH]

Anyone heard of any Duramax's breaking cranks?

A trailor dealer here in Ohio, who also installs replacement decks, told me about 2 of his customers with Duramax's that have broken their crankshafts. I know that no engine manufacturer is immune to problems like this. Cummins, Cat , Mack, all have bad crank's, cams, pistons on occasion. Just wondering if anyone else has heard of this problem?

 

[BK]

Steve,

The only thing I can find Cummins to say about the pistons and changes regarding heat is

"ISB takes durability to a new level. A symmetrical piston bowl delivers more even heat dispersion for longer piston life"

Noth'n about going to aluminum.



I've checked all my Cummins literature and can't find the info. .



since the ISB is a parent bore design, I don't see how they could run aluminum pistons. I thought a sleeved designed or aluminum block was needed to do that.



I've sent an email and email to Cummins to find out...





Bob

 

[BK]

Got a reply back from Cummins about our Pistions...

Here's the guts of the email...



"Thanks for your E-mail message. We apologize for our delay in responding.



What is the piston metal? -------------------aluminum

Is there a difference between the 12V and 24V models?--------  shape of piston bowl at top is different   



ISB offers 4 valves per cylinder design.   This allows for a freer breathing system for better combustion and improved performance.   The ISB engine offers vertically-centered injection for an even spray of fuel in the piston bowl.   This helps us lower emissions, improve durability and lengthen service intervals.   "



Not that I need to tell you Steve, but you were on the ball!

Just for those that weren't soo sure , like myself...





Bob

 

[Steve Roseman]

Thanks Bob,

To the best of my knowledge, every internal combustion motor being made uses some sort of aluminum alloy for piston material. You were in doubt and did the right thing by researching the subject, instead of blindly arguing.

I know when the Duramax was first introduced there was a lot of talk about the aluminum heads but no real facts of failure. Like I have said, in my opinion the Cummins is by far the better motor. I just would rather hear facts than rumors or predictions.

I think 5 or 10 years down the road we will be able to know more, by then my Cummins will be broke in and the others will probably be broke down . Just a little brand loyalty humor there.

 

[BK]

'welcome Steve... thank you...



Sometimes I'm thick headed , sometimes I'm not...

When I'm not sure, I'd like to know for sure...



Thanks for bringing it up.



The reason I bought my Dodge was the Cummins, if Ford had it I probably would bought the Ford. (I do like their front end better)



But I do like the looks of the Dodge, I have very few complaints, nothings perfect.



And all of that is now put into perspective...



9 -11- 01



'nough said.





Bob



Afganastan... here we come.

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