Diesel Motors?

Question

I have a 1966 3/4 ton GMC pickup. I'm thinking about going Diesel. Which Diesel is best and fit in my truck?

Answer 1

GM makes the Detroit 6.5,6.2and 6.8 and will almost bolt right in the frame mounts will need to be changed to a later model (73-81)standard GM(there are two different height frames) The fuel lines will need to be changed to a 3/8-1/2"(depending on engine)The behind the seat tank will probably be changed to under body.That also gives more cab room. most of the wiring should be similar to gas except the fuel cut off will be substituted for the ignition less the resistor wire.You will need a LARGER radiator and probably some under-hood body and support mods. A turbo 400 or later 700R4 tyranny's are available(cable instead of vacuum modulator change over kits available.

Answer 2

Damn, thats a pretty old pickup. How I wouldn't quite know which would be the best bolt up, but your best bet would be first reseaching the GMC trucks around that given year, and what Diesel engines they had.

Then you need to look at the compatibility with the transmission you have. Also don't forget that many older GM's have engines that can swap from one car brand to another with ease (ie, Buick, Chevy, Pontiac, GMC, etc. have engines that are identical or interchangable).

The main concern would be obviously changing out your fuel line setup, and gas tank. I do believe that diesel gas tanks require a special fuel heater for areas of extreme cold.

Probably your best bet would be to start looking around at a junk yard. You more than likely will be able to piece everything together with little to no problem. Also, just having an older truck to begin with makes it relatively easier to complete the swap... less electronics and wiring.

When you do finally get the swap done, I would suggest a propane leak system which will get you better torque and MPG depending on how you drive.

Don't forget to vote for the Best Answer!

-TORCH

Answer 3

If it is a new engine you are fitting, then why not go Biodiesel, you can make this from waste vegetable oil for around 80 cents a gallon, it has several advantages
1) It's cheap
2) It has a higher cetane rating than mineral diesel
3) it has a LOT less toxins etc than mineral diesel
4) your engine will last a lot longer
5) your oil will need to be changed a lot less
6) tickover will be incredibly smooth
7) the worst smell it could ever give will be that of hot cooking oil (but lots less)
8) it is very environmentally friendly
9) it keeps your fuel system/lines very clean indeed

Because it actually cleans fuel systems, lines and engine, you may need to have very high quality fuel pipes fitted, also an extra oil filter (available from any car parts place for a few dollars - get washable)

To find out more about bio diesel go to the Yahoo Groups, there are a lot od bio-diesel groups there.
The most popular Bio-diesel processors follow the 'Appleseed Processor' can be made from bits from Home Depot, Lowes, Harbor Frieght for around $400 - $500 complete
DO NOT buy that one that comes as a kit for around $1500, it is lethal and a total waste of money.

Answer 4

you're asking for alot of work just to install a diesel motor in a gas engine vehicle. your biggest issue will be the fuel system. the fuel tank will have to be modified, an external high-pressure pump. the injector system and the susequent wiring for all that.
but if you want to still go diesel. go with a late 90's GMC turbo-diesel from the 2500 series truck