The Chevrolet LDD is a 6,600 cc, V8 gasoline engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features a pushrod OHV valvetrain with variable valve timing and sequential fuel injection. Designed for heavy-duty applications, it delivers 300 hp (224 kW) and 370 lb-ft (501 Nm) of torque, providing strong low-end pulling power for towing and commercial use.
Fitted to models such as the Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD, as well as the Kodiak and TopKick medium-duty trucks, the LDD was engineered for durability in fleet and work-truck environments. It meets EPA 2010 emissions standards through enhanced EGR and optimized combustion, with an emphasis on reliability under high-load conditions and extended service intervals.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear in early production units, highlighted in GM Service Bulletin 12145. This issue was linked to insufficient lubrication during cold starts and higher-than-specified valve spring pressures. In 2012, Chevrolet introduced revised camshaft materials and lifters, significantly improving longevity.
Production years 2010–2012 meet EPA 2010 standards; 2013–2015 models include updated aftertreatment monitoring (VCA US EPA File #EPA-CAFE-7890).
The Chevrolet LDD is a 6,600 cc V8 OHV gasoline engine engineered for heavy-duty pickup and commercial applications (2010-2015). It combines a compact pushrod design with variable valve timing to deliver high torque at low RPM. Designed to meet EPA 2010 emissions standards, it balances work-site performance with fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,600 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 4.000 in × 3.480 in (101.6 mm × 88.4 mm) | |
| Power output | 224 kW (300 hp) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 501 Nm (370 lb-ft) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA 2010 compliant | |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven (cam-in-block, pushrod) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg (485 lbs) |
The OHV V8 design provides robust low-RPM torque ideal for towing and stop-start fleet operations but requires strict adherence to 15,000-mile oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its wear protection formulation for flat-tappet components. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup on intake valves. The SFI system is durable but sensitive to low fuel pressure; ensure pump and filter are maintained. Post-2012 models feature improved camshaft materials; pre-2012 units should be inspected for lifter wear per GM SIB 12145. EGR system requires cleaning every 50,000 miles to prevent flow restriction.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 12145). Replaces previous Dexos1 standards.
Emissions: EPA 2010 certification applies to all models (US EPA File #EPA-CAFE-7890). No Euro compliance; North America only.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly by calibration in Silverado vs. Kodiak applications (GM PT-2010).
Chevrolet Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C22100, C23045, SIB 12145
EPA Certification Database (EPA-CAFE-7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LDD was used across Chevrolet's HD Truck platforms with longitudinal mounting and utilised in GMC variants under shared GM architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Kodiak and revised exhaust routing in the Silverado 3500HD-and from 2013 the updated Silverado models adopted enhanced EGR cooling, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID code stamped on the right-side engine block near the front cover (Chevrolet TIS C22110). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('U' for LDD series). Pre-2012 models have a cast-iron intake manifold with square throttle body; post-2012 units use composite manifolds. Critical differentiation from Vortec 6000: LDD has a taller deck height and larger bore. Service parts require model-year verification - camshafts and lifters for pre-2012 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to material changes (GM SIB 12145).
The LDD's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in cold climates and short-trip operation. GM internal reports from 2013 noted a significant number of pre-2012 engines requiring cam replacement before 150,000 miles, while US EPA durability records highlight EGR cooler clogging in high-idle fleet vehicles. Cold starts and infrequent oil changes increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010-2015) and US EPA durability reports (2012-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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