GMC/Chevrolet's T-Series Trucks Feature New Engines

By Staff -- Logistics Management, 5/1/1999

GMC/Chevrolet's T-Series includes the T5500, T6500, T7500, and T8500 models, spanning class 5 through the lower end of class 8.

Available in single-axle, tandem-axle, and LoPro models, the T-series trucks are capable of accommodating bodies of up to 28 feet and payloads of up to 40,000 pounds. According to the manufacturer, these trucks offer the widest range of GVWRs (gross vehicle weight ratings), wheelbases, axles, frames, and suspensions and chassis combinations of any tilt-cab models in North America.

This year's T-series models are offered with a choice of a gas engine or one of two diesel engines. The newest engine, the Vortec 7400 MD, is equipped with sequential port fuel injection and coil-near-plug (distributorless) ignition. Two power options of the Vortec 7400 MD engine are available, replacing the previous 6.0-liter and 7.0-liter engines offered in the 1998 models.

The two diesel engines include the Caterpillar 3126B and the new Duramax 7800. The Duramax 7800 diesel engine uses pilot injection to introduce a small amount of fuel just prior to the conventional fuel-injection pulse. This reduces noise and knock levels in the engine, creating smoother, quieter operation, and provides more efficient overall combustion, says the manufacturer. FOR INFORMATION CIRCLE 137