8.2 Detroit Diesel Engine Specifications

by Steve Johnson
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The Detroit Diesel Corporation, founded in 1937 by General Motors, was originally known as the "Detroit Diesel Engine Division." Their first product was the Series 71 engine. The 8.2L Detroit Diesel Engine, also known as the "Fuel Pincher," was introduced in the 1980s. It was mainly found in the GMC B-series line of commercial and school buses.

Development

The 8.2-liter "Fuel Pincher" was the first four-cycle engine that Detroit Diesel introduced on the market. The initial engine released had some issues on the operational side. Its head torque was not properly achieved because of its small head bolts, and the engine block was made using an open block deck that created problems with its head gaskets during overheating. These issues were resolved in subsequent years, and a turbocharged diesel engine variant was also released.

Performance

The base 8.2L Fuel Pincher is a naturally aspirated engine with a displacement of 500 cubic inches. Its rated gross output is 165 horsepower at 3,000 RPM, and it has a dry weight of 1,096 pounds. It has a bore and stroke of 4.25 by 4.41 inches. On the other hand, the Turbocharged Fuel Pincher has a gross output of 205 horsepower at 3,000 RPM, and has a dry weight of 1,121 pounds. Both engines are capable of producing up to 495 foot-pounds of torque, depending on their usage. They were also made with a dual full-flow oil filter, a fuel oil filter and a fuel oil strainer. The cooling system is composed of an air cleaner, a governor and a fan. Both engines also come standard with a starting motor and an oil cooler.

Replacement Parts and Pricing

Replacement parts and overhaul kits are widely available for the 8.2L Detroit Diesel Engine. Today, a complete rebuilder kit can cost around $1,600, while a new turbocharger can cost around $360. Other engine parts are also available, including fuel systems, cooling systems, and exhaust and lubrication systems. As of 2010, a used or remanufactured 8.2L Detroit diesel can cost around $2,000 to $4,000 depending on its condition.

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