L5P Duramax Engine Swap

L5P Duramax Engine Swap

Check out this engine build the Engine Builder team saw at the Ultimate Callout Challenge.

Courtesy of Engine Builder by Evan Laux

At the Ultimate Callout Challenge, we had the privilege of checking out an exceptional Duramax L5P engine build done by Keith Porter. Porter’s project blends classic style with cutting-edge technology, and we were fortunate enough to catch up with him for an exclusive interview.

Porter’s pride and joy is a 1952 Chevy 3100 pickup truck, a classic ride that’s been given a new lease on life. He explained that his signature style is to make his projects look as though they could have rolled out of the factory in the way he’s built them. But under the ’52 Chevy’s classic-styled exterior, there’s a modern powerplant.

He swapped in the latest Duramax L5P engine, coupled with a 10-speed Allison transmission. Not stopping there, Porter added VGT turbo controls, custom pipe work by Wehrli, and a unique right-side cold air intake. It’s clear that Keith’s vision for his truck is all about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

As with any ambitious project, Keith’s ’52 Chevy is still a work in progress. He shared that he set the motor back 8″ in the chassis, which means that any further modifications to the engine and fueling system would require disassembling the cab and front end. While this might sound like a daunting task, it’s all part of Keith’s dedication to perfection.

Under the hood, Keith runs a MoTeC 142 ECU and a 127 data logger dash, giving him complete control over the engine, transmission and turbo. This level of technology goes beyond what a factory ECU can provide, allowing Keith to maximize the potential of his Duramax L5P.

When asked about the truck’s horsepower, Keith explained that while it came from the factory with 495 hp, it’s currently pushing well over 700 hp. This is one of the unique aspects of Keith’s build, as it showcases a relatively new engine platform, the Duramax L5P, which was only three years old at the time of the interview. Finding performance parts for this engine was no small feat, but Keith pointed out that companies like S&S Diesel Motorsport were starting to make headway in this regard.

You May Also Like

Managing (DPF) Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration Cycles

The DPF is designed to store the soot and ash, to later burn them off during a regeneration cycle.

Diesel exhaust contains known carcinogens like benzene, in addition to gases that are probable carcinogens (e.g., formaldehyde, 1,3-butadiene). Exposure to diesel exhaust may also cause problems with one’s respiratory system if someone is chronically exposed. Smog can form at the ground-level ozone layer due to reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). This is not to be confused with the stratospheric ozone layer, which protects Earth from objects and gases in space from entering our atmosphere. Vehicles contribute about half of the NOx that is emitted, according to the EPA. 

Triple-Turbo 6.4L Cummins Super Stock Engine

Check out this diesel build by Addicted Performance Diesel’s shop owner, Jason Stott.

Single-Turbo 5.9L Cummins Engine

Check out the latest diesel of the week!

Compound-Turbo 6.0L Powerstroke Engine

Check out what’s under the hood of this 1962 Ford Country Squire.

Billet Triple-Turbo 6.4L Cummins Super Stock Engine

It’s the pinnacle of Scheid Diesel builds, so don’t miss what’s in and on this engine.

Other Posts

Crankshaft Counterweights And Balancing

Imbalance in the engine exhibits vibration and damage. Balancing becomes critical to any engine build.

Diesel Turbocharging Basics

There’s a reason diesels typically utilize compound turbo setups instead of twin turbochargers.

AMSOIL Introduces New OE 0W-40 100% Synthetic Motor Oil

The new OE 0W-40 is primarily for newer RAM HD trucks equipped with the 6.4-liter Hemi engine.

Fuel Types and Engine Performance

When it comes to choosing the right fuel for your vehicle, several factors should be taken into consideration. These factors include the vehicle’s engine design, manufacturer recommendations, intended usage, and personal preferences.