Dmax Firing Order & Stroker Kits | SOCAL DIESEL
Is your Duramax diesel engine's crankshaft life being cut short? By switching your engine's firing order, you can potentially extend its lifespan and unlock a new level of performance.
In the heart of Santa Clarita, California, a performance and engineering powerhouse has been quietly revolutionizing the Duramax diesel engine landscape: SoCal Diesel. With a reputation built on race-inspired designs and meticulous craftsmanship, SoCal Diesel offers a comprehensive suite of upgrades, parts, and services aimed at maximizing power, reliability, and longevity for Duramax engines. From complete engine builds to individual components, SoCal Diesel is a go-to resource for diesel enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Company Name | SoCal Diesel |
Location | Santa Clarita, California |
Specialization | Duramax Diesel Engine Performance, Design, and Engineering |
Key Offerings |
|
Notable Features |
|
Years of Experience | 26 years of high-performance automotive cylinder head and related parts engineering, design, and manufacturing (via Advanced Motorsports Technology) |
Website Reference | SoCal Diesel Official Website |
One of the core philosophies at SoCal Diesel is a relentless pursuit of performance. This commitment is exemplified by their 7.1-liter stroker kit, a masterpiece of engineering that transforms the Duramax into a 427 cubic inch powerhouse. This kit includes a meticulously crafted billet crank, a high-performance flywheel, a super damper to manage torsional vibrations, precision-engineered pistons, rings, and bearings, among other critical components. The result is a substantial increase in both horsepower and torque, allowing Duramax owners to experience a whole new level of exhilarating performance.
Beyond the impressive 7.1-liter stroker kit, SoCal Diesel provides a wide array of components to help enthusiasts customize their Duramax engines to perfection. Alternative firing order camshafts are readily available, representing a critical upgrade that can extend crankshaft life. These specialized camshafts, in conjunction with other performance enhancements, allows for optimized engine performance. Similarly, a super damper is offered, crucial for controlling the torsional crankshaft vibrations that can plague high-performance diesel engines. It is meticulously designed to balance these vibrations across the entire RPM range.
The expertise at SoCal Diesel goes far beyond simply selling parts. Every engine built is a custom creation, tailored to the exact specifications of the owner and the intended use of the vehicle. SoCal Diesel's dedication to quality is evident in every aspect of their work, from the careful selection of components to the precision with which they are assembled. The team, led by Tripp, is passionate about what they do, and their attention to detail reflects their dedication to their craft. The company's commitment to excellence stems from a background of 26 years of high-performance automotive cylinder head and related parts engineering, design, and manufacturing through Advanced Motorsports Technology.
For those seeking a bolt-on performance upgrade, SoCal Diesel's CSP5 switches are a popular choice. It's important to note that these switches do not contain the actual engine tuning or calibrations themselves. The CSP5 switch acts as a communication device, signaling to the Engine Control Module (ECM) which pre-programmed tuning calibration should be activated. The tuning files, typically stored on an AutoCal or V2 device, are then flashed onto the ECM. This allows users to easily switch between different performance settings, optimizing the engine's output for various driving conditions or performance needs.
SoCal Diesel's commitment to innovation is further demonstrated by the introduction of the super damper designed for GM Duramax diesel engines. This component utilizes an elastomer design to effectively manage torsional crankshaft vibrations across all RPM ranges. The super damper is an essential component for any Duramax engine that's pushing the limits of performance, providing balanced dampening for increased durability and reduced wear. It is designed not to cause any damage to the 5mm drive pins on the snout of the Duramax crank.
In the world of high-performance diesel engines, managing the immense power and torque generated by modifications is critical. SoCal Diesel understands this and offers a comprehensive selection of parts and accessories that address these needs. From enhanced cylinder heads to custom-ground camshafts, the company offers a complete solution for those seeking to push their Duramax engines to the next level. Their stage 1 cylinder heads, custom camshafts, new GM water pumps with tig welded impeller gears, and new GM oil coolers are just some of the options to choose from, to match your particular performance goals.
The availability of alternative firing order camshafts represents a significant upgrade that can extend the life of your crankshaft by altering the way the engine's cylinders fire. By changing the firing order, SoCal Diesel offers a proactive solution to the challenges faced by high-performance Duramax engines. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) firing order culminates with cylinder 3, but begins with cylinders 1 and 2. When considering alternative firing order camshafts, it's wise to send the base file to your chosen tuner. Brayden Fleece provided the base files for the alternative firing order cams. Guy Tripp at SoCal Diesel also sells a DSP5 switch/pin assembly for straightforward installation.
The experience with SoCal Diesel extends beyond simply obtaining parts. Many customers, like the one who recently discussed a PCM issue, have appreciated the helpful service offered. This commitment, coupled with their dedication to designing and engineering top-tier components, ensures that customers can enjoy a reliable, high-performance driving experience. The availability of a 7.1 liter/427ci duramax kit further expands performance offerings.
The 427ci GM engine is back, this time in a Duramax application. When it comes to crankshafts, SoCal Diesel offers various options. They have a selection of crankshafts, including Callies Durastar, Callies Ultra Billet (external balance), and their own SoCal Diesel crankshafts, with costs ranging from $1700 to $5000. For those looking to take their engines to the next level, the Mahle "forged" piston and ring kit is an option. They offer different bore sizes: standard, +.020 (433ci), and +.040 (437ci), and "H" style main and rod bearings. If you are installing the water pump, the gear should be TIG welded to the shaft for additional durability.
The goal is to extend the longevity of your engine and maximize performance potential. For sled pulling applications and other high-stress environments, SoCal Diesel offers parts like the 7.1l stroker crank and forged .040 over pistons. The Duramax super damper prevents damage to the weak 5mm drive pins on the snout of the Duramax crank.


