Welcome to TDS!

Comparing a Detriot 2cycle to most other diesel engines around that era is like comparing a Porche engine to a Chevy 6 cylinder. Somewhat more complex, and a bit more important that maintenance and adjustments are done correctly.

That being said, I've always liked them. I have had 3 in my fleet. 2 I built new engines for after we had them for years and they were worn out. With some help form a old time Detriot man, we had 380 hp to the ground (alot for a truck those days) 430 at the crank. One was still running strong when I sold the truck. The other died of driver abuse at about 12,000 hours of short haul roll off service.

I personally would buy the truck if it is as clean as you say. Not if you are in Kalifornia or another smog leaning state though....

But I like Detriots, well tuned and cared for they are a hoot. And yes they will pull, you just have to adjust your driving style compared to modern or 4 cycle engines. A 13 speed or 15 speed would be more useful than an 8LL.

If it runs smooth on all 8, doesn't smoke when warm and doesn't leak excessive oil I'd go for it. Maybe find someone who loves detriots in your area to look at it .

The Garbage Truck Mechanic

 

thank you Garbage Mechanic i appreciate your input. I like the truck alot. It looks all original (unmolested). I like the look of the old KW's and they have no computers. If i buy it ill try to post pics. Thank you again.

 

detroit 8v92

Hey, I'm new too I'm tring to find out how to remove the tach drive from a late 70's pete with an 8v92 it mounted in the back on an acc drive the housing is loose but the drive mount on the gear wont release any ideas.
Sorry to jump on your post but I was having trouble figuring out how to post a new question( computer illiterate). any help would be appreciated, thanks.

 

I sure agree with Garbage Mechanic, they hang together as good as a Cummins. I drove a lo-boy with a 8v71 for about 3 years full time and it was a good old horse. Also a logging truck part time with a 71 and later a cattle truck with the 92. The 71's were the forerunner to the 92 series. I agree with an old friend who said long ago, if I hired a driver I'd want a Detroit (cause of the abuse factor), but if I was driving it myself I want a Cummins. IMO the only flawed engine were the 53 series, at any given time during those days you could find an unlimited supply of cracked cyl heads in any truck shop's iron pile.