
A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is an after-treatment technology that is installed in vehicles equipped with diesel engines to reduce particulate matter. In the U.S., all heavy duty diesel engines manufactured in the U.S. beginning January 1, 2007, must meet new emissions regulations that require a reduction of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC) by more than 50 percent and particulate matter (PM) by 90 percent, compared with the previous standard, established in 2004.
GM has made several updates to the Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel engine and added a diesel particulate filter to meet these standards.
How it Works
Diesel particulate matter is trapped in a honeycomb-like ceramic "brick" after it travels through an oxidizing catalyst. Remaining exhaust gases are routed out through the exhaust system. To ensure optimal performance, the system must undergo periodic "regeneration" to eliminate accumulated soot from the filter. The regeneration process uses heat to burn off the soot and, in most cases, is performed automatically.
An onboard computer controls fuel injection and oxygen content to adjust the exhaust energy to the appropriate level to clean the particulate trap. Periodic servicing of the filter is required to remove accumulated ash. The DPF and corresponding components will change the exhaust system length and/or outlet design, depending on the vehicle model. Also, an expanded underbody heat shield is added.
2007 Model Availability [2008 Coming Soon]
| Chevrolet | 2500, 3500 Silverado HD |
| GMC | 2500, 3500 Sierra HD |