The Isuzu 4HE1 engine is a popular model not only in Isuzu N-series commercial trucks, but in the GMC/Chevrolet W-series as well. Isuzu’s diesel engine was used extensively in the W3500, W4500, and W5500 between 1998 and 2004.
Isuzu’s 4HE1 engine and General Motors
Isuzu’s collaboration with General Motors began in the 1970s. During the 1990s, Isuzu models faced slumping sales. In the face of disappointing returns, the GM- Isuzu partnership focused on product lines that were doing well – namely commercial trucks. Isuzu’s ELF was rebranded as the GMC W series (Forward) and the Chevrolet W series (Tilt master) in the United States.
Isuzu had a long history with diesel engines and was more experienced in their design and manufacture than General Motors. The company took great pride in their reputation quality and reliability of their engines. Isuzu’s innovation produced diesel engines that were quiet, efficient, and cleaner burning than GM’s efforts. GM went with the 4HE1 to satisfy customers desiring diesel commercial use vehicles.
Isuzu’s 4.8L, 16 valve, turbocharged 4 cylinder 4HE1 model was installed in the GMC and Chevrolet W3500 (class 3), W4500 (class 4), and W5500 (class 5) commercial. The 4HE1 diesel engine offered many advantages over General Motors gas-powered engines. Diesel fuel produces 14% more energy than gasoline for equal volumes. The higher compression ratio (18:1 vs. 9.5:1 for the 4.8L gasoline engine) and leaner burn of the diesel gave higher efficiency on the highway and in-town long period idling. The 4HE1 could use biofuel without engine modification and was viewed as being compliant in the push for pollution reduction.
The use of Isuzu’s 4HE1 engine helped fuel the sales of the GMC/Chevrolet W3500, W4500, and W5500 in the United States. The motor was so efficient and reliable that General Motors used the newer 5.0L Isuzu diesel engine in their W-series commercial trucks.
Engine World has the largest inventory of Isuzu 4HE1 engines for GMC/Chevrolet W3500, W4500, and W5500 light to medium duty commercial vehicles in the United States. All the engines are rebuilt or remanufactured and come with expedited shipping within the continental US and to Canada, as well as a 6 month limited warranty.
