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New & Used Detroit Diesel Generators For Sale

Key Facts: Detroit Diesel generator sets: Series 60, Series 149, Series 92, Series 71. 275kW–1,000kW+. American-built reliability with DDEC electronic controls.

Detroit Diesel generators represent over 80 years of American diesel engineering — from the legendary two-stroke Series 71 and Series 92 to the modern four-stroke Series 60 that powered a generation of industrial and standby applications. As a division of MTU America (Rolls-Royce Power Systems), Detroit Diesel's generator platforms remain in active service at critical infrastructure sites nationwide. Power Generation Enterprises maintains one of the largest Detroit Diesel generator inventories on the West Coast, operating from our Santa Clarita, California facility.

The Detroit Diesel Series 60 — available in 11.1L and 14.0L displacements — is the most proven four-stroke Detroit engine in the generator market. Known for its DDEC (Detroit Diesel Electronic Control) fuel management system, exceptional parts availability, and straightforward service, the Series 60 powers generator sets from 300kW to 600kW. Our inventory also includes Series 149, Series 92, and Series 71 units for industrial, marine, and legacy replacement applications.

DDEC advantage: Every modern Detroit Diesel generator features the DDEC electronic control system, providing real-time diagnostics, precise fuel management, and simplified troubleshooting. Parts are universally available through the MTU/Detroit Diesel dealer network and aftermarket suppliers, making long-term ownership costs predictable.

Detroit Diesel Generator Platforms in Our Inventory:
  • Series 60 (11.1L) — 275–400kW standby, DDEC controlled
  • Series 60 (14.0L) — 450–600kW standby, Tier 2/3
  • Series 149 — 600–1,000kW, industrial prime power
  • Series 92 / Series 71 — legacy and specialty applications

Read our full Detroit Diesel generators guide covering models, specs, and pricing. Call (818) 484-8550 or contact our team for current inventory and pricing.

Popular Detroit Diesel Generator Models

ModelPower OutputFuel TypePrice Range
Series 60 (11.1L)275–400kWDiesel$25K–$65K
Series 60 (14.0L)450–600kWDiesel$45K–$95K
Series 149600–1,000kWDiesel$75K–$150K
Series 92200–600kWDiesel$15K–$55K
Series 7150–400kWDiesel$8K–$45K

About Detroit Diesel

Detroit Diesel Corporation was founded in 1938 as a division of General Motors and became synonymous with American diesel engineering excellence over the following decades. The two-stroke Series 71 and Series 92 engines powered everything from military trucks to marine vessels and stationary generators from the 1940s through the 1980s. The four-stroke Series 60 engine, introduced in 1987, modernized the Detroit Diesel lineup with electronic fuel injection (DDEC) and established a new standard for efficiency and reliability in the 12-15L engine class. Detroit Diesel was acquired by DaimlerChrysler in 2000 and subsequently merged into the MTU/Rolls-Royce Power Systems family. The Detroit brand continues as the engine brand for Daimler Truck North America's commercial engines, while legacy generator sets carry the Detroit Diesel nameplate.

Why Choose Detroit Diesel?

Universal Parts Availability

Detroit Diesel Series 60 parts are available at virtually any diesel shop in North America — NAPA, Freightliner dealers, and major aftermarket suppliers all stock Series 60 components.

DDEC Electronic Control

Detroit Diesel Electronic Control (DDEC) provides precision fuel injection, real-time diagnostics, fault code storage, and J1939 data link integration for building automation compatibility.

Proven Four-Stroke Technology

The Series 60 (1987-present) brought four-stroke efficiency and electronic precision to an engine family trusted in millions of trucks and industrial applications across North America.

Legacy Series 71 & 92 Support

Power Generation Enterprises stocks and services legacy Series 71 and Series 92 two-stroke units — cost-effective standby solutions for non-Tier-4 applications.

Rolls-Royce Corporate Family

Detroit Diesel shares corporate ownership with MTU under Rolls-Royce Power Systems, providing access to engineering resources from one of the world's premier power technology groups.

Competitive Acquisition Cost

Detroit Diesel generators offer premium reliability at competitive acquisition costs — particularly in the 275-600kW range where the Series 60 is unmatched for parts network depth and long-term serviceability.

Frequently Asked Questions — Detroit Diesel Generators

How much does a Detroit Diesel generator cost?+

Used Detroit Diesel prices range from $8,000-$45,000 for legacy Series 71 and 92 units, $25,000-$65,000 for Series 60 (11.1L, 275-400kW), and $45,000-$95,000 for Series 60 (14.0L, 450-600kW). Series 149 units (600-1,000kW) run $75,000-$150,000. Call Power Generation Enterprises at (818) 484-8550 for current pricing.

What is the Detroit Diesel Series 60 generator?+

The Detroit Diesel Series 60 is a four-stroke diesel engine in 11.1L and 14.0L displacements, producing 275-600kW in generator set configuration. It features DDEC (Detroit Diesel Electronic Control) for precision fuel injection, real-time diagnostics, and J1939 data link compatibility. It is one of the most widely deployed mid-range diesel generator engines in North American history.

What does DDEC mean on a Detroit Diesel generator?+

DDEC stands for Detroit Diesel Electronic Control — the proprietary engine management system on Series 60 and other modern Detroit Diesel engines. DDEC monitors engine parameters in real time, controls fuel injection timing and quantity for optimal efficiency and emissions, stores fault codes, and provides J1939 data link output for integration with building automation and generator monitoring systems.

Is Detroit Diesel the same as MTU?+

Detroit Diesel and MTU are both brands within the Rolls-Royce Power Systems group (formerly DaimlerChrysler). Detroit Diesel refers to engines manufactured in Detroit under the Detroit brand identity. MTU refers to the German-engineered Series 2000 and 4000 engines from Friedrichshafen. While they share corporate ownership, they are distinct engine families with different designs and target applications.

Are Detroit Diesel Series 60 generators reliable?+

Yes. The Series 60 is one of the most proven diesel engines in North American history, with millions of units deployed in heavy trucks, industrial equipment, and generator sets. Known for robustness, straightforward service, and universal parts availability. The DDEC electronic control system adds diagnostic capability that simplifies troubleshooting and reduces downtime.

What is the difference between Detroit Diesel Series 60, Series 92, and Series 71?+

The Series 71 and 92 are two-stroke diesel engines from Detroit Diesel's legacy lineup (1940s-1980s) — still in service in legacy standby and marine applications, cost-effective for non-Tier-4 applications. The Series 60 is a modern four-stroke engine (1987-present) with DDEC electronic fuel injection, better emissions performance, and longer service intervals. For new purchases, Series 60 is preferred.

Do Detroit Diesel generators meet Tier 4 requirements?+

The Detroit Diesel Series 60 in generator set application is primarily a Tier 2/3 engine. For Tier 4 Final applications, MTU Series 2000/4000 engines (successor technology from the same corporate family) should be specified. Power Generation Enterprises can advise on Tier 4 options — contact us at (818) 484-8550.

Where can I get Detroit Diesel Series 60 parts?+

Series 60 parts are available through MTU/Detroit authorized dealers, Freightliner dealers (the Series 60 powers many Freightliner trucks), NAPA, and major aftermarket diesel parts suppliers. The universal availability of Series 60 parts — available at virtually any diesel shop in North America — is one of its key long-term ownership advantages.

What applications are Detroit Diesel generators best suited for?+

Detroit Diesel generators are well-suited for commercial standby power, prime power in locations with strong Series 60 service infrastructure, and legacy replacement applications. The universal parts network makes Detroit ideal for facilities in areas with limited major-brand dealer support. Also popular for export to markets where Series 60 service knowledge is widespread.

Do you ship Detroit Diesel generators and is financing available?+

Yes to both. Power Generation Enterprises ships Detroit Diesel generators from our Santa Clarita, CA facility to all 50 states. We maintain one of the largest Detroit Diesel generator inventories on the West Coast. Financing is available for qualified buyers. Call (818) 484-8550 for availability, pricing, and financing options.

Detroit Diesel Generators Available Now

Series 60, Series 149, Series 92, and Series 71 units in stock on the West Coast. Our team can provide complete specs and photos. Read our Detroit Diesel guide or call (818) 484-8550.

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