About KAV Diesel Performance

KAV Diesel Performance was built on a background of agriculture, machinery, and hands-on mechanical work. Growing up around farming equipment and heavy machinery created an early foundation in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing complex systems where reliability mattered.

An interest in car audio and radio installations began in high school and continued through college, building a strong understanding of electrical systems, wiring integrity, and clean installation practices. That technical background naturally carried over into automotive work.

Early experience with GM performance platforms included LS-based engines and modifications, but a turning point came after multiple failures in early Duramax builds, including broken crankshafts in both LBZ and LB7 applications. Rather than walking away from the platform, those failures drove a deeper focus on understanding where Duramax engines fail and how to properly address those weaknesses.

Working through complete engine rebuilds and supporting system upgrades marked the beginning of a serious commitment to building stronger, more reliable diesel performance setups. From that point forward, the focus shifted to strengthening weak links, improving supporting systems, and building Duramax engines that could handle increased demand without compromising reliability.

A rare LB7 / ZF6 Duramax build further reinforced the importance of correct component selection, proper machining, and thoughtful system integration. That hands-on experience — combined with repairing and improving numerous GM trucks and SUVs since — positioned KAV Diesel Performance to specialize in GM gas and Duramax platforms with confidence.

Today, KAV Diesel Performance focuses on GM trucks and SUVs, offering diagnostics, performance upgrades, supporting repairs, and electrical and audio installations. The shop is equipped with the tools, knowledge, and experience needed to fix vehicles correctly the first time, with an emphasis on long-term reliability and serviceability.

Work is handled by appointment with a quality-over-quantity mindset, allowing each project to be planned and executed with care.