Starting a diesel truck with a dead battery requires a jump box that can deliver high peak amperage and sustained power. We researched, compared, and evaluated the top models based on manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback. This guide covers seven real products that meet the demands of diesel engines, from heavy-duty farm trucks to daily driver pickups. We highlight each unit’s strengths and limitations so you can choose the right one for your needs.
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NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Best for Light Duty Diesel 1000A peak, 6.0L gas / 3.0L diesel |
8.7 |
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NOCO Boost HD GB70 Top Pick 2000A peak, 8.0L gas / 6.0L diesel |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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NOCO Boost Pro GB150 Best for Heavy Duty 4250A peak, 10.0L gas / 8.0L diesel |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Schumacher DSR115 Best for Dual Battery Systems 1700A peak, 12V, includes 120V AC outlet |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Clore Automotive JNC660 Professional Grade 1700 peak amps, heavy-duty cables |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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GOOLOO GP4000 Budget Friendly 4000A peak, 12V, up to 10.0L gas/8.0L diesel |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Audew 2000A Compact Power 2000A peak, 12V, up to 7.0L gas/5.5L diesel |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. NOCO Boost Plus GB40: Best for Light Duty Diesel
The NOCO Boost Plus GB40 is a compact jump starter that delivers 1000 peak amps, enough for most gasoline engines and smaller diesel engines up to 3.0 liters. In our evaluation, its spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection set a high safety standard. Owner feedback often praises its reliability for emergency jumps on smaller diesel trucks like the Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado. However, for larger diesel engines such as those in heavy-duty pickups or commercial trucks, the GB40 may lack sufficient cranking power.
Who should skip this: If you drive a full-size diesel truck like a Ford F-250 with a 6.7L Power Stroke or a Ram 2500 with a 6.7L Cummins, this unit is underpowered. It’s best suited for compact diesel SUVs, light-duty trucks, or as a secondary backup. Consider the NOCO Boost HD GB70 or GB150 for larger engines.
- Compact and lightweight at 2.4 lbs
- Spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection
- USB output for charging devices
Pros: Extremely portable and easy to store; Excellent safety features
Cons: May struggle with larger diesel engines over 3.0L
2. NOCO Boost HD GB70: Top Pick
The NOCO Boost HD GB70 is our top pick for diesel truck owners who need a balance of power and portability. With 2000 peak amps, it can jump-start diesel engines up to 6.0 liters, covering most pickup trucks and some medium-duty diesels. We researched owner reports and found consistent success with 6.7L Cummins and 6.6L Duramax engines. The GB70 features NOCO’s UltraSafe technology, which includes spark-proof clamps and reverse polarity protection, giving confidence. Its IP65 rating means it can handle dust and rain, a plus for truck owners who work outdoors.
Who should skip this: If you own a large commercial diesel truck with an engine over 6.0L or a dual-battery system, you may need a more powerful unit like the GB150. Also, if you prioritize ultra-portability, the GB70 is heavier than smaller models. But for most diesel pickup owners, this is an excellent choice.
- 2000 peak amps for large diesel engines up to 6.0L
- UltraSafe spark-proof clamps with reverse polarity protection
- IP65 rated water and dust resistant
Pros: Reliable starting power for most diesel trucks; Rugged build with durable casing
Cons: Heavier than compact models at 5.2 lbs
3. NOCO Boost Pro GB150: Best for Heavy Duty
The NOCO Boost Pro GB150 is a powerhouse designed for heavy-duty diesel trucks and equipment. With 4250 peak amps, it can start engines up to 8.0 liters, including large commercial diesels, buses, and agricultural machinery. In our evaluation, the GB150’s ability to handle both 12V and 24V systems makes it adaptable for fleet use. Owner feedback highlights its reliability in extreme cold and with multiple jump starts on a single charge. The unit includes USB ports for charging electronics, though its primary focus is raw starting power.
Who should skip this: If you only need to start a standard diesel pickup, the GB150 is overkill and its size makes it less convenient for everyday carry. It’s best for those with heavy-duty trucks, multiple vehicles, or who need a backup power source for equipment. The price is also higher, but justified for commercial use.
- Massive 4250 peak amps for the largest diesel engines
- Heavy-duty clamps with 12V and 24V support
- USB-C and USB-A ports for device charging
Pros: Unmatched cranking power for commercial diesels; Dual voltage capability (12V/24V)
Cons: Very heavy at 9.5 lbs and bulky
4. Schumacher DSR115: Best for Dual Battery Systems
The Schumacher DSR115 is a hybrid jump box that combines a traditional lead-acid battery with a 120V AC inverter. It delivers 1700 peak amps, suitable for most diesel trucks, and can jump 24V systems in a pinch. In our research, owner feedback indicates it’s popular among contractors who need to power small tools on job sites. The built-in LED light and USB ports add utility. However, the lead-acid battery makes it much heavier than lithium alternatives, and it requires regular maintenance to keep the battery charged.
Who should skip this: If you prioritize portability and quick recharging, a lithium jump starter is a better choice. The DSR115 is best for those who want a jump box that also serves as a portable power station. Its weight and size may be a drawback for daily carry, but it’s a solid option for garage or workshop use.
- 1700 peak amps and 3400 peak for 24V systems
- Built-in 120V AC inverter for powering tools
- LED work light with emergency flash
Pros: AC outlet is handy for job sites; Works with both 12V and 24V systems
Cons: Bulky and heavy at 18 lbs; Not as portable as lithium models
5. Clore Automotive JNC660: Professional Grade
The Clore Automotive JNC660 is a professional-grade jump box designed for heavy use in auto shops and fleet maintenance. It features a 22 Ah lead-acid battery and 1700 peak amps, enough for most diesel trucks. We researched its performance and found it reliable for repeated jumps without overheating. The heavy-duty cables and clamps are built to last. However, it lacks modern amenities like USB ports and is very heavy, making it impractical for emergency roadside use.
Who should skip this: If you need a jump starter for occasional personal use, the JNC660 is overbuilt and cumbersome. It’s best for professionals who need a durable, high-capacity unit that stays in the shop. The lack of safety features like reverse polarity protection is a drawback compared to newer models.
- 1700 peak amps with a 22 Ah battery
- Professional-grade clamps and 4-gauge cables
- Built-in voltmeter and work light
Pros: Very durable construction for shop use; Long-lasting battery with high reserve capacity
Cons: Heavy (over 20 lbs) and not portable; No USB or modern charging ports
6. GOOLOO GP4000: Budget Friendly
The GOOLOO GP4000 offers a high peak amp rating at a budget price, making it attractive for diesel truck owners. It claims 4000 peak amps, which should start large diesel engines. In our evaluation, we found that while it can start many trucks, some owner reports indicate inconsistent performance, especially in cold weather. The unit includes a USB-C port for fast charging and a bright LED light. However, the overall build quality and safety features aren’t as solid as premium brands.
Who should skip this: If you rely on your jump starter for critical situations or in extreme conditions, consider a more reputable brand. The GP4000 is a good value for occasional use or as a backup, but its durability and reliability may not match higher-priced models. It’s best for budget-conscious buyers who understand the trade-offs.
- 4000 peak amps claimed for large engines
- USB-C fast charging input and output
- LED flashlight with SOS and strobe
Pros: Very affordable for the claimed power; Fast recharging via USB-C
Cons: Real-world performance may fall short of claims; Build quality concerns reported by some users
7. Audew 2000A: Compact Power
The Audew 2000A jump starter packs 2000 peak amps into a compact package, similar to the NOCO GB70 but at a lower price. It includes extra features like a compass and emergency hammer. In our research, user feedback is mixed: some report successful jumps on diesel trucks up to 5.5L, while others experienced issues with weaker batteries. The build quality is decent but not as rugged as premium competitors. The unit’s safety features are basic, and it lacks spark-proof technology.
Who should skip this: If you drive a large diesel truck (6.0L or more) or need a unit you can rely on in harsh conditions, look elsewhere. The Audew is best for smaller diesel engines or as a budget backup. Its performance and durability are adequate for light use, but not for heavy-duty demands.
- 2000 peak amps in a compact lithium design
- Built-in compass and emergency hammer
- USB-A and USB-C ports
Pros: Small and lightweight for its power rating; Additional emergency tools included
Cons: May not start larger diesel engines reliably; Lower durability compared to established brands
Frequently Asked Questions
What size jump box do I need for a diesel truck?
The size of the jump box depends on your engine displacement. For most diesel pickup trucks (6.0L to 6.7L), a unit with 2000 peak amps or more is recommended. Larger commercial diesels may require 3000+ peak amps. Always check the manufacturer’s compatibility chart.
Can a jump box be used as a power bank?
Many modern jump boxes include USB ports for charging phones and tablets. Some models, like the Schumacher DSR115, even have AC outlets for powering small tools. However, using the jump box as a power bank will deplete its battery, reducing its ability to jump-start.
How long does a jump box battery last?
Lithium jump boxes typically hold a charge for 6-12 months when not in use. Lead-acid models may lose charge faster and require more frequent maintenance. It’s a good practice to recharge your jump box every 3-6 months to ensure it’s ready.
Are lithium jump boxes better than lead-acid?
Lithium jump boxes are lighter, more compact, and hold charge longer. They also often have more safety features. Lead-acid models are heavier but can provide higher sustained power and may be more durable for heavy shop use. For most diesel truck owners, lithium is preferred for portability and convenience.
Can I jump start a diesel truck with a jump box in cold weather?
Yes, but cold temperatures reduce battery performance. Look for a jump box with a high peak amp rating and cold cranking amp (CCA) equivalent. Some models, like the NOCO GB150, are designed to perform well in extreme cold. Keep the jump box stored in a warm place before use.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top jump boxes for diesel trucks, the NOCO Boost HD GB70 stands out as the best overall choice for most diesel pickup owners. It offers a strong balance of power, portability, and safety features. For those with heavy-duty commercial diesel trucks, the NOCO Boost Pro GB150 provides unmatched cranking power. If you need a budget option, the GOOLOO GP4000 offers good value for occasional use, but be aware of its limitations.
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