Duramax bites the dust - Blown head gasket @ 102K miles

You don't have to overheat to be a victim of what is described in the thermal feedback articles. It really sounds like you just wanted a place to vent your frustration. That is understandable, but you might try to learn something for your trouble.

Sorry to hear it OP, they usually last a few more miles than that. I'm sure some of the GM guys will step up shortly with some good advice.

Never showed any sign of overheating - Installed a ScanguageII and engine temps were always about 180-190 non-towing / 200-210 towing. Believe me, I watched.

If this is the best GM can do, we shoulda let'em go belly up.

Many 04 and 05 duramax engines suffer blown head gaskets. It is mainly due to some defective turbo components and design. If you want to really understand it here are some links. It is worst when towing heavy in elevated areas on hot days. The hardware changes suggested here should be in every 04 and 05 duramax to help avoid what you experienced.

http://killerbeeperformance.com/induction/induction-overhaul/

http://killerbeeperformance.com/lly-overheating/lly-induction-overheating-explained/

http://killerbeeperformance.com/lly-overheating/thermal-feedback/thermal-feedback-primer/

http://killerbeeperformance.com/lly-overheating/thermal-feedback/thermal-feedback-loops-in-turbocharger-applications/

It's a man-made, fairly complicated object so things can happen. There are lots out there with many, many miles on them. You got unlucky enough to get a bad one.

I'm with you. I've had some big time repairs starting at around 100k on my Ford. The advantage is the pulling power (torque). Other than that, I can't see it.