The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 4.8-liter V8 engine producing 295 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2007 through 2014, this variant occupied a crucial middle ground within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. It was part of the second generation of the Silverado (commonly referred to as the GMT900 series), a generation known for its improved interior space, enhanced ride quality, and more refined styling compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.8 (295 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 414 Nm @ 4800 rpm / 305.35 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LY2 |
| Engine displacement | 4807 cm3 / 293.34 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm / 3.78 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm / 3.27 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l / 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 16 l / 16.91 US qt | 14.08 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l / 25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal |
| Length | 6025 mm / 237.2 in. |
| Width | 2024 mm / 79.69 in. |
| Height | 1956 mm / 77.01 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3886 mm / 152.99 in. |
| Front track | 1730 mm / 68.11 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm / 67.01 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 4.8-liter (293 cubic inch) LY2 V8 engine. This engine, part of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, is a 90-degree OHV (Overhead Valve) design featuring a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. The LY2 utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for optimized combustion. The engine’s 295 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm were achieved through careful tuning of the engine management system and the use of variable valve timing. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis, sending power rearward. Paired with the 4.8L engine is a four-speed automatic transmission (likely the 4L60E), chosen for its durability and suitability for towing and hauling. This transmission features electronic control for smoother shifting and improved fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.8L V8 and four-speed automatic combination provided a comfortable and capable driving experience, though it wasn’t the most performance-oriented setup available in the Silverado 1500. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and moderate towing, but it lacked the punch of the larger 5.3L or 6.2L V8 options. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel economy and towing capacity. The first gear was relatively low for quick starts, while the higher gears allowed for relaxed cruising on the highway. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic, but at the expense of some driver control and fuel efficiency. The overall driving experience was characterized by a smooth ride and predictable handling, typical of full-size American pickup trucks.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab Standard Box 4.8L typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. The Crew Cab configuration offered spacious seating for up to six passengers, making it a popular choice for families. Depending on the specific trim level (such as WT, LT, or LTZ), additional features could include upgraded audio systems, leather upholstery, heated seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and alloy wheels. Optional extras often included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The Standard Box length provided a good compromise between cargo capacity and maneuverability.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup was designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment. The rear drum brakes were a cost-saving measure on some trims, while higher-end models often featured four-wheel disc brakes. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab 4.8L was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and overall value. However, some reviewers noted that the 4.8L engine could feel underpowered when towing heavy loads or driving uphill. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.8L offered slightly better fuel economy, but at the cost of performance. The 4.8L was often seen as a good choice for buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over outright power. Against competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado 1500 II offered a competitive package in terms of features, price, and reliability.
Legacy
The LY2 4.8L V8 engine, when properly maintained, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional misfires, but these were generally not major concerns. The four-speed automatic transmission was also known for its durability. Today, used Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab 4.8L models are readily available and often represent a good value for buyers looking for a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. While not the most powerful or fuel-efficient option in the lineup, this variant offers a solid combination of practicality, comfort, and reliability, making it a popular choice in the used car market.
