The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine and a six-speed Allison automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2017, this configuration occupied a premium position within the Silverado 2500HD lineup, targeting buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capacity combined with a degree of refinement. It was part of the third generation of the K2XX platform, known for its increased strength and capability compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (397 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 321.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 397 Hp @ 3000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1037 Nm @ 1600 rpm (764.85 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax LML |
| Engine displacement | 6599 cm3 (402.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 22.4 l (23.67 US qt | 19.71 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3222 kg (7103.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 4536 kg (10000.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1314 kg (2896.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1728 l (61.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg (13000.66 lbs.) |
| Length | 6083 mm (239.49 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2045 mm (80.51 in.) |
| Height | 1988 mm (78.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3904 mm (153.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1748 mm (68.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15.7 m (51.51 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Allison |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/70 R18; 265/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado 2500HD variant is the Duramax LML 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8. This engine, a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty offerings, is renowned for its robust construction and substantial torque output. The LML iteration introduced several refinements over its predecessor, including a redesigned turbocharger, improved fuel injection system, and enhanced cooling. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, delivering highly pressurized fuel directly into the cylinders for efficient combustion. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while traditional, contributes to the engine’s durability and low-end torque characteristics. The Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission is specifically designed to handle the immense torque produced by the Duramax engine. It features a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds and is known for its reliability and smooth shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque delivered by the Duramax engine and Allison transmission results in a truck capable of impressive performance, even when heavily loaded. While not designed for outright speed, the Silverado 2500HD offers strong acceleration and effortless towing capabilities. The Allison transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both hauling and highway cruising. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 2500HD models, the Duramax diesel provides significantly more low-end torque, making it ideal for demanding tasks. Compared to higher-output Duramax variants, this 397 hp version offers a balance between power and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for those who don’t require the absolute maximum towing capacity.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Standard Box configuration typically came well-equipped, positioning it as a mid-to-upper trim level. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The K2XX platform features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck’s substantial weight and towing capacity. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, offering a comfortable ride and improved handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Due to the weight of the vehicle, rear brakes are slightly larger than the front brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 2500HD with the 6.6-liter Duramax diesel and Allison automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was considered reasonable for a heavy-duty truck of its size and capability. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 2500HD models, the Duramax diesel offered superior towing performance and fuel efficiency, albeit at a higher initial cost. Compared to competing trucks from Ford and Ram, the Silverado 2500HD was often seen as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of power, refinement, and reliability.
Legacy
The Duramax LML engine and Allison transmission pairing has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. Properly maintained, these powertrains can easily exceed 200,000 miles. In the used car market, the 2015-2017 Silverado 2500HD with this configuration remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and dependable heavy-duty truck. Values tend to be higher than comparable gasoline-powered models, reflecting the Duramax engine’s reputation for longevity and performance. The K2XX platform’s robust construction and the powertrain’s proven track record contribute to the continued desirability of this Silverado variant.
