The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Crew Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel drive system and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2007 through 2010 as part of the GMT900 generation, this variant aimed to provide a balance of capability, comfort, and technology for the American truck buyer. It occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering substantial towing and payload capacity without the higher price tag of diesel-powered models or the more specialized work truck trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 125.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 180 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4200 rpm, 379.84 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Vortec LY6 |
| Engine displacement | 5967 cm3, 364.13 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm, 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.5 l, 16.38 US qt | 13.64 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2861 kg, 6307.43 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4490 kg, 9898.76 lbs. |
| Max load | 1629 kg, 3591.33 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2170 l, 76.63 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 129 l, 34.08 US gal | 28.38 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5398 kg, 11900.55 lbs. |
| Length | 6572 mm, 258.74 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1934 mm, 76.14 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4242 mm, 167.01 in. |
| Front track | 1742 mm, 68.58 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1676 mm, 65.98 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 233 mm, 9.17 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.8 m, 55.12 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 325×38 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 325×30 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 265/75 R16; 225/75 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2007-2010 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II Crew Cab Long Box, powered by the 6.0-liter Vortec LY6 V8 and equipped with a four-wheel drive system and automatic transmission, was a key offering in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup. Built on the GMT900 platform, this generation represented a significant step forward in terms of interior refinement, ride quality, and capability compared to its predecessors. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample passenger space, making it suitable for both work and family use, while the Long Box offered a generous cargo bed for hauling. This particular variant aimed to bridge the gap between the base work trucks and the more expensive diesel options, appealing to buyers who needed substantial towing and payload capacity but didn’t require the added cost and complexity of a Duramax diesel engine.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II lies the Vortec LY6 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, known for its robust construction and reliable performance. The LY6 features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery and an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this configuration. This transmission was chosen for its smooth shifting and ability to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. The 4WD system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive high, and four-wheel drive low for optimal traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission delivers a driving experience focused on capability and comfort. While not as quick as some of the lighter-duty trucks, the engine provides ample power for towing and hauling heavy loads. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, making it easy to drive in both city and highway conditions. The 6-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing good acceleration and responsiveness. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, this variant offers a quieter and smoother ride, but lacks the diesel’s superior low-end torque. The four-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable off-road vehicle as well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD II Crew Cab Long Box 6.0L 4WD typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages. The interior design was a significant improvement over previous generations, with a more modern and refined look and feel.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II features a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar and double wishbone setup, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employs a rigid axle with leaf springs, offering excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and ample towing and payload capacity. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, it offered a lower price point and simpler maintenance requirements. However, it lacked the diesel’s superior fuel economy and low-end torque. Fuel economy was rated at around 14 mpg city and 18 mpg highway, which was typical for a heavy-duty truck of this size and capability. Reliability was generally good, with the Vortec LY6 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II 6.0L V8 remains a popular choice in the used truck market today. Its robust construction, ample capability, and relatively simple maintenance requirements make it an attractive option for buyers who need a heavy-duty truck without the added cost and complexity of a diesel engine. The Vortec LY6 engine is known for its longevity and reliability, and parts are readily available. While not as fuel-efficient as modern trucks, the Silverado 3500 HD II continues to provide a capable and dependable workhorse for those who need it.
