The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Crew Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2011 to 2014 as part of the GMT900 platform’s facelift, this variant aimed to provide a balance of robust capability, comfortable interior space, and modern features for the American truck buyer. It occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering a substantial step up in towing and payload capacity compared to the 2500HD series, while remaining more accessible than the fully-equipped premium trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159 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 L96 |
| 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, VVT |
| 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 | 3240 kg, 7142.98 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 5897 kg, 13000.66 lbs. |
| Max load | 2657 kg, 5857.68 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2138 l, 75.5 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5987 kg, 13199.08 lbs. |
| Length | 6581 mm, 259.09 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1979 mm, 77.91 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4260 mm, 167.72 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1906 mm, 75.04 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm, 8.39 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.9 m, 55.45 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, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 373×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 265/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a staple of Chevrolet trucks for many years, is a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance. The L96 utilizes multi-port fuel injection and variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. This torque output is crucial for heavy towing and hauling. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. Paired with the L96 is the Hydra-Matic 6L90E six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was chosen for its robustness and ability to handle the high torque output of the V8. The 6L90E features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive for improved fuel economy at highway speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination in the Silverado 3500 HD II delivers a driving experience focused on capability rather than outright speed. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but the truck truly shines when put to work. The automatic transmission provides smooth shifts, although it may not be as responsive as some newer transmissions. The gear ratios are optimized for towing, providing ample low-end torque to get heavy loads moving. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, this gasoline V8 offers less torque but a lower initial purchase price and potentially lower maintenance costs. Compared to the 6.2L gasoline engine, the 6.0L offers a more balanced approach to power and economy, lacking the peak horsepower of the 6.2L but providing a broader, more usable torque curve.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long Box configuration of the Silverado 3500 HD II typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The LT trim, which was a common configuration for this engine/transmission pairing, added features such as cloth upholstery, a more advanced audio system, and chrome exterior trim. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample space for passengers, making it a popular choice for families and work crews.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II utilizes a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension consists of an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This combination provides a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The dual rear wheel (DRW) configuration of this specific variant further enhances stability and braking performance when towing heavy trailers. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its strong towing capacity, comfortable interior, and relatively affordable price. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy was not as good as that of the Duramax diesel engine. Compared to the diesel, the gasoline V8 offered a lower upfront cost and simpler maintenance, making it an attractive option for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in towing performance. The 6.0L V8 was often seen as a good compromise between power, cost, and reliability.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0L V8 engine, paired with the 6L90E automatic transmission, has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain. While not as fuel-efficient as newer engines, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a robust and affordable heavy-duty truck. In the used car market, these Silverado 3500 HD II models are often sought after for their towing capacity and relatively low maintenance costs. Properly maintained examples continue to provide years of reliable service, making them a solid value for buyers looking for a capable work truck.
