The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Crew Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 397 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2011 to 2014, this variant falls within the GMT900 platform’s facelifted generation, offering a blend of robust capability, improved refinement, and diesel-specific features aimed at the demanding North American truck market. This particular trim level positioned itself as a premium offering within the 3500 HD range, catering to owners requiring substantial towing and hauling capacity alongside a comfortable and well-equipped cabin.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (397 Hp) 4WD SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 306.6 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) |
| Maximum engine speed | 3000 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 | 24 l (25.36 US qt | 21.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3382 kg (7456.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5262 kg (11600.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1880 kg (4144.69 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%) | 5897 kg (13000.66 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 | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.7 m (54.79 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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, 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 Duramax LML 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine. This engine represents a significant evolution of the Duramax design, incorporating a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) for improved responsiveness and efficiency. The LML featured a redesigned combustion chamber, stronger connecting rods, and a more robust cooling system compared to its predecessors. The engine utilizes a high-pressure common rail fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while traditional, proved durable and reliable. The Allison 6-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned for the heavy-duty application, provides smooth and efficient power delivery. This transmission is known for its durability and ability to handle the high torque output of the Duramax engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque produced by this combination resulted in impressive towing and hauling capabilities. While not as overtly quick as gasoline-powered counterparts, the Duramax offered a broad torque curve, providing strong acceleration even when heavily loaded. The Allison transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both towing and highway cruising. In real-world conditions, this Silverado 3500 HD II excelled at tasks requiring substantial pulling power, such as hauling large trailers or heavy payloads. Compared to the 6.0L gasoline V8 option, the Duramax offered significantly more torque and better fuel economy, especially under load. However, the gasoline engine provided quicker acceleration when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long Box configuration, combined with the Duramax engine, typically came with a generous level of standard equipment. This included features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a premium audio system, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a navigation system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and various towing packages. The interior design focused on functionality and durability, with a spacious cabin and easy-to-use controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II featured a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The heavy-duty suspension and braking system were crucial for maintaining stability and control when towing or hauling heavy loads.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2014 Silverado 3500 HD II with the Duramax engine received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. Fuel economy was considered good for a heavy-duty truck, especially when compared to gasoline-powered alternatives. However, some reviewers noted the relatively high price tag and the engine’s initial complexity. Compared to the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty trucks of the same era, the Silverado 3500 HD II offered a competitive combination of capability, refinement, and reliability. The Duramax engine was often cited as a key advantage, providing superior torque and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Duramax LML engine, paired with the Allison transmission, has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable powertrain. Properly maintained, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. In the used car market, the 2011-2014 Silverado 3500 HD II with the Duramax engine commands a premium price due to its reputation for longevity and capability. These trucks remain popular among owners who require a heavy-duty workhorse for towing, hauling, and demanding tasks. The combination of power, reliability, and comfort has solidified its place as a highly sought-after vehicle in the heavy-duty truck segment.
