The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Crew Cab Standard 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, this model falls within the GMT900 platform’s facelifted generation. It was designed to cater to owners requiring substantial towing and payload capacity, bridging the gap between work and personal use. This particular variant, equipped with the Vortec L96 engine and a Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and relative affordability compared to the diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 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 | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.8 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 | 2998 kg, 6609.46 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4899 kg, 10800.45 lbs. |
| Max load | 1901 kg, 4190.99 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1718 l, 60.67 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 | 6101 mm, 240.2 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm, 80 in. |
| Height | 1966 mm, 77.4 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) | 15.4 m, 50.52 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 engine, a 6.0-liter (364 cubic inches) V8. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The L96 utilizes an iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It features a 9.6:1 compression ratio and a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, coupled with variable valve timing (VVT), helps optimize performance and efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The Hydra-Matic 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability, offering a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The 6L80E features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive, contributing to improved highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0-liter V8 and 6L80E automatic combination provided a capable, though not exceptionally sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and towing, but it lacked the punch of the available Duramax diesel engine. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for towing and hauling, prioritizing low-end torque over rapid acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, it did result in a slight reduction in fuel economy and a less direct connection to the engine. The four-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and off-road conditions, making it a versatile choice for owners who needed to navigate challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD II Crew Cab Standard Box 6.0L 4WD 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 five passengers, making it suitable for families or work crews. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium audio system, navigation, a rear vision camera, and various towing packages. Trim levels varied, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and convenience features. The standard box length provided a good balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II featured a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar and double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed a traditional rigid axle with leaf springs. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The front brakes measured 355×40 mm, while the rear brakes were 373×34 mm. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, providing a stable and predictable driving experience.
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 capability, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, it was often criticized for its fuel economy, which was lower than that of the diesel options. Compared to the Duramax diesel, the 6.0-liter V8 offered less torque and lower towing capacity, but it was also more affordable to purchase and maintain. The gasoline engine also avoided the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel emissions systems.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 engine and 6L80E transmission pairing proved to be a reliable and durable combination. While not as fuel-efficient as newer powertrains, these components have a reputation for longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, the Silverado 3500 HD II with this configuration remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty pickup truck. Its simplicity and robust construction make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain and repair, ensuring its continued relevance for years to come.
