2017-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Long Box 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (445 Hp) DRW Automatic

Technical Specifications

The 2017-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine and Allison automatic transmission, represented a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced during this period, this variant occupied a premium position within the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, targeting buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities alongside a degree of comfort and refinement. The “DRW” (Dual Rear Wheel) configuration was also available, further enhancing stability and payload capacity. This truck was part of the third generation (K2XX platform) of the Silverado/Sierra HD trucks, known for their increased strength and improved technology compared to previous generations. It directly competed with Ford’s Super Duty and Ram’s heavy-duty trucks in the North American market.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The core of this Silverado 3500 HD is the Duramax L5P 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8. This engine is a substantial evolution of the Duramax design, built around a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a robust rotating assembly. The L5P utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion efficiency. A turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, significantly increases air intake, boosting both power and torque output. The engine generates 445 horsepower at 2800 rpm and a remarkable 910 lb-ft of torque at 1600 rpm. The Allison 1000 Series six-speed automatic transmission is specifically engineered to handle the high output of the Duramax engine. This transmission is renowned for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics, critical for heavy towing and hauling applications. It features electronically controlled shifts and a lock-up torque converter to improve fuel economy during highway cruising.

Driving Characteristics

The combination of the high-torque Duramax engine and the Allison transmission delivers impressive performance. While not designed for rapid acceleration, the Silverado 3500 HD excels at accelerating even when heavily loaded. The Allison transmission’s gear ratios are carefully optimized for towing, providing ample power in each gear. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offers significantly more low-end torque, making it ideal for hauling trailers and heavy equipment. Compared to earlier Duramax variants, the 445 hp version offered a noticeable increase in power, improving acceleration and overall responsiveness. The DRW configuration contributes to a more stable and controlled driving experience, particularly when towing at or near its maximum capacity. The truck feels planted and confident, even with substantial weight in tow.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab Long Box with the Duramax engine typically came standard with a well-equipped interior. Standard features included cloth or leather upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, a Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the LTZ and High Country, added features like heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and various appearance packages. The Crew Cab configuration provides generous space for passengers, making it suitable for both work and family use. The long box provides ample cargo space for tools or other equipment.

Chassis & Braking

The K2XX platform features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid and rigid foundation for the truck. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration strikes a balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even with heavy loads. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The DRW configuration significantly increases the truck’s stability and braking performance when heavily loaded, distributing the weight more evenly across the rear axle.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax diesel engine generally received positive reviews from automotive critics. The engine was consistently praised for its power, torque, and refinement, while the Allison transmission was lauded for its durability and smooth operation. Fuel economy, while not exceptional for a vehicle of this size and capability, was considered reasonable. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offered superior towing and hauling capabilities, albeit at a higher initial cost. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported occasional issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common concern with modern diesel engines. Compared to Ford and Ram’s offerings, the Silverado 3500 HD was often seen as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of performance, features, and value.

Legacy

The Duramax L5P engine and Allison transmission pairing has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain combination. These trucks continue to hold their value in the used car market, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The 2017-2019 Silverado 3500 HD represents a high point in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck development, offering a capable and comfortable work truck that can handle even the most demanding tasks. The engine’s longevity and the transmission’s robustness make it a desirable choice for buyers seeking a long-lasting and dependable heavy-duty truck. Its reputation for reliability and capability ensures it remains a popular choice for those needing a powerful and dependable work truck for years to come.