The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 397 horsepower and paired with an Allison automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2017, this variant occupied a premium position within the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, targeting buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities alongside a comfortable, crew cab interior. It was part of the third generation of the K2XX platform, known for its enhanced strength and refinement compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (397 Hp) SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 322.2 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) |
| 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 | 22.4 l (23.67 US qt | 19.71 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3218 kg (7094.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5035 kg (11100.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1817 kg (4005.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1728 l (61.02 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 | 6083 mm (239.49 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2045 mm (80.51 in.) |
| Height | 1990 mm (78.35 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) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15.8 m (51.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 265/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab with the 6.6L Duramax diesel and Allison automatic transmission was a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck offerings. Built on the K2XX platform, this generation represented a significant step forward in terms of capability, refinement, and interior space. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample room for passengers, making it suitable for both work and family use. This particular variant, with its potent diesel engine and smooth-shifting automatic, was designed to excel at demanding tasks like towing large trailers, hauling heavy loads, and providing a comfortable driving experience even under strenuous conditions. It sat at the top of the Silverado 3500 HD range, offering a balance of power, luxury, and practicality.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado 3500 HD is the Duramax LML 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine. This engine is a testament to diesel engineering, featuring a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a robust crankshaft. The LML engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimal combustion efficiency and power output. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, forces more air into the engine, further enhancing performance. The engine’s valvetrain employs an overhead valve (OHV) configuration, known for its durability and simplicity. The Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission is specifically designed to handle the immense torque produced by the Duramax engine. This transmission features electronically controlled shifts and a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The transmission’s robust construction ensures reliable operation even under heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax/Allison combination delivers a driving experience that is both powerful and refined. The 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for accelerating with a load or tackling steep grades. The Allison transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, minimizing gear hunting and providing a comfortable ride. While not as quick as lighter-duty trucks, the Silverado 3500 HD feels surprisingly agile for its size. Compared to the 6.0L gasoline V8 option, the Duramax diesel offers significantly more torque, making it the preferred choice for heavy towing and hauling. Compared to the 6.6L diesel with a manual transmission, the Allison automatic provides a more relaxed and convenient driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The gear ratios are optimized for towing, providing strong pulling power at lower engine speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab with the Duramax engine typically came well-equipped, even in its base trim. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a tilt steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels, such as LTZ and High Country, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and a rear-vision camera. Optional extras included a sunroof, a power-adjustable steering column, and various towing packages. The interior design focused on functionality and durability, with comfortable seating and easy-to-use controls.
Chassis & Braking
The K2XX platform chassis provided a solid foundation for the Silverado 3500 HD. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar and double wishbone design, offering a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even with a heavy load. The front brakes measured 355x40mm, while the rear brakes were 373x34mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax/Allison combination received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and impressive towing and hauling capabilities. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was considered reasonable for a heavy-duty truck of its size. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram 3500, the Silverado 3500 HD offered a competitive combination of features, performance, and value. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system.
Legacy
The Duramax LML engine and Allison transmission pairing in the 2015-2017 Silverado 3500 HD has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain. These trucks continue to hold their value in the used car market, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The LML Duramax is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. While the DPF system can require occasional maintenance, the overall reliability of this powertrain is considered excellent. These trucks remain a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and dependable heavy-duty workhorse.
