The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax TD V8 engine producing 445 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2017 to 2019, this variant occupied a premium position within the K2XX Silverado 3500 HD lineup, catering to buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities alongside a comfortable, crew cab interior. It was a key player in the competitive North American heavy-duty truck market, directly challenging offerings from Ford and Ram.
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 (445 Hp) SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 375.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 445 Hp @ 2800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1234 Nm @ 1600 rpm (910.15 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax L5P |
| Engine displacement | 6604 cm3 (403 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 | 29.7 l (31.38 US qt | 26.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3290 kg (7253.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5035 kg (11100.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1745 kg (3847.07 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15.8 m (51.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels. |
| 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, 360 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 | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2017-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III Crew Cab with the 6.6L Duramax diesel and automatic transmission was a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck offerings. Built on the K2XX platform, introduced in 2015, this generation represented a significant step forward in terms of capability, refinement, and technology. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample passenger space, making it suitable for both work and family use, while the standard box offered a practical cargo bed length. This particular variant was positioned as a premium offering, bridging the gap between the base work trucks and the fully-loaded luxury trims.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the Duramax L5P 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 rotating assembly. The L5P utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, delivering highly pressurized fuel directly into the cylinders for efficient combustion. The engine produces 445 horsepower at 2800 rpm and a massive 910 lb-ft (1234 Nm) of torque at 1600 rpm. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain contributes to the engine’s durability and low-end torque characteristics. The engine is paired with a heavy-duty 6-speed Allison automatic transmission, specifically tuned to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. This transmission features electronically controlled shifts and a tow/haul mode for optimized performance when towing heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax/Allison combination delivers a driving experience focused on capability and confidence. While not a sports truck, the engine’s immense torque provides effortless acceleration, even when heavily loaded. The Allison transmission shifts smoothly and decisively, providing ample power for merging onto highways and climbing steep grades. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offers significantly more torque, making it the preferred choice for demanding towing applications. Compared to manual transmission equipped Duramax models, the automatic provides ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or for drivers less familiar with manual transmissions. The gear ratios are optimized for towing, with lower gears providing ample pulling power and higher gears allowing for efficient highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD III Crew Cab Standard Box 6.6 Duramax TD V8 Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system, and a rearview camera. 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 advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and various appearance packages. The interior design prioritized functionality and durability, with comfortable seating and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD features a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar and double wishbone setup, providing a comfortable ride and stable handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The rear axle configuration is Single Rear Wheel (SRW), suitable for most heavy-duty towing needs.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax diesel and Allison automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for heavy-duty truck buyers, was considered competitive within the segment. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offered superior towing capacity and fuel efficiency, albeit at a higher initial cost. Reliability was generally good, although diesel engines can be more expensive to maintain than gasoline engines due to the complexity of the fuel injection system and emissions controls.
Legacy
The Duramax L5P engine and Allison transmission combination has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. These trucks continue to hold their value well in the used car market, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The 2017-2019 Silverado 3500 HD III represents a sweet spot in the K2XX generation, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology. The L5P Duramax engine remains a highly sought-after powerplant for those requiring a powerful and dependable diesel truck.
