The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular Cab Long Bed, equipped with the 6.6-liter V8 engine producing 401 horsepower and paired with a 4WD Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2020 to 2023, this configuration occupied a crucial position within the fourth generation (T1XX) Silverado HD lineup, catering to buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities. This particular variant was aimed at professionals and individuals needing a robust work truck without the added complexity or cost of higher trim levels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular Cab Long Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 V8 (401 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 401 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 629 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 463.93 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L8T |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm / 4.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm / 3.86 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l / 8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt |
| Coolant | 14.6 l / 15.43 US qt | 12.85 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3092 kg / 6816.69 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 6350 kg / 13999.35 lbs. |
| Max load | 3258 kg / 7182.66 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l / 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 7579 kg / 16708.83 lbs. |
| Length | 5982 mm / 235.51 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2457 mm / 96.73 in. |
| Height | 2038 mm / 80.24 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3595 mm / 141.54 in. |
| Front track | 1731 mm / 68.15 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1905 mm / 75 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 266 mm / 10.47 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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, 355×40 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 275/70 R18; 275/65 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2020-2023 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD IV, in its Regular Cab Long Bed configuration with the 6.6L V8 and 4WD DRW automatic, was a workhorse designed for demanding tasks. Built on the T1XX platform, this generation of Silverado HD trucks represented a significant step forward in capability and refinement. The DRW setup (Dual Rear Wheels) specifically targets users who regularly tow extremely heavy loads, providing increased stability and payload capacity. This variant served as a robust, no-frills option for commercial users, farmers, and anyone needing a serious towing machine.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the Chevrolet L8T 6.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a descendant of the long-running Duramax-derived small-block V8 family, but differs from the diesel offerings. The L8T utilizes direct fuel injection, a variable valve timing (VVT) system, and an overhead valve (OHV) configuration. These features contribute to a balance of power, torque, and efficiency. The engine produces 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 464 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine. This transmission is known for its durability and ability to handle high torque loads. The 4WD system is a traditional part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed. The DRW configuration adds a second wheel on each side of the rear axle, significantly increasing the truck’s load-carrying capacity and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD with this powertrain configuration delivers a driving experience focused on capability rather than outright speed. The 6.6L V8 provides ample power for everyday driving and towing, but it’s not as responsive as some of the newer turbocharged engines found in competing trucks. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth shifts and adequate gear spacing. However, it can sometimes feel a bit dated compared to transmissions with more gears. The DRW setup contributes to a firmer ride, especially when unladen, but it significantly improves stability when towing heavy loads. The steering is precise, but requires a bit more effort than some modern steering systems. Overall, this variant prioritizes functionality and durability over a refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Bed configuration typically represents the base level of the Silverado 3500 HD lineup. Standard equipment generally includes air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and vinyl upholstery. The Work Truck (WT) trim, common for this configuration, focuses on essential features for commercial use. Optional extras could include upgraded infotainment systems, power windows and locks, and various towing packages. Interior appointments are functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The focus is on providing a comfortable and efficient workspace for the driver.
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, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring configuration. This combination provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, measuring 355×40 mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The DRW configuration adds significant stability, but also increases the truck’s overall weight and turning radius.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Silverado 3500 HD for its robust construction, impressive towing capacity, and user-friendly controls. However, some reviewers noted that the 6.6L V8 engine lacked the refinement and fuel efficiency of some of the newer turbocharged engines offered by competitors like Ford and Ram. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the gasoline variant offered a lower initial cost but higher fuel consumption, especially when towing. The gasoline engine was often seen as a good option for users who didn’t require the extreme towing capacity of the diesel models and preferred a simpler, less expensive powertrain.
Legacy
The L8T 6.6L V8 engine and the 6L90 transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. While not as fuel-efficient as some newer engines, they are known for their durability and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, the 2020-2023 Silverado 3500 HD with this configuration represents a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. These trucks are often found in the hands of contractors, farmers, and individuals who need a reliable workhorse for demanding tasks. The DRW configuration ensures continued demand from those requiring maximum towing and payload capacity.
