The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 engine producing 315 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2007 through 2014, this variant occupied a crucial middle ground within the Silverado 1500 lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. It was part of the second generation of the Silverado (commonly referred to as the GMT900 series), a generation known for its improved interior space, enhanced ride quality, and more refined styling compared to its predecessor. This particular configuration – the Crew Cab with a standard bed paired with the 5.3L engine and a four-speed automatic transmission – was a popular choice for families and individuals needing a versatile truck for both work and personal use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Generation | Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 (315 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 190.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 315 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 458 Nm @ 4400 rpm, 337.8 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LH6 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3, 325.13 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 16 l, 16.91 US qt | 14.08 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2400 kg, 5291.09 lbs |
| Max. weight | 3500 kg, 7716.18 lbs |
| Max load | 1100 kg, 2425.08 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l, 25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal |
| Length | 6025 mm, 237.2 in |
| Width | 2024 mm, 79.69 in |
| Height | 1956 mm, 77.01 in |
| Wheelbase | 3886 mm, 152.99 in |
| Front track | 1730 mm, 68.11 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm, 67.01 in |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado variant is the 5.3-liter LH6 V8 engine. This engine, a member of Chevrolet’s Small-Block family, is a naturally aspirated, three-valve-per-cylinder design. It utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability and relatively lightweight construction. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s 315 horsepower and 458 lb-ft of torque are respectable figures for its time, offering a good balance of power for towing, hauling, and everyday driving. The engine is longitudinally mounted, sending power rearward. Paired with the 5.3L is a four-speed automatic transmission (likely the 4L60E), chosen for its reliability and ease of use. While not the most technologically advanced transmission available at the time, it provided smooth shifts and adequate performance for the intended application.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab 5.3L Automatic delivers a driving experience geared towards practicality and comfort. Acceleration is adequate, though not particularly brisk, with 0-60 mph times typically falling in the 7.5-8.5 second range. The four-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, lacks the efficiency and responsiveness of more modern transmissions with higher gear counts. The gear ratios are tuned for towing and hauling, prioritizing low-end torque over outright speed. Compared to the 6.2L V8 option, the 5.3L feels noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded. However, it offers a significant fuel economy advantage. Compared to the Duramax diesel options, the 5.3L provides a quieter and smoother ride, but lacks the diesel’s immense towing capacity and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab configuration, standard on this model, provided generous interior space, comfortably seating up to six passengers. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. The Silverado 1500 offered a range of trim levels, with the base WT (Work Truck) being the most utilitarian, followed by the LT and LTZ trims offering increasing levels of luxury and convenience. The 5.3L engine was available on all trim levels. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium audio system, navigation, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The standard box length (approximately 6.5 feet) provided a good balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs leaf springs. This setup is designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride. Brakes are disc brakes up front and drum brakes in the rear – a common configuration for trucks of this era. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The rear drum brakes, while cost-effective, offered less stopping power and fade resistance compared to rear disc brakes, which were available on higher trim levels or as an option.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab 5.3L Automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and capable engine. However, some reviewers noted the four-speed automatic transmission felt dated compared to competitors offering five or six-speed automatics. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, typically ranging from 15-20 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Silverado offered a competitive package, with a strong emphasis on value and practicality. The 5.3L engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, making this variant a popular choice in the used car market.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 II Crew Cab 5.3L Automatic has proven to be a durable and reliable truck, with many examples still on the road today. The LH6 engine is known for its longevity, provided it receives regular maintenance. While the four-speed automatic transmission is not as efficient as modern transmissions, it is generally reliable. In the used car market, these Silverados represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. They are often sought after by those needing a work truck or a family vehicle with ample space and towing capacity. The GMT900 platform laid the groundwork for future Silverado generations, and the 5.3L V8 remains a popular engine choice in Chevrolet trucks to this day.
