The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Crew Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2007 through 2010 (GMT900 platform), this variant was aimed at buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity combined with the comfort of a crew cab. It occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering a balance between capability and everyday usability, positioned above the base work trucks and below the more specialized or diesel-powered models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4200 rpm, 379.84 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Vortec LY6 |
| Engine displacement | 5967 cm3, 364.13 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm, 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.5 l, 16.38 US qt | 13.64 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2905 kg, 6404.43 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 5171 kg, 11400.1 lbs. |
| Max load | 2266 kg, 4995.67 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2170 l, 76.63 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 129 l, 34.08 US gal | 28.38 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5352 kg, 11799.14 lbs. |
| Length | 6572 mm, 258.74 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1931 mm, 76.02 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4242 mm, 167.01 in. |
| Front track | 1742 mm, 68.58 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1897 mm, 74.69 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 233 mm, 9.17 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 325×38 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 325×30 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 225/75 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900) Crew Cab Long Box, powered by the 6.0-liter Vortec LY6 V8 and paired with a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, was a key offering in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup from 2007 to 2010. This generation represented a significant step forward in terms of interior refinement, ride quality, and capability compared to its predecessors. The “II” designation signifies a mid-cycle refresh that brought updated styling and some mechanical improvements. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample passenger space, making it suitable for both work and family use, while the Long Box offered a generous cargo bed for hauling. This particular variant was designed to appeal to customers who needed a powerful and capable truck but didn’t necessarily require the higher cost and complexity of a diesel engine.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II lies the Vortec LY6 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, known for its robust construction and reliable performance. The LY6 features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery and is equipped with an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was a crucial component, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. This transmission was designed to handle the high torque output of the 6.0L V8 and offered a wider gear ratio spread compared to older four-speed automatics, improving both acceleration and fuel economy. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, providing ample low-end torque for demanding tasks.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as some of the lighter-duty pickups, it provided ample power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly and responsively, making it easy to navigate both city streets and highway miles. The wider gear ratios of the six-speed transmission helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, even when hauling heavy loads. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual transmission generally provided slightly better fuel economy and a more direct connection to the engine. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the 6.0L V8 offered a quieter and smoother ride, but lacked the diesel’s superior towing capacity and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD II Crew Cab Long Box 6.0L Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and durable, with a focus on providing a comfortable and practical work environment. The Crew Cab configuration offered generous rear seat legroom, making it ideal for carrying passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II featured a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. It utilized an independent torsion bar suspension in the front and a rigid axle suspension with leaf springs in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent load-carrying capacity. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes, reflecting the weight distribution of the truck. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and ample power. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy was not as good as some of its competitors, particularly the diesel-powered trucks. Compared to the Duramax diesel engine option, the 6.0L V8 offered a lower initial cost but sacrificed towing capacity and fuel efficiency. The 6.0L V8 was often seen as a good choice for buyers who primarily used their trucks for local hauling and occasional towing, while the diesel was preferred by those who needed maximum towing capacity and long-distance fuel economy.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900) with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market today. The Vortec LY6 engine is known for its reliability and durability, and the six-speed Hydra-Matic transmission has proven to be a robust and dependable unit. While older models may require some maintenance, they generally offer a good value for the money. These trucks are often sought after by buyers who need a capable and reliable work truck without the higher cost and complexity of a diesel engine. The GMT900 platform laid the groundwork for future generations of Silverado HD trucks, and the 6.0L V8 continues to be a popular engine option in Chevrolet’s lineup.
