The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900) Crew Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2007 to 2010, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and affordability for buyers needing serious towing and hauling capacity. It was part of the GMT900 generation, a substantial redesign that focused on improving interior space, ride quality, and overall refinement compared to its predecessors. This particular configuration – the Crew Cab with the long bed, 6.0L V8, and automatic transmission – was a popular choice for both commercial users and private owners seeking a versatile and powerful truck.
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) SRW 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 | 7.9 kg/Hp, 125.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 180 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 | 2861 kg, 6307.43 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4490 kg, 9898.76 lbs. |
| Max load | 1629 kg, 3591.33 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%) | 5443 kg, 11999.76 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 | 1676 mm, 65.98 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 233 mm, 9.17 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.8 m, 55.12 ft. |
| 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 | 265/75 R16; 225/75 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
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 utilizes a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It features a 9.6:1 compression ratio and utilizes multi-port fuel injection for precise fuel delivery. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while a more traditional design, proved to be exceptionally dependable. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. Paired with the 6-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, the powertrain was designed to handle the demands of heavy towing and hauling. The Hydra-Matic transmission offered smooth shifts and provided adequate gear ratios for both on-road driving and work-related tasks.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission combination delivered a capable, though not particularly sporty, driving experience. The truck’s substantial weight (2861 kg / 6307.43 lbs) meant acceleration wasn’t its strong suit, but the engine’s ample torque provided strong pulling power. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as responsive as a manual transmission, and downshifts could sometimes be hesitant when fully loaded. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the 6.0L V8 offered significantly less torque, making it less ideal for extremely heavy loads. However, it was more affordable and simpler to maintain. The long bed configuration provided a stable platform for hauling, and the rear suspension, while leaf spring-based, offered a reasonably comfortable ride even when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD II Crew Cab Long Box with the 6.0L V8 typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. The Crew Cab configuration offered spacious seating for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families or work crews. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and a navigation system. Trim levels varied, but generally included Work Truck (WT), LT, and LTZ. The LT trim added features like chrome exterior trim, upgraded interior materials, and additional convenience items. The LTZ was the most luxurious trim, offering premium leather, woodgrain accents, and a host of other upscale features.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II utilized a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads. The front suspension featured an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a relatively comfortable ride. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design, which was well-suited for hauling and towing. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The front brakes measured 325×38 mm, while the rear brakes were 325×30 mm. Steering was accomplished via a cone worm with recirculation balls system.
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 strong towing capacity, comfortable interior (especially in Crew Cab form), and relatively affordable price point. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 3500 HD, the 6.0L V8 offered lower fuel costs when not towing, but significantly less torque and towing capacity. The gasoline engine also required more frequent maintenance, such as oil changes. However, the 6.0L V8 was considered a reliable and durable engine, and its simpler design made it easier and less expensive to repair than the diesel alternative.
Legacy
The Vortec LY6 6.0L V8 engine, when paired with the Hydra-Matic transmission, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the long run. While not without its potential issues (such as Active Fuel Management system problems in some cases), the engine is generally known for its durability and longevity. Today, used Silverado 3500 HD II models with this powertrain are readily available and often represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the continued reliability of these trucks, and regular inspections of the cooling system and oil levels are particularly important.
