The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the 2011-2014 model year iteration based on the GMT900 platform, represented a significant refresh of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup. This variant, configured with a Regular Cab, Long Box, 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower, a 6-speed automatic transmission, and a four-wheel-drive Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) setup, was positioned as a workhorse solution for owners requiring substantial towing and payload capacity. It served as a crucial offering in the American full-size pickup truck market, catering to commercial users, farmers, and individuals with demanding hauling needs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 122.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.6 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 L96 |
| 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, VVT |
| 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 | 2949 kg, 6501.43 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 6078 kg, 13399.7 lbs. |
| Max load | 3129 kg, 6898.26 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2138 l, 75.5 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6259 kg, 13798.73 lbs. |
| Length | 5715 mm, 225 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1966 mm, 77.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3369 mm, 132.64 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1906 mm, 75.04 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm, 8.58 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.9 m, 45.6 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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, 373×34 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 | 6.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2011-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, particularly the Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0L V8 and 4WD DRW, represented a significant update to the GMT900 platform. Introduced as a facelift to the second-generation Silverado HD trucks, this version focused on improving capability, refinement, and interior features. The DRW configuration, with its dual rear wheels, was specifically designed for owners needing maximum stability and payload capacity when towing heavy trailers. This trim level sat firmly in the middle of the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering a balance between capability and cost, appealing to both commercial and private users.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II was the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a staple of Chevrolet trucks for many years, is a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design featuring variable valve timing (VVT) for improved efficiency and performance. The L96 utilized multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder. The engine produced 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. Paired with this engine was the Hydra-Matic 6L90E six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was known for its durability and smooth shifting, offering a wide gear ratio spread to optimize both towing performance and fuel economy. The 6L90E featured electronically controlled shifting and a tow/haul mode to enhance performance when towing heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination in the Silverado 3500 HD II delivered a robust, if not particularly refined, driving experience. While not as quick as lighter-duty Silverado models, the 360 horsepower and substantial torque provided ample power for towing and hauling. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were well-suited for heavy loads, providing strong acceleration from a standstill and maintaining comfortable cruising speeds on the highway. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, this gasoline V8 offered a lower initial cost but significantly less torque and lower fuel economy, especially when towing. Compared to the 6.0L with a manual transmission, the automatic provided greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, but at the expense of some driver control and potentially slightly reduced fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0L V8 typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Upholstery was typically vinyl or cloth. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, power-adjustable seats, a navigation system, and various towing packages. The LT trim level, a popular upgrade, added features like chrome exterior trim, upgraded interior materials, and additional convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II featured a heavy-duty chassis designed to withstand the stresses of heavy hauling. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar and double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring rigid axle configuration. This setup provided a comfortable ride, even when the truck was heavily loaded. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The DRW configuration significantly increased stability, especially when towing. The rear track width was wider than standard Silverado 3500 HD models to accommodate the dual rear wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2014 Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0L V8 and 4WD DRW received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its robust towing capacity and durable powertrain. However, the gasoline engine’s fuel economy was often criticized, particularly compared to the available Duramax diesel. The diesel offered significantly more torque and better fuel efficiency, but at a higher purchase price. The 6.0L V8 DRW model was seen as a good value for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate towing performance of the diesel but still needed a capable and reliable heavy-duty truck.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0L V8 engine, paired with the 6L90E automatic transmission, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain combination. While not as fuel-efficient as newer engines, these trucks remain relatively common on the used car market. The GMT900 platform Silverado 3500 HD II DRW models are still sought after by owners who need a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. Maintenance is generally straightforward, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the fuel pump and cooling system, as these are common failure points in older Silverado HD trucks.
