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, and a four-wheel-drive (4WD) system paired with an automatic transmission, occupied a crucial position within the Silverado 3500 HD range. It catered to buyers needing substantial towing and payload capacity without the added complexity or cost of higher trim levels. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling, interior appointments, and some mechanical refinements compared to the pre-facelift GMT900 trucks.
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 SRW 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 | 7.7 kg/Hp, 130.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.4 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 | 2763 kg, 6091.37 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4854 kg, 10701.24 lbs. |
| Max load | 2091 kg, 4609.87 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%) | 5897 kg, 13000.66 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 | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm, 8.58 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.7 m, 44.95 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, in its Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission, was a work-focused truck designed for owners prioritizing capability over luxury. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the 3500 HD lineup, it slotted below the diesel-powered models and higher trim levels like the LTZ. The GMT900 platform, extensively revised for 2011, provided a robust foundation for heavy hauling and towing. This facelift brought updated styling cues, improved interior materials, and enhancements to the truck’s overall refinement. The Regular Cab configuration, combined with the long bed, maximized cargo space and utility, making it a popular choice for commercial users and those needing a dedicated work truck.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II variant lies 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 low-end torque. The L96 utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this configuration. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. The 6L80E features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive for highway efficiency. The 4WD system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive high, and four-wheel drive low ranges.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0-liter V8 and 6L80E automatic combination provided a balance of power and usability. While not as potent as the Duramax diesel engine, the L96 offered ample power for most towing and hauling tasks. Acceleration was adequate, but the truck’s substantial weight (2763 kg / 6091.37 lbs) limited its responsiveness. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing, providing strong low-end torque. However, this came at the expense of fuel economy. Compared to manual transmission equipped Silverado 3500 HDs, the automatic offered greater convenience but slightly reduced fuel efficiency. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in challenging conditions, making it suitable for off-road use and inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box 6.0L V8 4WD Silverado 3500 HD typically came standard with features like air conditioning, a basic audio system, vinyl upholstery, and manual windows and locks. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Optional extras included power windows and locks, upgraded audio systems, cruise control, and a trailer towing package. The exterior featured black bumpers and grille, and steel wheels were standard. Higher trim levels, like the LT, added features such as cloth upholstery, carpeting, and chrome exterior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II utilized a robust chassis designed for heavy-duty applications. The front suspension featured an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone components, 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) as standard equipment. The front brakes measured 355×40 mm, while the rear brakes were 373×34 mm. The braking system was adequately sized for the truck’s weight and towing capacity.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Silverado 3500 HD II for its robust construction, strong towing capacity, and comfortable ride. The 6.0-liter V8 engine was considered a capable performer, although it lacked the fuel efficiency and sheer power of the Duramax diesel. Compared to the diesel models, the 6.0L V8 offered a lower initial purchase price and simpler maintenance requirements. However, the diesel engines provided significantly better fuel economy and towing performance. The Silverado 3500 HD also competed with trucks from Ford and Ram, each offering their own strengths and weaknesses. The Silverado was often lauded for its comfortable interior and user-friendly controls.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine, paired with the 6L80E automatic transmission, proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain combination. While not as sought-after as the diesel variants, these trucks remain popular in the used market, particularly among buyers seeking a capable and affordable work truck. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and inspection of the cooling system. The GMT900 platform is known for its longevity, and well-maintained examples can provide many years of reliable service. The 2011-2014 Silverado 3500 HD II represents a solid and dependable heavy-duty truck that continues to serve a wide range of owners today.
