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, 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 397 horsepower, a six-speed Allison automatic transmission, and a four-wheel-drive (4WD) Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) drivetrain, was positioned as a workhorse for demanding tasks like heavy towing and hauling. It catered to professionals and individuals requiring substantial capability in a full-size pickup truck. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling, interior appointments, and powertrain refinements aimed at improving performance and efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (397 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 | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 121.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 316.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 397 Hp @ 3000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1037 Nm @ 1600 rpm (764.85 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 3000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax LML |
| Engine displacement | 6599 cm3 (402.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 24 l (25.36 US qt | 21.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3277 kg (7224.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5897 kg (13000.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 2620 kg (5776.11 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%) | 7257 kg (15998.95 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 Allison |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II is the 6.6-liter Duramax LML turbo-diesel V8 engine. This engine represents a significant evolution of the Duramax design, incorporating a robust cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a sophisticated fuel injection system. The LML utilized a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion and reduced emissions. The engine also featured a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The OHV valvetrain, while traditional, was engineered for durability and low-end torque. Paired with this engine is the Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission, renowned for its durability and ability to handle high torque loads. This transmission was specifically calibrated for the Duramax engine, providing smooth and efficient shifting even under heavy loads. The 4WD system employed an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between 2WD, 4WD High, and 4WD Low depending on road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.6L Duramax with the Allison automatic in the Silverado 3500 HD II delivered a commanding driving experience. While not designed for outright speed, the engine produced a massive 764.85 lb-ft of torque, providing effortless acceleration even when towing heavy loads. The Allison transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both towing and highway cruising. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did result in a slight reduction in fuel economy compared to the available manual transmission. However, the convenience and ease of use were highly valued by many drivers. The DRW configuration provided enhanced stability when hauling or towing, and the robust suspension system minimized body roll and provided a relatively comfortable ride, even when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab, Long Box configuration of the Silverado 3500 HD II was typically offered in work-truck trims, focusing on functionality over luxury. Standard features included air conditioning, a basic audio system, vinyl upholstery, and manually adjustable seats. Optional extras included power windows and locks, a premium audio system, upgraded interior trim, and various towing packages. The interior was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, reflecting its intended use as a work truck. The dashboard layout was straightforward and functional, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II featured a heavy-duty chassis designed to withstand the stresses of heavy hauling and towing. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring configuration. This combination provided a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even with a heavy load. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2014 Silverado 3500 HD II with the Duramax/Allison combination was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its exceptional towing capacity, robust powertrain, and comfortable ride. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and torque. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty trucks, the Silverado 3500 HD II was often seen as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of capability, reliability, and value. However, some critics noted that the interior was less refined than some of its competitors.
Legacy
The Duramax LML engine and Allison transmission pairing in the Silverado 3500 HD II have proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. These trucks continue to be highly sought after in the used market, particularly by those needing a capable work truck. Properly maintained examples can accumulate hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues. The LML Duramax is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs, making it a popular choice for owners who prioritize reliability and long-term value. The Silverado 3500 HD II remains a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to building tough and capable trucks.
