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, the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 397 horsepower, a single rear wheel (SRW) setup, four-wheel drive (4WD), and an Allison automatic transmission, occupied a crucial position within the Silverado HD range. It catered to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the added complexity or cost of dual rear wheels. This configuration was aimed at professionals and individuals requiring a robust work truck capable of handling demanding tasks.
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) SRW 4WD 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 | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 335.5 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 | 3091 kg (6814.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5171 kg (11400.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 2080 kg (4585.62 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 | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2011-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, particularly the Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.6L Duramax diesel and Allison automatic, was a workhorse designed for serious tasks. This generation (GMT900) represented a significant upgrade over its predecessor, focusing on increased capability, refinement, and a more modern interior. The facelift in 2011 brought revised styling, improved materials, and enhanced features. Positioned as a step up from the gasoline-powered options and the lighter-duty 2500HD series, this 3500HD variant offered the highest towing and payload capacities within the Silverado lineup, short of the dual-rear-wheel (DRW) models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II lies the Duramax LML 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty offerings, is renowned for its durability and torque output. The LML iteration introduced several improvements over previous Duramax engines, including a redesigned combustion chamber, enhanced fuel injection system, and a more robust cooling system. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The valvetrain employs an overhead valve (OHV) configuration, favored for its simplicity and reliability. The Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission is specifically engineered to handle the immense torque produced by the Duramax engine. This transmission features a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency and a heavy-duty cooling system to prevent overheating under demanding conditions. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving, providing a balance between power and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.6L Duramax and Allison automatic delivers a driving experience focused on capability rather than outright speed. While the 397 horsepower is respectable, the true strength lies in the 1037 lb-ft of torque available at a relatively low 1600 rpm. This translates to effortless towing and hauling, even with substantial loads. The Allison transmission shifts smoothly and decisively, providing ample power for merging and passing. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500HD models, the diesel offers significantly more low-end torque, making it far more capable when towing. Compared to manual transmission equipped Duramax models, the automatic provides ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, but may sacrifice a small degree of fuel efficiency. The long wheelbase and heavy-duty suspension contribute to a comfortable ride, even when unladen, although it’s not as nimble as lighter-duty trucks.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box Silverado 3500 HD II with the Duramax/Allison combination typically came standard with a relatively basic level of equipment, reflecting its work-truck orientation. Standard features included air conditioning, a basic audio system, vinyl upholstery, and manual windows and locks. However, buyers could opt for a range of optional extras, including power windows and locks, a premium audio system, leather upholstery, heated seats, and a navigation system. Trim levels varied, but generally included Work Truck (WT), LT, and LTZ. The WT trim was the most basic, while the LT added more comfort and convenience features, and the LTZ represented the most luxurious option. The Long Box configuration provided ample cargo space, making it ideal for hauling large items.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II features a robust chassis designed to withstand the stresses of heavy-duty use. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, offering excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when towing. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering system utilizes a cone worm with recirculation balls, offering a solid and predictable feel. The single rear wheel (SRW) configuration provides a good balance between stability and maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2014 Silverado 3500 HD II with the Duramax/Allison combination was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its immense towing and hauling capacity, its durable powertrain, and its comfortable ride. Compared to the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty trucks of the same era, the Silverado 3500 HD II offered a competitive combination of capability, refinement, and value. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for heavy-duty truck buyers, was generally considered to be acceptable for a vehicle of this size and capability. Reliability was also a strong point, with the Duramax/Allison powertrain proving to be exceptionally durable.
Legacy
The Duramax LML engine and Allison 1000 transmission combination found in this Silverado 3500 HD II have proven to be exceptionally reliable over the long term. These trucks continue to be highly sought after on the used car market, particularly by those needing a capable and dependable work truck. Properly maintained examples can easily exceed 200,000 miles with minimal issues. The GMT900 platform, while superseded by newer generations, remains a popular choice for those seeking a robust and affordable heavy-duty truck. The 2011-2014 refresh solidified the Silverado 3500 HD’s reputation as a leading contender in the heavy-duty truck segment.
