The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2007 to 2010 (GMT900 platform), this variant was positioned as a robust work truck, offering a balance of capability, power, and affordability within the Silverado 3500 HD lineup. It catered to owners needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the added cost and complexity of higher trim levels. This model year marked a substantial redesign for the Silverado HD series, focusing on increased strength and improved interior refinement compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 138.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197.8 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 | 2603 kg, 5738.63 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4490 kg, 9898.76 lbs. |
| Max load | 1887 kg, 4160.12 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%) | 5670 kg, 12500.21 lbs. |
| Length | 5714 mm, 224.96 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1919 mm, 75.55 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3378 mm, 132.99 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) | 13.8 m, 45.28 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, 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 | 6.5J x 17; 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 is equipped with a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering a respectable 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine’s overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while traditional, proved to be exceptionally reliable and easy to maintain. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The powertrain is coupled with a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, designed to handle the substantial torque output of the V8. This transmission offered smooth shifting and contributed to the truck’s overall usability, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0-liter V8 and six-speed automatic combination in the Silverado 3500 HD II provided a capable, though not particularly sporty, driving experience. The emphasis was clearly on work capability. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but the truck truly shined when put to task. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing, providing ample low-end torque for pulling heavy trailers. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the 6.0L V8 offered less torque but a significantly lower initial cost. Compared to the 4.8L V8, the 6.0L provided a noticeable increase in power and towing capacity. The ride quality, typical of a heavy-duty truck, was firm, but the torsion bar front suspension and leaf spring rear suspension provided a reasonable level of comfort even when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD II in this configuration typically came standard with basic work-truck features. This included a vinyl interior, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Power windows and locks were often optional. The Regular Cab configuration meant a bench seat for up to three occupants, though the focus was on functionality rather than luxury. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, cruise control, and various towing packages. The exterior trim was generally minimal, reflecting the truck’s utilitarian purpose.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II featured a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear employed a traditional leaf spring rigid axle configuration. This setup provided a good balance of load-carrying capacity and ride quality. 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 slightly smaller at 325×30 mm. This braking system provided adequate stopping power, even when the truck was heavily loaded.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by truck buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty option. Critics noted its strong towing capacity and reliable powertrain. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, as expected with a large-displacement V8. Compared to the diesel-powered Silverado 3500 HD, the 6.0L V8 offered a lower purchase price but significantly less torque and fuel efficiency. However, the 6.0L engine was generally considered more affordable to maintain, lacking the complex emissions systems found on the Duramax diesel.
Legacy
The Vortec LY6 6.0-liter V8 and Hydra-Matic transmission pairing in the Silverado 3500 HD II has proven to be remarkably durable over the long term. These trucks are still commonly found in use today, often with high mileage. The engine is known for its reliability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. While not as fuel-efficient as newer trucks, the Silverado 3500 HD II remains a popular choice for those seeking a dependable and capable work truck in the used market. Parts availability is generally good, and the truck’s straightforward design makes it relatively easy to repair and maintain.
