The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 397 horsepower and paired with an Allison automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2017, this variant occupied a premium position within the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, targeting buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities alongside a comfortable, well-equipped cabin. It was part of the third generation of the K2XX platform, known for its enhanced strength and refinement compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (397 Hp) DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 298.9 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) |
| 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 | 29.7 l (31.38 US qt | 26.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3469 kg (7647.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5908 kg (13024.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 2439 kg (5377.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2162 l (76.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 9072 kg (20000.34 lbs.) |
| Length | 6563 mm (258.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2438 mm (95.98 in.) |
| Height | 1976 mm (77.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 4259 mm (167.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1748 mm (68.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1906 mm (75.04 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm (8.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 17 m (55.77 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| 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, 355×40 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 | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab Long Box with the 6.6L Duramax diesel and Allison automatic transmission was designed to be a workhorse. It built upon the foundation laid by the K2XX platform, introduced in 2014, which prioritized increased strength, improved ride quality, and enhanced interior refinement. This particular configuration, featuring the dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setup, was specifically geared towards customers needing maximum towing and payload capacity. The Crew Cab configuration offered ample passenger space, making it suitable for both work and family use. This truck represented Chevrolet’s response to increasing demands for capable and comfortable heavy-duty trucks in the American market.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the Duramax LML 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine. This engine is a testament to diesel engineering, featuring a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a robust rotating assembly. The LML iteration of the Duramax introduced a revised turbocharger, improved fuel injection system, and enhanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system for increased efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimal combustion. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while seemingly traditional, is known for its durability and simplicity. The Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission is a critical component, specifically engineered to handle the immense torque output of the Duramax engine. This transmission features a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy 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 with the Duramax/Allison combination delivers a driving experience that prioritizes capability over outright speed. While 397 horsepower is respectable, the true strength lies in the engine’s 1037 lb-ft of torque. This massive torque output provides effortless acceleration, even when towing heavy loads. The Allison transmission shifts smoothly and decisively, providing seamless power delivery. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offers significantly more low-end grunt and superior towing capacity. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of control as a manual transmission, but it excels in providing a relaxed and comfortable driving experience, especially during long hauls. The DRW configuration enhances stability when towing, but it also widens the vehicle’s footprint, requiring more careful maneuvering in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD offered a range of trim levels, with the Duramax/Allison combination typically found on LTZ and High Country models. Standard features on these trims included a premium cloth or leather interior, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Optional extras included a navigation system, a Bose premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column. The Crew Cab configuration provided generous passenger space, with ample legroom and headroom for all occupants. The Long Box bed offered a substantial amount of cargo space, making it ideal for hauling large items.
Chassis & Braking
The K2XX platform features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck’s substantial weight and towing capacity. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, offering a comfortable ride and precise handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when heavily loaded. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The DRW configuration contributes to increased braking stability and reduced brake fade when towing.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2015-2017 Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax/Allison powertrain was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and impressive towing capacity. Compared to its rivals, such as the Ford Super Duty and Ram 3500, the Silverado 3500 HD offered a competitive combination of performance, features, and value. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for heavy-duty truck buyers, was respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system.
Legacy
The Duramax LML engine and Allison 1000 transmission have proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable powertrains. Well-maintained examples of the 2015-2017 Silverado 3500 HD continue to command strong resale values in the used car market. The combination of power, capability, and comfort makes these trucks a popular choice for buyers seeking a heavy-duty workhorse. The K2XX platform laid the groundwork for future generations of Silverado HD trucks, and the Duramax/Allison combination remains a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup. These trucks are often sought after by those needing a dependable and capable vehicle for demanding tasks, solidifying their place as a significant chapter in Chevrolet’s truck history.
