The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Long Box, specifically equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 445 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2017 to 2019, 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 (K2XX platform) of the Silverado/Sierra HD trucks, known for their increased strength, refined interiors, and advanced technology compared to previous generations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 TD V8 (445 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 337.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 445 Hp @ 2800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1234 Nm @ 1600 rpm (910.15 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax L5P |
| Engine displacement | 6604 cm3 (403 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 | 3661 kg (8071.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5908 kg (13024.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 2247 kg (4953.79 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 17 m (55.77 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, 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 2017-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab Long Box with the 6.6L Duramax diesel and Allison automatic transmission was a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck offerings. Built on the K2XX platform, this generation represented a significant leap forward in terms of capability, refinement, and technology. The “HD” designation signifies “Heavy Duty,” indicating its purpose-built design for demanding tasks like commercial hauling, large-scale towing, and heavy payload applications. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample passenger space, while the Long Box offered a generous cargo bed length. This particular variant, with its powerful diesel engine and robust transmission, was aimed at customers who needed serious performance without sacrificing daily drivability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the Duramax L5P 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine. This engine is a testament to modern diesel technology, featuring a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a robust rotating assembly designed for longevity. The L5P utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion and efficiency. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air intake, boosting power and torque output. The engine produces 445 horsepower at 2800 rpm and a massive 910 lb-ft (1234 Nm) of torque at 1600 rpm. The Allison 1000 Series 6-speed automatic transmission is specifically engineered to handle the immense torque produced by the Duramax engine. It features a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy and a heavy-duty cooling system to prevent overheating under strenuous conditions. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving, providing a balance of power and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD with this powertrain configuration delivers a commanding driving experience. While not designed for sporty handling, the truck offers a surprisingly comfortable ride, especially considering its heavy-duty nature. The Allison transmission shifts smoothly and decisively, providing ample power for accelerating with or without a load. The 6-speed automatic’s gear ratios are well-suited for both highway cruising and low-speed towing. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the diesel variant offers significantly more torque, making it far superior for hauling heavy trailers or payloads. Compared to other diesel trims, like those with manual transmissions, the automatic provides ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual transmission versions generally offer slightly better fuel economy and a more direct connection to the engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD III Crew Cab Long Box 6.6 TD V8 (445 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic typically came well-equipped, even in its base trim. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system. Higher trim levels, such as the LTZ and High Country, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and various towing packages. The interior design focused on functionality and durability, with comfortable seating and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The K2XX platform chassis is a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck’s heavy-duty capabilities. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This combination provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when towing heavy loads. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The dual rear wheel (DRW) configuration further enhances stability and load-carrying capacity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax diesel and Allison automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, comfortable ride, and impressive towing and hauling capabilities. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was considered reasonable for a heavy-duty truck of its size and capability. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty, the Silverado 3500 HD was often seen as offering a good balance of performance, refinement, and value. The diesel variant consistently outperformed the gasoline-powered models in terms of towing and payload capacity, making it the preferred choice for customers with demanding needs.
Legacy
The Duramax L5P engine and Allison 1000 Series transmission have proven to be exceptionally reliable powertrains. Well-maintained examples of the 2017-2019 Silverado 3500 HD continue to command strong resale values in the used car market. The L5P engine is known for its durability and longevity, and the Allison transmission is widely regarded as one of the most robust automatic transmissions available. These trucks remain popular choices for those seeking a capable and dependable heavy-duty workhorse, and are often sought after by contractors, farmers, and anyone who needs to tow or haul heavy loads on a regular basis.
