The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Double Cab Long Bed, equipped with the 6.6-liter V8 engine producing 401 horsepower and paired with a 4WD DRW Automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2020 to 2023, this variant occupied a key position within the fourth generation (T1XX) Silverado HD lineup, catering to buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities alongside passenger comfort. This configuration was aimed at professionals and enthusiasts needing a robust work truck without sacrificing everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Double Cab Long Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 V8 (401 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 401 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 629 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 463.93 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L8T |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm / 4.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm / 3.86 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l / 8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.1 l / 15.96 US qt | 13.29 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3293 kg / 7259.82 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 6350 kg / 13999.35 lbs. |
| Max load | 3057 kg / 6739.53 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2364 l / 83.48 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l / 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 7380 kg / 16270.11 lbs. |
| Length | 6514 mm / 256.46 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2457 mm / 96.73 in. |
| Height | 2037 mm / 80.2 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4127 mm / 162.48 in. |
| Front track | 1731 mm / 68.15 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1905 mm / 75 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 264 mm / 10.39 in. |
| 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, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 355×40 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 275/70 R18; 275/65 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Silverado 3500 HD IV is the 6.6-liter L8T V8 gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, overhead valve (OHV) design featuring direct fuel injection and variable valve timing (VVT). The L8T produces 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 464 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design contribute to its durability and ease of maintenance. The Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission is the sole transmission option for this configuration. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and ability to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. The transmission is electronically controlled, optimizing shift points for both performance and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.6L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination delivers a balance of power and usability. While not as quick as some lighter-duty trucks, the Silverado 3500 HD provides ample power for towing and hauling heavy loads. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for low-end torque, making it easy to get a heavily loaded truck moving. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the gasoline V8 offers a more responsive feel at higher RPMs, but lacks the diesel’s superior low-end torque and fuel economy. The ride quality, even unladen, is reasonably comfortable thanks to the independent front suspension and leaf spring rear suspension.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD IV offered various trim levels, with the 6.6L V8/automatic combination available on most. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The Double Cab configuration provided ample space for passengers, while the Long Bed offered a generous cargo capacity.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD IV utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension features 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 equipment. The Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) configuration significantly increases stability and load-carrying capacity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD IV with the 6.6L V8 engine was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its robust construction, comfortable interior, and ample power. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, particularly when compared to the diesel-powered models. The gasoline V8 offered a lower initial cost than the diesel, making it an attractive option for buyers who didn’t require the diesel’s maximum towing capacity or fuel efficiency. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty, the Silverado 3500 HD offered a competitive combination of features, performance, and value.
Legacy
The L8T 6.6L V8 engine and Hydra-Matic transmission pairing in the Silverado 3500 HD IV has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not as fuel-efficient as the diesel options, it has earned a reputation for durability and ease of maintenance. In the used car market, these trucks remain popular choices for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty work truck. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. The Silverado 3500 HD IV continues to be a workhorse for many owners, demonstrating the enduring quality of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup.
