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 SRW Automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2020 to 2023, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500HD lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology aimed at buyers needing serious towing and hauling capacity without the expense of the highest trim levels. It was part of the fourth generation (T1XX) of the Silverado HD series, known for its increased strength and refinement over its predecessors.
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 SRW 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 | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.9 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 | 3162 kg / 6971.02 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 5171 kg / 11400.1 lbs. |
| Max load | 2009 kg / 4429.09 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%) | 7484 kg / 16499.4 lbs. |
| Length | 6514 mm / 256.46 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2079 mm / 81.85 in. |
| Height | 2054 mm / 80.87 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4127 mm / 162.48 in. |
| Front track | 1731 mm / 68.15 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1736 mm / 68.35 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 284 mm / 11.18 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 | Disc, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17; 245/75 R17; 275/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2020-2023 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Double Cab Long Bed with the 6.6L V8 and 4WD automatic transmission was a workhorse designed for the American market. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Silverado 3500HD lineup, it slotted between the base model with the smaller gasoline engine and the more expensive diesel-powered variants. This configuration aimed to provide a robust towing and hauling experience for owners who didn’t require the ultimate power of the Duramax diesel but still needed a heavy-duty truck capable of significant work. The T1XX platform brought improvements in chassis rigidity and interior refinement, making it a more comfortable and capable daily driver alongside its work capabilities.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500HD lies the Chevrolet L8T 6.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a descendant of the long-running Vortec V8 series, but with significant updates including direct injection and variable valve timing (VVT). Direct injection improves fuel efficiency and power output, while VVT optimizes engine performance across a wider RPM range. The engine produces 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 629 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting, and its gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving. The transmission features electronically controlled shifting and tow/haul mode, which alters shift points to maximize engine braking and reduce gear hunting when towing heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500HD 6.6L V8 Automatic delivers a confident and capable driving experience. While not as quick as some of its lighter-duty counterparts, the engine provides ample torque for accelerating with moderate loads or navigating challenging terrain. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, and the tow/haul mode is particularly effective when towing trailers. The 6L90 transmission’s gear ratios are well-suited for maintaining engine RPMs in the optimal power band while towing. Compared to the manual transmission option, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual transmission provides more direct control and potentially slightly better fuel economy. Compared to the diesel variants, the 6.6L gasoline engine is noticeably quieter and offers quicker throttle response, but lacks the diesel’s immense low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab Long Bed configuration offered a spacious interior with seating for five passengers. 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, such as the LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and a variety of trailering packages. The Double Cab configuration provided ample rear-seat legroom, making it suitable for both work and family use. The Long Bed offered a generous cargo capacity, ideal for hauling large items.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500HD features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for heavy-duty use. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This combination provides a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with larger rotors and calipers on the front axle. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering system is a hydraulic rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The 4WD system allows for on-demand engagement of the front axle, providing enhanced traction in slippery conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500HD 6.6L V8 Automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its strong towing and hauling capabilities, comfortable ride, and user-friendly features. However, some reviewers noted that the gasoline engine’s fuel economy was lower than that of the diesel variants. Compared to the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty trucks, the Silverado 3500HD offered a competitive combination of features, performance, and price. The gasoline engine provided a more affordable entry point into the heavy-duty truck segment, while the diesel engines catered to buyers who prioritized maximum towing capacity and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The L8T 6.6L V8 engine and 6L90 transmission have proven to be relatively reliable powertrains. While not immune to occasional issues, they are generally known for their durability and longevity. In the used car market, the 2020-2023 Silverado 3500HD 6.6L V8 Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. Its balance of power, comfort, and technology makes it a versatile option for a wide range of applications, from work to recreation. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission fluid flushes, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
