The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD II (GMT900) Regular Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2007 to 2010, this variant occupied a crucial position in the American full-size pickup market, catering to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capabilities without the expense or complexity of diesel options. It was part of the GMT900 series, a generation known for its robust construction and focus on work-truck practicality. This configuration, with its gasoline-powered V8 and six-speed automatic, aimed to provide a balance between power, affordability, and ease of use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD II (GMT900) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 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 | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.5 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 | 2379 kg, 5244.8 lbs |
| Max. weight | 4173 kg, 9199.89 lbs |
| Max load | 1794 kg, 3955.09 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2138 l, 75.5 cu. ft |
| Fuel tank capacity | 129 l, 34.08 US gal | 28.38 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg, 13000.66 lbs |
| Length | 5708 mm, 224.72 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm, 80 in |
| Height | 1939 mm, 76.34 in |
| Wheelbase | 3378 mm, 132.99 in |
| Front track | 1744 mm, 68.66 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1676 mm, 65.98 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 243 mm, 9.57 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.8 m, 45.28 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 245/75 R16; 265/75 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 2500 HD variant lies the Vortec LY6 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a member of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, is a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance. The LY6 utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and features a 9.6:1 compression ratio. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. This torque output was particularly important for heavy-duty applications. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis, driving the rear wheels. Paired with the LY6 is the Hydra-Matic 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission offered improved fuel economy and smoother shifting compared to older four-speed automatics, while still providing the robustness needed for heavy-duty truck applications. The 6L80E features electronic control and adaptive shift strategies.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0-liter V8 and 6L80E automatic combination delivered a capable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and towing, but it wasn’t as quick as the available diesel options. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, providing ample low-end torque. However, this also meant that the engine could feel somewhat strained at higher speeds. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The automatic also smoothed out power delivery, making it easier for less experienced drivers to manage heavy loads. Compared to the more expensive and fuel-efficient Duramax diesel, this gasoline-powered variant offered a lower initial cost but at the expense of fuel economy and ultimate towing capacity.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 2500 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. The Regular Cab configuration meant a bench seat for up to three occupants. Optional extras included power windows and locks, upgraded audio systems, and various towing packages. The long box configuration provided ample cargo space, making it ideal for hauling building materials or equipment. Trim levels were relatively basic, focusing on functionality rather than luxury. The emphasis was on providing a durable and reliable work truck at a competitive price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500 HD II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring rigid axle configuration. This setup was designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride, even when unladen. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. Steering was accomplished via a cone worm with recirculation balls system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0-liter V8/automatic Silverado 2500 HD II was generally well-received by buyers who needed a heavy-duty truck but didn’t want to pay the premium for a diesel engine. Critics noted its strong towing capacity and relatively affordable price. However, fuel economy was a common complaint, as the gasoline V8 was significantly less efficient than the Duramax diesel. Compared to the diesel variants, this configuration offered a lower initial cost but higher operating costs due to fuel consumption. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the fuel injectors and cooling system.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD II (GMT900) with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market today. Its robust construction and relatively simple mechanicals make it a relatively easy and affordable truck to maintain. The Vortec LY6 engine is known for its durability, and parts are readily available. While not as fuel-efficient as newer trucks, it provides a capable and reliable workhorse for those needing a heavy-duty pickup. The 6L80E transmission, while occasionally requiring maintenance, is generally considered a durable unit. These trucks continue to be valued for their ability to handle demanding tasks and their relatively low cost of ownership compared to more modern alternatives.
