The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2011 to 2014, this variant falls within the GMT900 platform’s facelifted generation, offering a blend of work-focused capability and improved refinement compared to earlier models. This particular trim level served as a robust work truck option, positioned below the more luxurious LT and High Country trims, appealing to buyers prioritizing towing capacity and payload over premium features. The dual rear wheel (DRW) configuration further enhanced its hauling capabilities, making it a popular choice for commercial users and those requiring substantial towing power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 183.6 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 L96 |
| 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, VVT |
| 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 | 2805 kg, 6183.97 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 6078 kg, 13399.7 lbs. |
| Max load | 3273 kg, 7215.73 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2138 l, 75.5 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6395 kg, 14098.56 lbs. |
| Length | 5715 mm, 225 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1966 mm, 77.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3369 mm, 132.64 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1906 mm, 75.04 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 224 mm, 8.82 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.9 m, 45.6 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, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 373×34 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 | 6.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD II lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a staple of Chevrolet’s truck lineup for many years, is a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery and features variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency across the rev range. The L96 produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration are typical for heavy-duty trucks. Paired with the L96 is the Hydra-Matic 6L90E six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was known for its durability and smooth shifting, providing adequate gear ratios for both towing and everyday driving. The 6L90E’s electronic control system allowed for adaptive shifting, adjusting to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination in the Silverado 3500 HD II delivered a capable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The engine provided ample low-end torque, crucial for hauling heavy loads and navigating challenging terrain. While the horsepower figure was respectable, the truck’s substantial weight (approximately 6,184 lbs) meant acceleration was moderate. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine option, the 6.0L V8 offered less torque and lower fuel economy, but it was significantly less expensive to purchase and maintain. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were well-suited for towing, providing strong pulling power in lower gears. However, the transmission could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration, and downshifts weren’t as crisp as those found in manual transmission equipped models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box 6.0L Automatic Silverado 3500 HD II typically came standard with basic work truck features. This included vinyl upholstery, a basic audio system, air conditioning, and power windows and locks. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of commercial use. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, power-adjustable seats, cruise control, and a trailer brake controller. Exterior features typically included black steel wheels, a chrome grille, and basic lighting. The DRW configuration added significant width, requiring careful maneuvering in tight spaces.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II featured a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar and double wishbone setup, providing a comfortable ride despite the truck’s weight. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The DRW configuration provided increased braking capacity and stability when towing. Steering was accomplished via a cone worm with recirculation balls system, offering a direct, if somewhat heavy, steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2014 Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received as a capable and affordable work truck. Critics praised its towing capacity and payload, but noted that the gasoline engine lacked the fuel efficiency and sheer pulling power of the Duramax diesel. Compared to the diesel variant, the 6.0L V8 was significantly cheaper to purchase and maintain, making it an attractive option for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in towing performance. Fuel economy was typical for a heavy-duty truck, averaging around 12-15 mpg in mixed driving.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0L V8 engine, paired with the 6L90E automatic transmission, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not without its potential issues (such as Active Fuel Management system problems in some cases), these engines are generally known for their durability and longevity. Today, used Silverado 3500 HD II models with this powertrain are readily available and represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. The DRW configuration, in particular, remains popular among those who require substantial towing capacity. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the continued reliability of these trucks.
