The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular 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 configuration occupied a key position within the fourth generation (T1XX) Silverado HD lineup, catering to buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities without necessarily opting for the highest trim levels or diesel power. This variant was primarily aimed at the American market, where full-size, heavy-duty trucks are a staple for both commercial and personal use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular 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 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 212.4 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 | 14.6 l / 15.43 US qt | 12.85 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2961 kg / 6527.89 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 5035 kg / 11100.27 lbs. |
| Max load | 2074 kg / 4572.39 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l / 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 7688 kg / 16949.14 lbs. |
| Length | 5982 mm / 235.51 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2076 mm / 81.73 in. |
| Height | 2056 mm / 80.94 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3595 mm / 141.54 in. |
| Front track | 1731 mm / 68.15 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1736 mm / 68.35 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 285 mm / 11.22 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, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 265/70 R17; 245/75 R17; 275/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD variant lies the Chevrolet L8T 6.6-liter V8 gasoline engine. This engine is a member of the Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The L8T features direct fuel injection, a variable valve timing (VVT) system, and an overhead valve (OHV) configuration. These features contribute to a balance of power and efficiency, although it doesn’t match the torque output of the available Duramax diesel engine. The engine produces 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 464 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission is the sole transmission option for this configuration. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics, and is well-suited to the demands of heavy-duty truck operation. The transmission is electronically controlled, optimizing shift points based on vehicle load and driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.6L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeable, if not overwhelming, level of performance. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but the truck’s substantial weight is always apparent. Compared to the diesel variants, the gasoline engine requires more frequent downshifting when towing or hauling heavy loads. The Hydra-Matic transmission provides smooth and predictable shifts, but lacks the responsiveness of some newer transmissions. The gear ratios are optimized for towing, with a relatively low first gear for maximizing pulling power. However, this can result in a higher engine speed at highway cruising speeds, impacting fuel economy. The 4WD system provides enhanced traction in challenging conditions, making it suitable for both on- and off-road use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular Cab Long Bed with the 6.6L V8 and automatic transmission typically served as a work-oriented trim. Standard features generally included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, vinyl upholstery, and manual windows and locks. Higher trim levels, such as the LT, added features like power windows and locks, upgraded interior materials, and more advanced infotainment options. Optional extras included a trailer brake controller, a rearview camera, and various towing packages. The regular cab configuration prioritized functionality over passenger comfort, making it ideal for commercial users or those who primarily used the truck for work-related tasks.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD utilizes a robust body-on-frame construction, providing a solid foundation for heavy-duty applications. The front suspension features an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration prioritizes load-carrying capacity and durability over ride comfort. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when heavily loaded. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The truck’s steering system utilizes a hydraulic power steering setup, offering a responsive and predictable feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.6L V8-equipped Silverado 3500 HD received mixed reviews. Critics acknowledged its capable towing and hauling abilities, but often pointed to the lower fuel economy compared to the diesel options. The gasoline engine was seen as a more affordable entry point into the heavy-duty truck segment, appealing to buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in towing capacity or fuel efficiency. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel, the gasoline engine offered significantly less torque, resulting in reduced towing capacity and increased strain on the engine when hauling heavy loads. However, the gasoline engine was generally considered more reliable and less expensive to maintain than the diesel.
Legacy
The L8T 6.6L V8 engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with few widespread issues reported. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 transmission is also known for its durability. In the used car market, these Silverado 3500 HD models represent a cost-effective option for buyers seeking a capable heavy-duty truck. While the diesel variants command a higher price, the gasoline-powered models offer a compelling value proposition for those who prioritize affordability and simplicity. The combination of a robust engine, durable transmission, and solid chassis ensures that these trucks remain capable workhorses for years to come.
