The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD II, specifically the Extended Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2007 to 2010 as part of the GMT900 generation, this variant was aimed at buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without sacrificing everyday usability. It occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 2500 HD lineup, offering a balance between capability and relative affordability compared to the diesel-powered options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 2500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 2500 HD II (GMT900) Extended Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 132.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 190 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 | 2711 kg, 5976.73 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4173 kg, 9199.89 lbs. |
| Max load | 1462 kg, 3223.16 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%) | 5579 kg, 12299.59 lbs. |
| Length | 6330 mm, 249.21 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm, 80 in. |
| Height | 1946 mm, 76.61 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4001 mm, 157.52 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) | 16 m, 52.49 ft. |
| 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, 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD II, built on the GMT900 platform, represented a substantial redesign for Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck line. Introduced in 2007, it aimed to improve upon the previous generation in terms of capability, refinement, and interior space. The Extended Cab Long Box configuration provided a useful compromise between cargo capacity and passenger room, making it suitable for both work and family use. The 6.0-liter Vortec LY6 V8 engine paired with a four-wheel drive system and a Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was a popular choice, offering a balance of power, towing capacity, and relative fuel efficiency within the 2500 HD range.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 2500 HD variant lies the Vortec LY6 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, known for its robust construction and reliable performance. The LY6 features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery and is equipped with an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. This torque output is crucial for heavy towing and hauling. The engine’s 9.6:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between power and efficiency. The Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this configuration. This transmission was chosen for its ability to handle the engine’s torque output and provide smooth, efficient shifting. The 4WD system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive high, and four-wheel drive low for optimal traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 2500 HD II with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission delivers a driving experience focused on capability rather than outright speed. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but the truck truly shines when put to work. The automatic transmission provides smooth shifts, and the 6-speed design helps keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the 6.0-liter V8 offers less torque, resulting in slightly lower towing capacity and potentially more strain during heavy loads. However, the V8 is significantly less expensive to purchase and maintain. The gear ratios in the Hydra-Matic transmission are tuned for towing, providing ample low-end torque for pulling heavy trailers. The four-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable work truck in all weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 2500 HD II offered a range of trim levels, with the base Work Truck (WT) model being the most common for this engine/transmission combination. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as LT and LTZ, added features like cloth or leather upholstery, power windows and locks, cruise control, and upgraded audio systems. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The Extended Cab configuration provided a small rear seat, suitable for occasional passengers. The Long Box bed offered ample cargo space for hauling materials or equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 2500 HD II features a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone components, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, offering excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The truck’s heavy-duty frame and suspension components contribute to its overall stability and durability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0-liter V8-powered Silverado 2500 HD II was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its strong engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. However, it was often compared unfavorably to the Duramax diesel engine in terms of towing capacity and fuel economy. The V8 offered a more affordable entry point into the heavy-duty truck market, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate towing capability. Fuel economy was typical for a heavy-duty truck, averaging around 14-16 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the active fuel management system, which deactivated cylinders to improve fuel economy.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD II with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market today. Its robust construction and reliable powertrain make it a durable and capable work truck. While the Duramax diesel models command a higher price, the 6.0-liter V8 offers a more affordable alternative. The Vortec LY6 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. These trucks are often sought after by contractors, farmers, and anyone needing a heavy-duty truck for work or recreational purposes. The GMT900 platform proved to be a solid foundation for Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck line, and the 6.0-liter V8 variant continues to be a viable option for buyers seeking a capable and affordable work truck.
