The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Crew Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8 engine and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2011 to 2014 as part of the GMT900 platform’s facelift, this variant aimed to balance robust capability with a degree of comfort and refinement for the American truck buyer. It occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering a substantial increase in towing and payload capacity over the 2500HD series, while remaining more accessible than the diesel-powered options within the 3500HD range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.6 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 | 3054 kg, 6732.92 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4990 kg, 11001.07 lbs. |
| Max load | 1936 kg, 4268.15 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%) | 5897 kg, 13000.66 lbs. |
| Length | 6581 mm, 259.09 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1979 mm, 77.91 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4260 mm, 167.72 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm, 8.39 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.7 m, 54.79 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, 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 GM’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 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. This power is channeled through a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its durability and smooth shifting. The transmission was specifically tuned for heavy-duty applications, with gear ratios optimized for towing and hauling. 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 varying terrain and load conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0-liter V8 and six-speed automatic combination delivers a capable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. While not as quick as lighter-duty trucks or those equipped with the optional diesel engine, the Silverado 3500 HD II provides ample power for everyday driving and demanding tasks. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, and the VVT helps to maintain a reasonable level of fuel economy for a vehicle of this size and weight. Compared to manual transmission versions, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or when towing. However, it does sacrifice some driver control and potentially a slight amount of fuel efficiency. The truck’s substantial weight and long wheelbase contribute to a comfortable ride, but also result in noticeable body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long Box configuration offered a spacious interior with seating for five passengers. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II features a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads and demanding conditions. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This combination provides a good balance of ride comfort and 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 and control during emergency braking situations. The truck’s steering system utilizes a cone worm with recirculation balls, offering a solid and predictable feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its strong towing capacity, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy was relatively poor compared to diesel-powered alternatives. Compared to the Duramax diesel engine option, the 6.0-liter V8 offered a lower initial cost but significantly less torque and fuel efficiency. The gasoline engine was often favored by buyers who did not require the extreme towing capacity of the diesel and preferred the simpler maintenance requirements.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable powertrain. While not without its potential issues (such as Active Fuel Management system problems in some cases), it is generally considered a robust engine capable of handling high mileage with proper maintenance. Today, used Silverado 3500 HD II models with this engine configuration remain popular among buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. Their relatively lower price point compared to diesel models makes them an attractive option for those who prioritize value and simplicity over maximum towing capacity and fuel economy.
