The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Crew Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine and Allison automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2011 to 2014 as part of the GMT900 platform’s facelift, this variant was designed to cater to owners requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities without sacrificing interior space or comfort. It occupied a premium position within the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, offering a balance of power, refinement, and practicality for demanding tasks.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (397 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 290.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 397 Hp @ 3000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1037 Nm @ 1600 rpm (764.85 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 3000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax LML |
| Engine displacement | 6599 cm3 (402.7 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 24 l (25.36 US qt | 21.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3568 kg (7866.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5897 kg (13000.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 2329 kg (5134.57 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%) | 8164 kg (17998.54 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 | 1906 mm (75.04 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.9 m (55.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Allison |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2011-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II Crew Cab Long Box, powered by the 6.6-liter Duramax diesel and paired with the Allison automatic transmission, was a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck offerings. This model year represented a significant refresh of the GMT900 platform, introducing updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced functionality. The “II” designation signifies the facelifted version of the second-generation Silverado HD. Positioned as a premium trim, this configuration catered to buyers who needed a powerful and capable truck for work or recreational towing, while also desiring a comfortable and spacious cabin for passengers. The Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) configuration further enhanced its towing and hauling capacity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the Duramax LML 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine. This engine, a product of years of development by General Motors and Isuzu, is renowned for its durability and torque output. The LML iteration introduced several improvements over its predecessor, including a redesigned combustion chamber and enhanced fuel injection system. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while traditional, proved reliable and contributed to the engine’s robust nature. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to increase air density, boosting power and torque. The Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission is specifically designed to handle the immense torque produced by the Duramax engine. It features a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency and a heavy-duty cooling system to prevent overheating under strenuous conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque delivered by the Duramax engine and Allison transmission results in a driving experience focused on effortless power and towing capability. While not a performance-oriented truck, the Silverado 3500 HD offers ample acceleration for everyday driving, even when heavily loaded. The Allison transmission provides smooth and precise shifts, contributing to a comfortable ride. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD models, the Duramax diesel offers significantly more low-end torque, making it ideal for hauling heavy trailers or navigating challenging terrain. Compared to other Silverado 3500 HD trims, like those equipped with the 6.0L gasoline V8, this variant prioritized capability over fuel economy. The DRW configuration provides enhanced stability when towing, but can make maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging.
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 tilt steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels, such as LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and durable, with a focus on providing a comfortable and practical environment for both work and family use.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD II features a robust chassis designed to withstand the stresses of heavy-duty use. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when towing. The DRW configuration utilizes a wider track width, enhancing stability. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, improving braking performance in slippery conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax diesel and Allison transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty, the Silverado 3500 HD offered a competitive combination of features, performance, and value. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was reasonable for a heavy-duty truck of this size and capability. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the emissions control system.
Legacy
The Duramax LML engine and Allison transmission pairing in the Silverado 3500 HD II has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain. These trucks continue to hold their value in the used car market, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The LML Duramax is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and dependable heavy-duty truck. The GMT900 platform, while superseded by newer generations, remains a respected and capable platform, and these trucks are still commonly seen on roads and job sites today.
