The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, specifically the Extended 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 capability and everyday usability. It occupied a sweet spot in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, providing a substantial increase in towing and payload capacity over the 2500HD models, while remaining more accessible than the diesel-powered options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD II (GMT900, facelift 2011) Extended Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.5 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 | 2838 kg, 6256.72 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4854 kg, 10701.24 lbs. |
| Max load | 2016 kg, 4444.52 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 | 6337 mm, 249.49 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2436 mm, 95.91 in. |
| Height | 1966 mm, 77.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4018 mm, 158.19 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 221 mm, 8.7 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15.8 m, 51.84 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2011-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD II, in its Extended Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.0-liter V8, was a workhorse designed for owners needing substantial towing and hauling capabilities. Positioned above the 1500 and 2500HD models, and often chosen over the more expensive Duramax diesel, this variant offered a balance of power, cost, and relative simplicity. The “II” designation signifies the facelift introduced in 2011, featuring revised styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced features compared to the pre-2011 GMT900 models. Built on the GMT900 platform, it shared its core structure with the GMC Sierra 3500 HD.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s small-block V8 family, known for its durability and relatively straightforward design. The L96 features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, utilizing a 9.6:1 compression ratio and multi-port fuel injection. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while not as technologically advanced as overhead cam designs, contributes to the engine’s robustness and ease of maintenance. Variable valve timing (VVT) was incorporated to improve fuel efficiency and low-end torque. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm.
The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission was designed to handle the substantial torque output of the 6.0L V8 and provide smooth, reliable shifting. The gear ratios are optimized for towing and hauling, with a relatively deep first gear for quick acceleration from a standstill when loaded. The automatic transmission was a key selling point for many buyers who preferred the convenience over a manual transmission, especially in heavy-duty applications.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD with the 6.0L 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 engine has enough torque to comfortably tow heavy loads. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel, the 6.0L V8 offers less overall torque and lower fuel economy, but it is significantly less expensive to purchase and maintain. The automatic transmission, while convenient, can sometimes feel less responsive than a manual transmission, particularly when downshifting for engine braking on steep grades. The long wheelbase and heavy-duty suspension contribute to a comfortable ride, even when the truck is unloaded, but body roll is noticeable during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD II Extended Cab Long Box 6.0L V8 was typically offered in LT and Work Truck (WT) trim levels. The WT trim was the base model, featuring standard amenities such as air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The LT trim added features like cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and an upgraded audio system. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a navigation system, a rear vision camera, and a premium Bose audio system. The Extended Cab configuration provided additional storage space behind the front seats and offered a small, split-folding rear bench seat capable of accommodating passengers for short trips.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD utilizes a robust body-on-frame construction. The front suspension consists of 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. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system is a cone worm with recirculation balls, providing a solid and predictable feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0L V8-powered Silverado 3500 HD was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its strong towing and hauling capabilities, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price. However, it was often criticized for its lower fuel economy compared to the diesel-powered models. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel, the 6.0L V8 offered a significant cost savings upfront, but the diesel provided superior fuel economy and significantly more torque for demanding towing applications. The 6.0L V8 was a popular choice for owners who primarily used their trucks for occasional towing and hauling, or who preferred the simplicity and lower maintenance costs of a gasoline engine.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0L V8 engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While not without its potential issues (such as Active Fuel Management system problems in some years), it is generally considered a robust engine that can withstand years of heavy use. Today, used Silverado 3500 HD models equipped with this engine are readily available and offer a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. The 6.0L V8’s relative simplicity makes it easier and less expensive to maintain than the more complex diesel engines, making it a popular choice for owners who prefer to do their own repairs.
