The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Double Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel drive (4WD) Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2019, this variant occupied a crucial position in the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, catering to buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities without sacrificing everyday usability. It was part of the third generation (K2XX platform) of the Silverado/Sierra HD trucks, known for their enhanced strength, refinement, and technology compared to previous generations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Double Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.2 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 | 16.1 l, 17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3195 kg, 7043.77 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 5908 kg, 13024.91 lbs. |
| Max load | 2713 kg, 5981.14 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2162 l, 76.35 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6169 kg, 13600.32 lbs. |
| Length | 6321 mm, 248.86 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2438 mm, 95.98 in. |
| Height | 1972 mm, 77.64 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4017 mm, 158.15 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1906 mm, 75.04 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm, 8.46 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.1 m, 52.82 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, 355×40 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 variant lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a staple in Chevrolet’s truck lineup for many years, is a naturally aspirated, overhead valve (OHV) design featuring variable valve timing (VVT). The L96 utilizes multi-port fuel injection to deliver fuel to the cylinders, optimizing combustion for both power and efficiency. The engine’s robust cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads contribute to its durability and longevity. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and ability to handle the high torque output of the L96, crucial for heavy-duty applications. The 4WD system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to seamlessly switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, enhancing traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination in the Silverado 3500 HD offered a balance between power and usability. While not as quick as some of the diesel-powered variants, the 360 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque provided ample power for towing and hauling substantial loads. The automatic transmission, while smooth, was tuned for durability rather than outright performance. Gear ratios were optimized for towing, resulting in a slightly lower first gear for improved launch capability with heavy trailers. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel, this gasoline engine offered a more responsive feel at lower RPMs, but lacked the diesel’s immense low-end torque. The DRW configuration further enhanced stability when towing, distributing the load more evenly across the rear axle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD Double Cab Long Box with the 6.0L V8 typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and High Country, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a trailer brake controller, a fifth-wheel hitch, and various appearance packages. The Double Cab configuration provided comfortable seating for five passengers, making it suitable for both work and family use.
Chassis & Braking
The K2XX platform Silverado 3500 HD featured a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for heavy-duty use. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration balanced ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when heavily loaded. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0L V8-powered Silverado 3500 HD was generally well-received by critics and consumers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. It offered a compelling alternative to the more expensive diesel options, particularly for those who didn’t require the diesel’s maximum towing capacity. Fuel economy, however, was a notable drawback compared to the diesel variants. Reliability was generally good, although the L96 engine was known to be susceptible to oil consumption issues in some cases. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel, the 6.0L V8 offered a lower initial cost but higher long-term operating costs due to fuel consumption and potential maintenance needs.
Legacy
The Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) with the 6.0L V8 and 6-speed automatic remains a popular choice in the used truck market today. Its robust construction and relatively simple mechanical design make it a relatively easy truck to maintain. While the diesel variants command higher prices, the 6.0L V8 offers a more affordable entry point into the heavy-duty truck segment. The powertrain, while not without its quirks, has proven to be reasonably durable, and parts availability remains good. This variant represents a sweet spot for buyers seeking a capable and reliable work truck without the complexity and cost of a diesel engine.
