The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Double Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 445 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2017 to 2019, this variant occupied a premium position within the Silverado 3500 HD lineup, targeting buyers requiring substantial towing and hauling capabilities combined with a degree of comfort and refinement. This model year marked a substantial refresh of the K2XX platform, focusing on improved strength, technology, and driver ergonomics. The “DRW” designation indicates a Dual Rear Wheel configuration, further enhancing its towing capacity and stability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Double Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (445 Hp) 4WD DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 345.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 445 Hp @ 2800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1234 Nm @ 1600 rpm (910.15 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax L5P |
| Engine displacement | 6604 cm3 (403 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 | 29.7 l (31.38 US qt | 26.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3573 kg (7877.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5908 kg (13024.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 2335 kg (5147.79 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%) | 9072 kg (20000.34 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.1 m (52.82 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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, 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 | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Introduction
The 2017-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Double Cab Long Box with the 6.6L Duramax engine and Allison automatic transmission represented Chevrolet’s answer to the growing demand for heavy-duty trucks capable of both serious work and comfortable daily driving. Built on the K2XX platform, introduced in 2014, this generation focused on increased strength and capability. The Double Cab configuration offered a balance between passenger space and bed length, making it suitable for both work crews and families. The Duramax engine, paired exclusively with the Allison transmission in this configuration, positioned this trim as a premium offering within the Silverado 3500 HD range.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the Duramax L5P 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine. This engine is a testament to modern diesel technology, featuring a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a robust rotating assembly. The L5P utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air density for enhanced power output. The engine produces 445 horsepower at 2800 rpm and a massive 910 lb-ft of torque at 1600 rpm. The Allison 1000 Series six-speed automatic transmission is specifically designed to handle the immense torque output of the Duramax engine. This transmission features electronically controlled shifts and a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency. The transmission’s robust construction and intelligent shift programming contribute to smooth and reliable operation, even under heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 445 hp Duramax and the Allison automatic results in a driving experience that prioritizes effortless towing and hauling. While not designed for outright speed, the Silverado 3500 HD delivers strong acceleration, even when fully loaded. The Allison transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both low-end torque and highway cruising. The 6-speed automatic provides smooth and precise shifts, minimizing gear hunting and maximizing efficiency. Compared to the 6.0L gasoline V8 option, the Duramax offers significantly more torque, making it ideal for demanding tasks. Compared to the lighter-duty Silverado 1500 models, the 3500 HD exhibits a more substantial feel, with a firmer ride quality due to its heavier-duty suspension components. The Dual Rear Wheel configuration enhances stability, particularly when towing large trailers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD Double Cab Long Box with the Duramax engine typically came well-equipped, often falling into the mid-to-upper trim levels (LTZ or High Country). Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system. Higher trims added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and forward collision alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, a spray-in bedliner, and various towing packages. The interior design focused on functionality and durability, with comfortable seating and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The K2XX platform features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for the truck’s substantial weight and towing capacity. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone control arms, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration balances ride comfort with load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhances safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The DRW configuration contributes to improved braking performance and stability, especially when towing.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2017-2019 Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax engine received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. The engine was praised for its power and efficiency, while the Allison transmission was lauded for its smooth operation and durability. Critics noted the truck’s comfortable ride quality and spacious interior. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty, the Silverado 3500 HD offered a competitive combination of capability, comfort, and value. Fuel economy, while respectable for a heavy-duty truck, was a common point of comparison, with the Duramax generally offering better mileage than gasoline-powered alternatives. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter.
Legacy
The Duramax L5P engine and Allison transmission pairing has proven to be a highly reliable and durable powertrain. These trucks continue to hold their value in the used car market, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The 2017-2019 Silverado 3500 HD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and dependable heavy-duty truck. The K2XX platform’s robust construction and the Duramax engine’s longevity ensure that these trucks will continue to provide years of service. The combination of power, towing capacity, and relative refinement has cemented this variant’s place as a workhorse in the American trucking landscape.
