The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Regular Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel-drive system and automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty truck lineup from 2015 to 2019. This configuration represented a work-focused variant within the broader K2XX Silverado HD range, designed for customers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity in a no-frills package. It occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering more power and capability than the base 6.0L models, but positioned below the more expensive and technologically advanced Duramax diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD III (K2XX) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.8 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 | 2849 kg, 6280.97 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4853 kg, 10699.03 lbs. |
| Max load | 2004 kg, 4418.06 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%) | 6486 kg, 14299.18 lbs. |
| Length | 5699 mm, 224.37 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm, 80.12 in. |
| Height | 1977 mm, 77.83 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3393 mm, 133.58 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 220 mm, 8.66 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14 m, 45.93 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 | 7.5J 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 is a member of Chevrolet’s well-established small-block V8 family, known for its durability and relatively simple design. The L96 features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, utilizing a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 380 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm, providing ample power for heavy-duty tasks. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission is the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission is known for its robustness and smooth shifting characteristics, offering a balance between performance and efficiency. The 4WD system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6L90 automatic combination in the Silverado 3500 HD delivers a capable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for a heavy-duty truck, but it’s not designed for quick sprints. The automatic transmission is tuned for towing and hauling, prioritizing smooth shifts and maintaining engine power in demanding situations. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the 6.0L V8 offers less torque and lower fuel economy, but it is significantly less expensive to purchase and maintain. The gear ratios in the 6L90 are optimized for pulling loads, with a relatively deep first gear to get the truck moving from a standstill. The 4WD system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it suitable for off-road use and inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box 6.0L 4WD Silverado 3500 HD typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its work-truck orientation. Standard features included air conditioning, a basic audio system, vinyl upholstery, and manual windows and locks. Higher trim levels, such as the LT, added features like power windows and locks, keyless entry, and upgraded interior materials. Optional extras included a trailer brake controller, a navigation system, and various towing packages. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD utilizes a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension features an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbone components, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration provides a comfortable ride, even when the truck is heavily loaded. 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. The rear axle is a solid axle, contributing to the truck’s towing capacity and durability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0L V8-powered Silverado 3500 HD was generally well-received by critics and customers alike. It was praised for its reliability, affordability, and ample towing capacity. However, it was often criticized for its lower fuel economy compared to the Duramax diesel engine. Compared to the 6.6L Duramax diesel, the 6.0L V8 offered a lower initial cost but significantly less torque and fuel efficiency. The 6.0L was a popular choice for customers who didn’t require the ultimate towing capacity of the diesel engine and 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 as fuel-efficient as modern engines, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a robust and affordable work truck. In the used car market, these Silverado 3500 HD models are often sought after for their towing capacity and relatively low maintenance costs. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 transmission is also known for its longevity, making these trucks a good value for buyers looking for a dependable heavy-duty pickup.
