Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX, facelift 2024) Double Cab Long Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 Duramax TD V8 (470 Hp) DRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 132.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 371.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 470 Hp @ 2800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1322 Nm @ 1600 rpm (975.06 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 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 | 28.5 l (30.12 US qt | 25.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3559 kg (7846.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 6350 kg (13999.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 2791 kg (6153.1 lbs.) |
| 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 | 6514 mm (256.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2457 mm (96.73 in.) |
| Height | 2037 mm (80.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 4127 mm (162.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1731 mm (68.15 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1905 mm (75 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 264 mm (10.39 in.) |
| 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 | 10 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 |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 235/80 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD IV Double Cab Long Bed with the 6.6L Duramax diesel and Allison automatic transmission is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for demanding tasks. It represents a significant update to the Silverado HD line, building on the T1XX platform. This configuration slots into the upper echelon of the Silverado 3500 HD range, offering a balance of power, capability, and interior space. The Double Cab provides comfortable seating for five passengers, while the Long Bed offers ample cargo capacity. The DRW (Dual Rear Wheel) setup is specifically geared towards maximizing towing and payload capabilities, making it a popular choice for commercial users, ranchers, and those who frequently haul heavy loads.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Silverado 3500 HD lies the 6.6-liter L5P Duramax turbocharged diesel engine. This engine is a pushrod (OHV) V8, known for its robust construction and impressive torque output. The L5P utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for efficient combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooler work in tandem to optimize power and reduce emissions. The engine produces 470 horsepower at 2800 rpm and a massive 1322 Nm (975.06 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 rpm. This torque figure is crucial for heavy towing and hauling. The engine is paired with a heavy-duty 10-speed Allison automatic transmission, specifically tuned to handle the engine’s substantial output. This transmission provides smooth and precise shifting, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The Allison transmission features electronically controlled shifts and tow/haul mode for optimized performance when towing.
Driving Characteristics
The Silverado 3500 HD DRW with the Duramax and Allison transmission delivers a driving experience focused on capability rather than outright speed. The 10-speed Allison transmission is well-geared, providing ample torque in each gear for effortless acceleration, even when heavily loaded. The DRW configuration significantly enhances stability, particularly when towing. While the ride quality can be firm, especially when unladen, the suspension is designed to absorb the impacts of heavy loads. The steering feels precise, though it requires more effort than lighter-duty trucks. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD variants, the Duramax diesel offers significantly more torque, making it far superior for towing and hauling. The diesel also provides better fuel economy when towing heavy loads, although the initial purchase price is higher.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD IV Double Cab Long Bed 6.6 Duramax DRW typically comes well-equipped, even in its base trim. Standard features often include air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Optional extras include a power sunroof, a bed liner, and various towing packages. The interior design is functional and durable, with a focus on providing a comfortable and productive work environment.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD features a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads. The front suspension utilizes an independent torsion bar and double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring configuration. The DRW setup adds a second wheel on each side of the rear axle, increasing load capacity and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering system utilizes a cone worm and recirculation balls mechanism, offering precise control and durability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Silverado 3500 HD with the Duramax diesel has consistently received positive reviews for its towing and hauling capabilities. Critics praise the engine’s power and torque, as well as the smooth shifting of the Allison transmission. Compared to the gasoline-powered Silverado 3500 HD, the Duramax diesel offers superior towing capacity and fuel economy when hauling heavy loads. However, the diesel engine carries a higher price tag and may require more expensive maintenance. Compared to competitors like the Ford Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty, the Silverado 3500 HD is often seen as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of capability, comfort, and technology.
Legacy
The L5P Duramax engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines generally require more maintenance than gasoline engines, the L5P has a good track record for longevity. On the used car market, Silverado 3500 HD models equipped with the Duramax diesel and Allison transmission hold their value well, due to their reputation for capability and reliability. These trucks remain popular choices for those who need a heavy-duty workhorse, and well-maintained examples can provide many years of service.
