The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular Cab Long Bed, equipped with the 6.6-liter V8 engine producing 401 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the heavy-duty pickup truck segment. Produced from 2020 through 2023, this configuration catered to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capabilities in a traditional, no-frills package. It occupied a position within the Silverado 3500 HD lineup as a work-focused variant, slotting below the more luxurious trims like the High Country while offering a more potent powertrain than the available diesel options for those prioritizing gasoline performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 3500 HD |
| Generation | Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular Cab Long Bed |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 V8 (401 Hp) SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 141.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 401 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 629 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 463.93 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L8T |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in) |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm (3.86 in) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.6 l (15.43 US qt | 12.85 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2826 kg (6230.26 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 4876 kg (10749.74 lbs) |
| Max load | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 7802 kg (17200.47 lbs) |
| Length | 5982 mm (235.51 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2076 mm (81.73 in) |
| Height | 2056 mm (80.94 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3595 mm (141.54 in) |
| Front track | 1731 mm (68.15 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1736 mm (68.35 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 285 mm (11.22 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 | 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, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 265/70 R17; 245/75 R17; 275/70 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 Chevrolet L8T 6.6-liter V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, gasoline-powered unit featuring direct injection and a robust cast iron block. The L8T utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency. The engine produces 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 464 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. This power is delivered through a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its durability and suitability for heavy-duty applications. The transmission is electronically controlled, offering smooth shifts and optimized gear selection based on driving conditions and load. The rear-wheel-drive configuration is standard, prioritizing simplicity and maximizing payload capacity.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.6L V8 and six-speed automatic combination delivers a confident, if not particularly refined, driving experience. While not as fuel-efficient as the Duramax diesel options, the gasoline engine provides readily available power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission is tuned for work, prioritizing smooth, consistent shifts over sporty responsiveness. The gear ratios are optimized for towing, providing ample low-end torque. Compared to the diesel variants, this configuration offers quicker acceleration in lighter load situations, but falls behind in maximum towing capacity and fuel economy when heavily burdened. The Regular Cab configuration, combined with the long bed, results in a substantial vehicle that requires careful maneuvering in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) Regular Cab Long Bed with the 6.6L V8 typically came with a relatively basic level of standard equipment, reflecting its work-truck focus. Standard features generally included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, vinyl upholstery, and manual windows and locks. Optional extras included power windows and locks, upgraded audio systems, and various towing packages. The interior was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, prioritizing functionality over luxury. The Regular Cab configuration offered limited passenger space, making it best suited for single drivers or those occasionally carrying a passenger.
Chassis & Braking
The Silverado 3500 HD utilizes a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame designed to withstand heavy loads and demanding conditions. The front suspension features an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a comfortable ride and stable handling. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring design, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power even when towing. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Steering is accomplished via a hydraulic power steering system, offering a direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.6L V8-powered Silverado 3500 HD received generally positive reviews for its robust performance and towing capabilities. Critics noted that while the diesel engines offered superior fuel economy and towing capacity, the gasoline V8 provided a more affordable entry point into the heavy-duty truck segment. Compared to the Duramax diesel, the gasoline engine was considered less refined and noisier, but offered a simpler and potentially less expensive maintenance profile. Fuel economy was a common criticism, with the gasoline engine returning significantly lower MPG figures than the diesel alternatives. However, the lower initial cost and simpler maintenance requirements appealed to buyers prioritizing value and ease of ownership.
Legacy
The L8T 6.6L V8 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain in the Silverado 3500 HD. While not as sought-after as the Duramax diesel, the gasoline V8 remains a viable option for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. On the used car market, these models typically command lower prices than their diesel counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The simplicity of the gasoline engine and its associated systems contributes to lower long-term maintenance costs, further enhancing its appeal in the used market. The Silverado 3500 HD IV (T1XX) with the 6.6L V8 continues to be a popular choice for those needing a workhorse truck capable of handling demanding tasks.
