2009 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD

The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD tips the scales as the largest member of the Silverado lineup. Built similarly to the Silverado 1500 and Silverado 2500HD, the 3500HD pulls out all the stops when it comes to power, towing, and payload. It's offered in three basic trims, each with a multitude of variations in size and features: WT, LT, and LTZ. In terms of the engine and chassis, the trims are almost all identical, with a few options offered for the higher-end LT and LTZ. The WT is the work truck, and both the interior and exterior are simple and designed for sheer productivity. The LT and LTZ offer more interior features for comfort and luxury. The cabin comes in three configurations: Regular, Extended, and Crew Cab, with the long box representing the sole bed option.

With pulling power a paramount feature for the Silverado 3500HD, it’s necessary to have a large engine that plays the part. Standard on all trims is the 6.0-liter, 360-hp V8 engine (322 hp with the Big Dooley configuration) with 380 lb-ft of torque. If that won’t provide the pulling power you need, each trim also offers an optional diesel 6.6-liter V8 turbo engine that can crank out 365 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque. The standard transmission for the 3500HD is a six-speed automatic with a tow/haul mode, and each trim has the option of rear- or four-wheel drive.

The Silverado 3500HD rides standard on the Chevrolet Z85 suspension, designed for handling and trailer compatibility, with the LT and the LTZ offering the option of the Z71 off-road package, which adds 36mm shock absorbers, a rear locking differential, and a skid plate package. The trailer weight rating for the Silverado 3500HD is 16,500 lbs, which adds to the payload of 5,309 lbs. The Big Dooley package affixes two extra wheels on the rear axle, providing increased stability.

The interior of the WT is fairly spartan with little in the department of frills, while the LT and LTZ come standard with a Bose sound system and Bluetooth capabilities. Interior options include a power six-way driver’s seat, audio controls on the steering wheel, a rearview camera system, a power rear window, premium cloth reclining front bucket seats, and a touch-screen navigation system. The LTZ offers a DVD entertainment system with the Crew Cab.

Standard safety features on the Silverado 3500HD include dual front airbags, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, and a paid one-year OnStar subscription. Also standard on all trims is electronic stability control.

By Ollie Garrison