The All New 2011 Chevy Silverado Heavy Duty

The all-new 2011 chevy silverado Heavy Duty models might not look all that new and there’s a good reason for it. With tight budgets at GM as of late, the Silverado HD team was given limited funds to build the truck and so they chose to put the money where those who really need a heavy duty truck will appreciate it most. Aesthetically, the only real changes to the 2011 model are a new chrome bumper, a “power-dome” hood and a revised grille. Changes to the rest of the 2011 chevy silverado truck, however, are significant.

For starters, new 2011 chevy silverado HD models sit on new frames and come with an optional all-new 6.6-liter Duramax V8 and Allison 1000 six-speed transmission. The truck’s base tow rating is now 16,000 lbs, while a 3500 crew cab/long box can pull up to 20,000 lbs. For the record, that’s 2,400 lbs more than the RAM 3500 and 1,200 lbs more than the 2010 F-350 – although no 2011 F-350 stats are available. Maximum payload is now 6,335 lbs, well above both the Ford and Dodge, although (again) Ford claims segment-best payload but that was before the new Silverado HD was unveiled. With wheelbases ranging from 133.6 inches to 167.7 inches (depending on how you order your truck), along with wider front and rear tracks, the new Silverado HD delivers a smoother ride and better handling. Chevy hasn’t given any new performance stats on the all-new 6.6-liter Duramax diesel. The block itself is a carry-over from the past model but the majority of moving engine parts is new, as is the entire fuel system. NOx emissions are also down 63% thanks in part to an exhaust after treatment system that is used because it won’t interfere with the engine’s ability to create power. The Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) used in the process does require refilling every 5,000 miles. In addition, the new engine of the 2011 chevy silverado is B20 biodiesel capable.

For the 2011 chevy silverado the brakes are larger, measuring 14-inches at all four corners while the swept area of the brake pads has been increased with 13% more area covered on the front rotors and 17 percent more covered on the rear. Gone are 16-inch wheel fitments, with 17s now the new base wheel, while 20s can be had on the 2500HD. Car safety facts equipment includes StabiliTrak and Trailer Sway Control on all single-rear-wheel models as well as a new Hill Start Assist feature, which holds the truck for 1.5 seconds when leaving a stop on a hill. Chevy also says that under heavy load, 2011 chevy silverado has reduced noise vibration and harshness (NVH) by as much as 30%.