How many tons is a Chevy 3500 dually?
The Silverado 3500HD with dual rear wheels has a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 14,000 pounds — about 7 tons. That rating marks the upper limit for the vehicle’s weight when fully loaded, including passengers and equipment. In practical terms, the exact weight you can carry or tow depends on the specific trim, cab/bed configuration, engine, and options.
What the numbers mean
In trucking and automotive terms, “tons” can refer to several different measurements. The most relevant for everyday use is GVWR, which sets the legal limit for the total weight of the vehicle when loaded. Other figures include curb weight (the vehicle’s weight without payload), payload (the remaining capacity for cargo and passengers), and GCWR (gross combined weight rating, the limit for vehicle plus trailer).
Key weight figures for the Silverado 3500HD dually
Below are typical values you’ll see on common 3500HD dual-rear-wheel configurations. Exact numbers vary by year, engine, cab style, bed length, drivetrain, and optional equipment.
Before reviewing these figures, note that they are general ranges intended for comparison across configurations.
- GVWR: up to 14,000 pounds (about 7 tons). This is the maximum allowable weight for the vehicle when loaded, including occupants and equipment.
- Curb weight: roughly 6,800 to 8,000 pounds depending on cab, bed, engine, and options.
- Payload capacity: about 3,500 to 7,000 pounds, depending on the exact configuration and how weight is allocated between passengers and cargo.
- GCWR: typically in the range of 28,000 to 36,000 pounds (about 14 to 18 tons), depending on engine, drivetrain, and whether a trailer is included in the rating.
These numbers illustrate how the truck’s load-carrying and towing capabilities shift with configuration. Always verify the precise specs for your specific build using the window sticker or GM’s official documentation.
How to verify the exact weight for your truck
Because the Silverado 3500HD comes in many configurations, the exact numbers depend on your specific model year and trim. Use these steps to confirm:
- Check the GVWR, curb weight, and payload on the vehicle’s window sticker (Monroney label).
- Consult the owner’s manual or the Chevrolet Build Sheet (SPID label) tied to your VIN.
- Use GM’s VIN lookup or the Chevrolet Owner Center to pull the exact specifications for your exact truck.
- For towing, verify the GCWR and hitch/tow package ratings to stay within the combined limits.
Having the precise figures helps ensure safe loading and compliance with weight limits when hauling heavy loads or towing trailers.
Bottom line
For the Chevy Silverado 3500HD dually, the top GVWR is 14,000 pounds, equating to about 7 tons. Real-world payload and towing limits depend heavily on configuration, so always check the exact figures for your specific year, trim, and build.
Summary
The 3500HD dually is designed for heavy-duty work, with a maximum GVWR of 14,000 pounds (approximately 7 tons). Payload, curb weight, and towing capacity vary by configuration, engine, and options. To determine your truck’s exact capabilities, consult the window sticker, Build Sheet, and GM’s official resources for your VIN.
