How much gas does a Chevy 3500 hold?
Context: This article explains the fuel tank capacities for Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD heavy-duty trucks and how the numbers vary by engine, cab/bed configuration, and model year. Fans and owners often ask about tank size to estimate range and planning for long trips.
The typical fuel tank capacity for a Chevy 3500 depends on the engine and configuration. In general, gasoline versions use about 31 gallons, while diesel Duramax variants use about 36 gallons. Exact capacity can differ by cab style, bed length, and any optional tanks, so always verify the specification for your specific truck.
Typical tank sizes by engine configuration
Note: The numbers below reflect common factory capacities observed in recent Silverado 3500HD models across popular configurations. Your exact figure may vary by year, trim, and optional equipment.
- Gasoline engine (for example, a 6.0L V8): approximately 31 gallons (about 117 liters).
- Duramax diesel engine (for example, 6.6L): approximately 36 gallons (about 136 liters).
While these figures cover the majority of current configurations, some specific cab-and-bed combinations or dealer-installed options may alter capacity slightly. Always confirm with official documentation for your exact build.
What affects tank size and how to verify
Beyond engine type, the Silverado 3500HD’s fuel capacity can be influenced by cab style (Regular, Double, Crew), bed length, and any auxiliary or aftermarket tanks installed. These factors can cause small variations from the standard figures above.
To determine the precise capacity for your vehicle, use these sources:
- Your vehicle’s owner’s manual or window sticker
- Chevrolet’s official VIN-specific documentation or dealer build sheet
- The exact model year and configuration when cross-referencing manufacturer specs
For practical planning, most gasoline Silverado 3500HD models use about 31 gallons, while Duramax diesel models use about 36 gallons. Verify your specific truck to plan fuel stops accurately.
Planning for long trips
When planning long drives, estimate range by multiplying the tank capacity by your expected miles-per-gallon (mpg). Real-world mpg varies with payload, terrain, and driving style, so use these figures as conservative guides rather than exact predictions.
Summary
In short, the Chevy Silverado 3500HD’s fuel tank capacity typically sits around 31 gallons for gasoline variants and about 36 gallons for Duramax diesel variants. Exact capacity depends on configuration, year, and options. Always check the vehicle’s official specs for your exact build to plan trips and fuel stops accurately.
