What is the towing capacity of the Chevy 3500 6.6 gas engine?
The conventional towing capacity for the Silverado 3500HD with the 6.6-liter gas V8 generally sits around 20,000 pounds, while gooseneck or fifth-wheel capabilities can push into the low 30,000s pounds depending on the configured equipment. Exact figures depend on the truck’s cab/bed configuration, axle ratio, towing package, and whether the truck is a single-rear-wheel or dual-rear-wheel model.
This article explains how Chevrolet defines towing capacity for the Silverado 3500HD equipped with the 6.6L gas engine, the factors that affect those numbers, and how to verify the exact rating for your specific build.
Engine and configuration that affect towing
The 6.6L V8 gas engine in the Silverado 3500HD produces about 401 horsepower and approximately 464 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. These powertrain figures influence how much the truck is capable of towing, but the final rating also depends on other configuration choices such as axle ratio, tow package, cab/bed combination, and whether the truck uses single or dual rear wheels.
Towing capacity ranges
Use these general guidelines to understand how ratings can vary by setup. Always confirm the exact figure for your specific vehicle using the owner’s manual, door jamb placard, or official Chevrolet specification sheets.
- Conventional towing (standard hitch) with the 6.6L gas engine: up to about 20,000 pounds, depending on configuration and towing package.
- Gooseneck/fifth-wheel towing (maximum capability in appropriate configurations): up to roughly 30,000–34,000 pounds, depending on axle setup and hitch type.
These figures reflect typical published limits for model years around the 2020–2024 range and can vary by year, trim, and available towing packages. Always verify the exact rating for your vehicle before towing.
How to verify the exact rating for your truck
To ensure you’re towing within safe limits, check the official ratings tied to your specific build and equipment. Here are reliable steps to confirm your vehicle’s exact numbers.
- Inspect the door jamb sticker on the driver's side to read the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the maximum towing rating for your cab/bed configuration.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the Chevrolet/GM official brochure for the model year and trim you own, which lists the towing specifications and any required equipment (Tow/Haul mode, Max Trailering Package).
- Use Chevrolet’s official Build & Price or Customer Configuration pages to find the exact numbers tied to your VIN, including whether your truck is SRW or DRW and the axle ratio.
- Discuss with a Chevrolet dealer or service advisor to confirm any year-specific changes or package requirements for maximize towing capacity.
- Always consider payload, hitch type, and hitch weight (tongue weight) in your calculations to avoid exceeding combined limits.
In practice, the most accurate way to determine your specific towing capability is to reference the exact VIN and configuration, then cross-check the door sticker, the owner’s manual, and Chevrolet’s official documentation.
Summary
The Chevy Silverado 3500HD with the 6.6L gas engine can tow up to roughly 20,000 pounds conventionally and up to about 30,000–34,000 pounds with gooseneck/fifth-wheel configurations, depending on factors like cab/bed choice, axle ratio, and towing package. Exact figures vary by model year and build, so always verify your truck’s rating on the door placard, in the manual, or via Chevrolet’s official specification resources before towing.
Summary: For accurate guidance, identify your truck’s precise configuration and consult the official Chevrolet specifications for that exact build, then plan your towing within those published limits to ensure safe and reliable operation.
How many MPG does a 6.6 gas get?
A 6.6L gas engine typically gets around 13-18 MPG on the highway and 10-14 MPG in the city, though this can vary significantly based on driving conditions, vehicle weight, and other factors. Fuel economy can drop to 10 MPG or lower when towing heavy loads.
Factors affecting MPG
- Driving habits: Aggressive acceleration and higher speeds will lower fuel economy.
- Towing: Hauling heavy loads significantly reduces MPG, with reports as low as 8-10 MPG.
- Vehicle weight: Heavier trucks, like those used for towing, get worse mileage.
- Road conditions: Driving on flat, open highways is more efficient than city driving or hilly terrain.
Real-world averages
- Highway: Reports range from 13-18 MPG, with some drivers getting over 15 MPG on the highway, especially at consistent speeds.
- City: Around 10-14 MPG is a common average for city driving.
- Towing: Expect fuel economy to be much lower, sometimes around 10 MPG or less, depending on the weight of the trailer.
Other considerations
- Truck and configuration: The specific model and its configuration (like axle ratio and 2WD vs. 4WD) will impact the exact MPG.
- Transmission: The 10-speed transmission in newer models is designed to help improve fuel economy.
Is a diesel or gas engine better in a 3500?
Diesel engines, like the ones found in RAM 2500 and 3500 models, are designed for maximum torque, making them ideal for heavy towing. If you're frequently hauling large trailers or equipment, the diesel engine's low-end power and fuel efficiency shine bright.
What year should I have my Chevy Silverado 3500 to avoid?
The 2012 Silverado 3500HD stands out as the worst model year according to CarComplaints.com, with numerous issues reported by owners. A major concern is the dashboard cracking, even in low-mileage vehicles. Some owners experienced this problem with as little as 26,000 miles on the odometer.
How much can a Chevy 6.6 gas 3500 tow?
36,000 pounds
The Chevy Silverado 3500 towing capacity can reach up to 36,000 pounds. Take a look at what the Chevy Silverado 3500 towing capacity can do for you and your business, and how to get the most from your Geaux Chevy commercial vehicle.
