Used 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab

Those who haul big loads and tow big trailers need a big truck, and the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD deliver the size and muscle to get big jobs done. As with their GM corporate cousins, the GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, and the equivalent heavy-duty competitors from Ford and Ram, the Silverado HD trucks are available with a really strong gasoline V8 or a monstrously-strong turbodiesel V8. There are the usual cab configurations and cargo-bed lengths, and trim levels from basic to leather. The Silverado HD delivers enormous towing capacity – although not the best in class – and offers a bi-fuel system that allows running on gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG) – meaning a potential cost saving, depending upon fuel prices.

Just because these are heavy-duty trucks does not mean living with them is a harsh experience. The 2014 Silverado HD trucks all have a firm and well-controlled suspension, nice steering with good feedback, and a reasonably smooth and comfortable ride. We can’t help but have a fondness for the 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8 with its 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque. With a 10,000-pound trailer hitched up, the 2500 HD seemed barely to recognize it was there. Towing capacities are dependent upon a variety of factors, but suffice it to say, if this won’t handle it, you need something a lot bigger – probably something with a big, red "S" on its chest. Expectedly, the diesel is louder than the gasoline engine, but not obtrusively so, and the passenger compartment benefits from thorough efforts in sound deadening.

The 2014 Chevy Silverado HD’s interior varies widely depending on what trim and cab configuration you choose. A base WT model with regular cab seats three on a vinyl bench and has few frills, not even power windows. It’s made to be exactly what its initials stand for: Work Truck. Extended-cab models, meanwhile, expand passenger count to six with a rear bench. Crew cabs are also configured to seat six or, with individual front seats, five. Crew bosses will appreciate the premium, leather-lined accommodations of LTZ models. When properly equipped, the Silverado HD serves as a rolling office, thanks to multiple power outlets and the option of it becoming a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2014 Silverado HD comes in two flavors: 2500 and 3500, representing nominally 3/4-ton and 1-ton models. They are somewhat boxy, with a large chrome grille and a raised power-dome hood. The even-heavier-duty 3500 models can be had with dual rear wheels – if you plan to park your Silverado HD in the garage, make sure it can fit. Even with a regular cab, at 225 inches the Silverado HD is more than two feet longer than the Chevy Impala full-size sedan. Crew-cab versions with a long box, meanwhile, measure 259.1 inches, or over 21 feet in length.

DURAMAX TURBODIESEL ENGINE
Even though it’s not the most-powerful of all the HD diesels, it’s still as strong as a bad smell at low tide and much smoother than you’d expect of a diesel. As a bonus, the Silverado is commendably quiet, so you don’t feel you’re in an 18-wheeler.

BI-FUEL SYSTEM
Available on 2500 HD extended-cab models as an $11,000 option, this system enables the Silverado to run on traditional gasoline or compressed natural gas. The CNG tank takes up some bed space near the front, but can potentially save you money by using the alternative fuel.

In base Work Truck form, Chevy Silverado HD models won’t spoil you. These really are work trucks, and part of that work is cranking your own windows unless you pay for some options. However, the base models are equipped with a powerful V8, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, stability control, air conditioning, cruise control, an AM/FM stereo, and a heavy-duty handling/trailering suspension package. LT trims add power windows and door locks, a CD player, premium cloth seating, and more. Top-line LTZ models come with steering-wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth, Bose premium sound, leather seats and a heavy-duty locking rear differential. All 3500 HD models get the locking differential and heavy-duty trailering equipment.

Every 2014 Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD can be had with the more powerful Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel engine, as well as 4-wheel drive in place of the standard rear-wheel drive. Other options vary by trim, and range from power windows and door locks in base models to a rearview camera and heated and cooled leather seats in top trims. Creature-comfort options include a touch-screen navigation system and premium audio, while work-related add-ons include an EZ-Lift tailgate, snow-plow prep package and dual 125-amp alternators. 2500 HD models with the 6.0-liter V8 and extended cab can be equipped with a bi-fuel system that enables the engine to run on gasoline or compressed natural gas.

Two engines are available on 2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD models: a 6.0-liter gasoline V8 that’s flex-fuel capable and can also be configured as a factory option to run on compressed natural gas (although doing so reduces the power output), or a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that can run on B20 biodiesel fuel. In addition to offering much more power than the gasoline engine, the diesel includes an exhaust braking feature to help slow the truck on descents. To reduce emissions, the diesel engine uses a urea-based fluid in a 5.3-gallon tank that needs to be refilled every 5,000 miles. Both engines are linked to 6-speed automatic transmissions, with a heavy-duty Allison 1000 available for the diesel. The EPA does not rate the fuel economy on heavy-duty trucks such as the Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD.

6.0-liter V8
360 horsepower @ 5,400 rpm (301 hp @ 5,000 rpm w/CNG)
380 lb-ft of torque @ 4,200 rpm (333 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm w/ CNG)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8
397 horsepower @ 3,000 rpm
765 lb-ft of torque @ 1,600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A