Competition brings out the best in us all, trucks included. Although GM idled through the 90s while Ford and Dodge pickups edged towards the pole position, Chevy moved to regain territory in the work truck market when it unleashed its heavy duty line of full size pickups. The Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD pickups maintain the momentum gained from that midyear launch. With teamster class cargo hauling and towing capacities, decadent horsepower and torque ratings, plus handling and passenger comforts that belie their true work ethic, the HD models appeal to retail and fleet buyers alike. HD or Heavy Duty, models are built rugged from the ground up. For example, manufacturing efficiencies are gained by using the same higher weight capacity frames designed for the dually 1 tones on the 2500 Series trucks. Further, these 3 piece frames are stronger and more precisely formed than previous versions to permit higher gross vehicle weights and finer tuned suspensions for improved ride and handling qualities.
When sporting the Vortec 6000 engine and 5 speed manual transmission, the 2500 HD and 3500 HD deliver a smashing 9200 lb and 11,400 lb. GVWR, respectively. Three engines are available; an improved Vortec 6000 V-8 (that replaces the 5700 as standard), and two fresh power plants, the Vortec 8100 V-8 and the Duramax 6600 diesel. The latter was developed as a joint venture between GM and Isuzu Motors and with its 300 bhp and 520 lb.ft of low end torque, the Duramax 6600 is a genuine boulder bouncer.
