The 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD heavy-duty pickup truck is built with a powerful, fuel-efficient, and comfortable design. The truck comes with two powerful engine options offering a maximum towing capacity of 23,100 lbs.
The Silverado 3500 HD is part of the Silverado lineup and is widely known for its powerful performance and towing capabilities.
In this article, we’ll explore the 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity with comprehensive towing charts and essential towing recommendations.
Table of Contents
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
The 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD is one of the most powerful performers when it comes to towing jobs.
The truck is available in three trim levels including WT (Work Truck), LT, and LTZ. There are various technologies, and features to enhance safety, and towing capability.
Key Features of the 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
- Two powerful engine options
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Maximum Towing of up to 23,100 lbs
- 4-Wheel Drive configurations
- Three different cab configurations
- Towing Technologies
- Safety Features
- Spacious and Comfortable Interior
The 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD is available with two powerful engines: the Vortec 6.0L V8 Gas Engine (Standard) with Hydra-Matic 6L90 6-speed automatic override transmission, and the Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 engine (Available) with Allison 1000 6-speed automatic override transmission.
The 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500HD offers impressive performance and power. It comes equipped with a 6.0L Vortec V8 engine as standard, delivering 360 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This engine ensures a smooth and comfortable driving experience, capable of handling most tasks with ease.
For those seeking even greater power, the Silverado 3500HD offers an optional upgrade to the 6.6L Duramax V8 Turbo Diesel engine. This powerhouse generates an impressive 445 horsepower and a whopping 765 lb-ft of torque, establishing itself as one of the strongest engines in its class. Not only does the Duramax engine provide exceptional power, but it also boasts excellent fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for heavy towing or hauling needs.
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity Based on engine types
| ENGINE TYPE | MAX. CONVENTIONAL TOWING | MAX. 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TOWING |
| Vortec 6.0L V8 Gas | 14,100 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18,000 lbs | 23,100 lbs |
Now, let’s explore the conventional, and 5th-wheel/gooseneck towing charts.
The 2013 Silverado 3500 HD is available in Regular Cab, Extended Cab and Crew Cab. The towing capacity differs according to the cab type, engine configuration, and wheel size.
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (Regular Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 14,100 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,800 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,600 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,700 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (Extended Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,600 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,400 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 8,900 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 16,500 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 18,000 lbs |
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (Crew Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Standard Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,500 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,200 lbs |
| Standard Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,500 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,400 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,000 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,100 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 8,700 lbs |
| Standard Box 2WD | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 16,500 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 18,000 lbs |
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck (Regular Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TOWING |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 14,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 14,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,800 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,500 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,700 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 17,400 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 23,100 lbs |
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck (Extended Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TOWING |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 14,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,700 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,700 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,400 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,500 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 8,900 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 17,300 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 22,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 16,900 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 22,600 lbs |
2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck (Crew Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TOWING |
| Standard Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 14,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,900 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,500 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,700 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,600 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 20,500 lbs | 13,200 lbs |
| Standard Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,500 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,400 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,000 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 9,100 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,000 lbs | 8,700 lbs |
| Standard Box 2WD | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 17,200 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 17,300 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 22,800 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 24,500 lbs | 16,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 3.73 | 30,500 lbs | 22,500 lbs |
Important Points to be noted from the towing charts.
- Maximum trailer weight ratings are calculated assuming a base vehicle, except for any option(s) necessary to achieve the rating, plus driver.
- The weight of other optional equipment, passengers, and cargo will reduce the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. See your Chevy dealer for additional details.
- Trailer tongue weight should be 10% to 15% of the total loaded trailer weight.
- Trailer kingpin weight should be 15% to 25% of the total loaded trailer weight.
- The addition of trailer tongue weight/trailer kingpin weight cannot cause vehicle weights to exceed Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
- These ratings can be found on the certification label located on the driver’s door or doorframe.
Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing and Safety Features
The Chevy Silverado HD is equipped with various advanced towing accessories that are essential for pulling a heavy load with ease.
- StabiliTrak with Trailer Sway Control
- Diesel Exhaust Brake System
- Auto Grade Braking
- Automatic Locking Rear Differential
- Rear Vision Camera
- Standard Tow/Haul Mode
- Hill Start Assist
- Standard ABS Feature on all models
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Conclusion on 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity
At its core, the 2013 Silverado 3500 HD is equipped with the Vortec 6.0L V8 engine as its standard gasoline option. However, for those seeking more power, there is an appealing alternative available: the 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 engine.
When the 6.6L Duramax engine is combined with the appropriate max trailer packages, the 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD showcases its impressive capabilities, boasting a remarkable maximum towing capacity of 23,100 lbs (5th-Wheel/Gooseneck).
But it doesn’t stop there. With the same engine, the Silverado 3500 HD can confidently tow up to 18,000 lbs conventionally.
To further enhance its towing and hauling capabilities, the Silverado 3500 HD comes from the factory with essential features like a trailer brake controller and a heavy-duty cooling system. These features ensure optimal performance even in demanding towing conditions.
Let’s conclude with some important towing tips.
- Ensure Proper Weight Distribution: Distribute your load evenly and stay within your truck’s towing capacity to prevent damage to the transmission, brakes, and suspension.
- Use Appropriate Equipment: Utilize the correct hitch, trailer ball, and safety chains to establish a secure connection. Before towing, double-check that all equipment is functioning properly.
- Verify Trailer Brake Functionality: Before hitting the road, confirm that your trailer’s electric brakes are in good working order.
- Utilize Extended Side-View Mirrors: Improve visibility around your trailer by using extended side-view mirrors.
- Reduce Speed and Maintain Safety: Drive at a safe speed while towing, considering that your vehicle’s handling and stopping distance will be affected. Give yourself extra time to respond to traffic situations.
- Stay Mindful of Height and Length Restrictions: Be aware of height and length limitations on roads, bridges, and parking garages.
- Maintain Your Vehicle: Regularly maintain your Silverado 3500 HD, especially when towing heavy loads. Prior to each trip, check the brakes, tires, and fluids.
- Plan Your Route: Plan your route in advance and take note of potential hazards such as steep hills, winding roads, and narrow bridges. Avoid overloading your trailer and stay within the maximum towing capacity of your Silverado 3500 HD.
Stellan Carter is an accomplished writer, entrepreneur, and avid Ford Raptor owner. As a co-founder and content contributor for this renowned blog website, Stellan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the automotive industry. When he's not behind the wheel of his beloved Ford Raptor, Stellan can be found exploring new terrains, capturing the essence of his automotive adventures through his camera lens.