The 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its exceptional towing, and hauling capability. Available with two powerful engines, this sturdy truck can tow up to 23,300 lbs.
Silverado 3500 HD comes with various configurations and models to meet your demands. The strong frame and flexible suspension system handle heavy loads with ease.
Likewise, the truck is also equipped with a number of towing features to boost hauling performance.
In this article, we will explore the 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity with full towing charts, and important towing guidelines.
Table of Contents
2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
The 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD is one of the most powerful performers when it comes to towing jobs.
For those seeking options, the 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD offers four models including WT (Work Truck), LT, LTZ, and High Country.
Key Features of the 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
- Powerful Engines
- Heavy-Duty Frame and Suspension
- Towing and Hauling Technologies
- Advanced Interior
The Vortec 6.0L V8 is a standard gas engine for the 2018 Silverado 3500 HD that delivers a peak power of 360 hp at 5,400 rpm, and a peak torque of 380 lb.-ft at 4,200 rpm. This gas engine is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Likewise, the legendary Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel engine offers a maximum power of 445 hp at 2,800 rpm, and a maximum torque of 910 lb.-ft at 1,600 rpm. This powerful diesel engine works with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission.
2018 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 | 14,300 lbs | 14,600 lbs |
| Duramax 6.6L V8 | 20,000 lbs | 23,300 lbs |
Now, let’s explore the conventional, and 5th-wheel/gooseneck towing charts.
The 2018 Silverado 3500 HD is available in Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. The towing capacity differs according to the cab type, engine configuration, and wheel size.
Regarding configurations, the Silverado 3500 HD is available in Regular Cab, 4-Door Double Cab, and Crew Cab.
2018 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 | 21,100 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 10,100 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,500 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 25,300 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (4-Door Double Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,200 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,900 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,600 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,700 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,400 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,100 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
2018 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 | 21,100 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,100 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,700 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,700 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,400 lbs |
| Standard Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,700 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,600 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,400 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 8,900 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
2018 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 | 21,100 lbs | 14,600 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,900 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 10,100 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,400 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 25,300 lbs | 17,600 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 23,300 lbs |
2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (4-Door Double Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TOWING |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,200 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,800 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,900 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,500 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,700 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,300 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,400 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 23,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 22,900 lbs |
2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (Crew Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TOWING |
| Standard Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,200 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 14,000 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,700 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,900 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,700 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 4.10 | 21,100 lbs | 13,300 lbs |
| Standard Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,700 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,500 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Standard Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,400 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 9,200 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Vortec 6.0L V8 | 3.73 | 16,600 lbs | 8,800 lbs |
| Long Box 2WD Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 23,100 lbs |
| Long Box 4×4 Dually | Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel | 3.73 | 31,300 lbs | 22,700 lbs |
Important Points to be noted from the towing charts.
- Prior to purchasing a vehicle or using it for towing purposes, it is essential to thoroughly examine the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo, and any additional options or accessories can potentially decrease the amount of weight you are able to tow.
- When towing a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer, the kingpin weight should be around 15% of the total weight of the trailer when it is loaded. It is crucial to ensure that the addition of the trailer kingpin weight does not cause the vehicle to exceed its Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
- The Silverado HD can be outfitted with a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer hitch. However, since fifth-wheel trailer kingpin loads are higher than conventional trailer tongue loads, it is important to pay close attention to the truck’s payload capacity and Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating.
- If available, the Trailering Equipment Package (Z82) includes a trailer hitch platform and a 7-pin sealed connector located at the rear bumper. Additionally, a 7-wire camper/fifth-wheel wiring harness (UY2) can be obtained with the Heavy-Duty Trailering Equipment Package (Z82).
Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Features
The Chevy Silverado HD is equipped with various advanced towing accessories that are essential for pulling a heavy load with ease.
- Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Package
- Digital Steering Assist
- Rear Vision Camera
- Diesel Exhaust Brake System
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Fifth-Wheel Trailering Hitch from Chevrolet Accessories
- Trailering Camera System from Chevrolet Accessories
- Hill Start Assist
- StabiliTrak with Trailer Sway Control
- Convenient Cargo Bed Lamps
- EZ Lift & Lower Tailgate
Safety Features on the Silverado 3500 HD
- Safety Alert Seat for Driver
- Lane Departure Warning
- Forward Collision Alert
- Front and Rear Park Assist
- Rear Vision Camera
- ABS Brakes
- Teen Driver
- Available Onstar Automatic Crash Response
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Conclusion on 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity
As we come to the end of this article, we explored the powerful towing capacity of the 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD. This amazing pickup truck is available in a variety of configurations to meet the toughest towing demands.
Here are some key takeaways from the article.
- Vortec 6.0L V8 is the standard gas engine for the 2018 Silverado 3500 HD. A powerful 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 gas is available to further boost performance.
- The maximum towing capacity of the 2018 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD is 23,300 lbs (5th-Wheel/Gooseneck) which is achievable with the 6.6L Duramax engine, and max trailer packages. Likewise, the maximum conventional towing is 20,000 lbs with the same engine.
- The Silverado 3500 HD comes standard with a number of features that help to improve towing and hauling performance, such as a trailer brake controller and a heavy-duty cooling system.
Let’s conclude with some important towing tips.
Proper Weight Distribution: Keep your load evenly distributed and within the towing capacity of your truck to avoid damage to the transmission, brakes, and suspension.
Use Proper Equipment: Use the correct hitch, trailer ball, and safety chains to create a secure connection. Check that all equipment is functioning correctly before towing.
Check Trailer Brakes: Verify that your trailer’s electric brakes are working correctly before setting out on the road.
Use Extended Side-View Mirrors: Use extended side-view mirrors to improve visibility around the trailer.
Slow Down and Maintain Safe Speeds: Drive at a safe speed while towing, taking into account that your vehicle’s handling and stopping distance will be affected. Allow yourself extra time to respond to traffic situations.
Be Aware of Height and Length Restrictions: Be mindful of height and length restrictions on roads, bridges, and parking garages.
Maintain Your Vehicle: Regular maintenance will ensure your Silverado 3500 HD is in top condition, particularly when towing heavy loads. Check brakes, tires, and fluids before each trip.
Plan Your Route: Plan your route ahead of time and be aware 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.