If you’re searching for a powerful Chevy truck that can handle your toughest towing jobs, the 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD could be your best option.
The 2020 Silverado HD models are built with the strongest material delivering a maximum towing of 35,500 lbs. Plus, the truck is also equipped with several towing features and technologies to enhance towing capabilities.
In this article, we are exploring the 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity including engine specifications, configurations, and conventional/5th-Wheel Towing Charts.
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2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
The 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD is one of the most powerful performers when it comes to towing jobs. The transmission and the wheels have been upgraded to handle up to 35,500 lbs of towing capacity which is a 52% increase in max. Towing capability.
For those seeking options, the 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD offers four models including WT, LT, LTZ, and High Country. Additionally, drivers can opt for either 2WD or 4×4 configurations on all models, ensuring that the truck can handle whatever terrain comes its way.
Key Features of the 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
- New, more powerful 6.6L V-8 gas engine with direct injection
- All-new Allison® 10-speed automatic transmission
- Autotrac active two-speed transfer case on 4×4 models
- Advanced Trailering System technologies and a new transparent trailer view
- HD-exclusive sculpted exterior design
- Heavy-duty details designed to make work easier and more intuitive
- BedSteps
- Larger cab enables more spacious interiors
Regarding engines, the 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD comes with a standard 6.6L V-8 Gas engine that delivers a peak power of 401 hp, and a peak torque of 464 lb.-ft. This gas engine is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Likewise, the powerful 3500 HD is also available with the legendary Duramax 6.6L V8 Turbo Diesel engine offering a maximum power of 445 hp, and a maximum torque of 910 lb.-ft. This powerful diesel engine works with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission.
2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity Based on engine types
| ENGINE TYPE | MAX. CONVENTIONAL TOWING | MAX. 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK TOWING |
| 6.6L V8 Gas | 16,800 lbs | 17,200 lbs |
| Duramax 6.6L V8 | 20,000 lbs | 35,500 lbs |
Now, let’s explore the conventional, and 5th-wheel/gooseneck towing charts.
The 2020 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 three different configurations: Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. 2WD SRW, 4×4 SRW, 2WD DRW, and 4×4 DRW are the four long bed models for the 3500 HD.
2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (Regular Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | WHEEL SIZE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 16,800 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 16,300 lbs |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 43,500 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 43,500 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (Double Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | WHEEL SIZE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 16,400 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 16,390 lbs |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 40,000 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 40,000 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – Conventional (Crew Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | WHEEL SIZE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Standard Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17”/18” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Standard Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17”/18” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17”/18” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17”/18” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Standard Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Standard Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Standard Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Standard Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs |
| Long Bed 2WD DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 16,300 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 24,000 lbs | 16,300 lbs |
| Standard Bed2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Standard Bed4x4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 29,700 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Bed 2WD DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 40,000 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 40,000 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck (Regular Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | WHEEL SIZE | AXLE RATIO | GVWR | GCWR | 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 10,750 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 17,200 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 11,100 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,950 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 14,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,800 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 14,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,700 lbs |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 11,500 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,500 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 11,800 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW(5th-Wheel) | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 14,000 lbs | 43,500 lbs | 32,000 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW(Gooseneck) | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 14,000 lbs | 43,500 lbs | 35,500 lbs |
2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck (Double Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | WHEEL SIZE | AXLE RATIO | GVWR | GCWR | 5TH-WHEEL/GOOSENECK |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 11,100 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,700 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 11,400 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 14,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,400 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 DRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 14,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,270 lbs |
| Long Bed 2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 11,850 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,490 lbs |
| Long Bed 4×4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 12,150 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,210 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW(5th-Wheel) | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 14,000 lbs | 40,000 lbs | 31,500 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD DRW(Gooseneck) | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 14,000 lbs | 40,000 lbs | 31,340 lbs |
2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity – 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck (Crew Cab)
| MODEL | ENGINE | WHEEL SIZE | AXLE RATIO | GVWR | GCWR | CONVENTIONAL TOWING |
| Standard Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 11,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,700 lbs |
| Standard Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 11,350 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,530 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 11,150 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,700 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 18”/20” | 3.73 | 11,500 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,410 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 14,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,200 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 SRW | 6.6L V8 Gas | 17” | 3.73 | 14,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 16,180 lbs |
| Standard Bed2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 11,750 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,500 lbs |
| Standard Bed4x4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 12,100 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,300 lbs |
| Long Bed2WD SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 11,900 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,330 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 SRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 18”/20” | 3.42 | 12,250 lbs | 29,700 lbs | 21,040 lbs |
| Long Bed 2WD DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 14,000 lbs | 40,000 lbs | 31,400 lbs |
| Long Bed4x4 DRW | Duramax 6.6L Turbo Diesel V8 | 17” | 3.42 | 14,000 lbs | 40,000 lbs | 31,180 lbs |
Important Points to be noted from the towing charts.
- It is crucial to thoroughly review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual before purchasing a vehicle or using it for towing purposes. Keep in mind that the weight of passengers, cargo, and any added options or accessories may impact the amount that you can tow.
- The Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is a vital consideration when it comes to towing. This rating includes the weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and equipment, and it is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is properly equipped to handle the load.
- Similarly, the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is another crucial factor to consider. This rating includes the weight of the vehicle and the trailer combination, along with the weight of the driver, passengers, fuel, optional equipment, and any cargo in both the vehicle and the trailer.
- If you are aiming for maximum towing capacity, it’s worth noting that the 35,500 lbs limit is only achievable with available 18″ mud-terrain tires (QG3). It is essential to ensure that your vehicle is properly equipped to handle the load before hitting the road with your trailer.
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.
- Trailering Packages
- StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control
- Trailer Sway Control
- Hill Start Assist
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller
- Rear Vision Camera
- Trailering Camera System
- Tow/Haul Mode
- Auto Grade Braking
- Cruise Grade Braking
- Diesel Exhaust Brake
- Automatic Locking Rear Differential
- Digital Variable Steering Assist
- Park Grade Hold Assist
- Extendable Trailering Mirrors
- Max Trailering Package
- Hitch Guidance with Hitch View
- Auto Electric Parking Brake
- Trailer Theft Alert
- In-Vehicle Advanced Trailering System
- Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- myChevrolet Mobile App with Trailering
Camera Technologies for the Silverado 3500 HD
The latest Chevy Silverado HD pickups are equipped with advanced camera technologies to assist you in towing with confidence. It offers 8 available cameras with which 15 unique views can be generated. The towing job becomes easier whether you are hitching, driving, or parking.
The available camera technologies for the Chevy Silverado HD are:
Four available hitch views
- Hitch View
- Surround View
- Rear Top-Down View
- Bed View
Six available driving views
- Transparent Trailer View
- Front Camera View
- Pic-In-Pic Side View
- Rear Camera Mirror
- Rear Trailer View
- Inside Trailer View
Five available parking views
- Rear Camera View
- Rear Side View/Rear Side View (Turn Signal Activated)
- Bowl View
- Front Side View
- Front Top-Down View
Explore More: 2023 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity 2022 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity 2021 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity
Conclusion on 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Towing Capacity
We looked into the 2020 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Pickup truck’s towing ability and discovered that it can tow a maximum weight of 35,500 lbs, but only with the Silverado 3500 HD that has a Duramax 6.6L V8 Diesel engine and the max trailer tow package.
It’s essential to note that the towing capacity includes the weight of the vehicle, cargo, and towing equipment. Although the figures we mentioned are for comparison purposes, actual performance may differ based on driving conditions, vehicle configuration, and customizations.
We strongly advise Chevy Silverado HD customers to review the Owner’s Manual before using the vehicle for towing to ensure they use its capabilities safely and correctly.
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.