Identified by its new power dome hood, a styling throwback, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD arrived at the Chicago Auto Show riding on an all-new ladder frame, suspension, and axles – about the only carry-over part is the front stabilizer bar link that connects the stabilizer bar to the lower control arm. Maximum towing capacity is up to 20,000 pounds with the DRW Duramax diesel and fifth wheel combo (yes, that trumps the Ford F-Series Super Duty F-350 apples to apples). The gasoline-fed SRW 6.0-liter V-8 engine will pull 14,500 pounds with a fifth wheel.
In addition to the beefy hood, the front bumper has been revised with a larger emblem and a more gaping intake – designed to improve transmission cooling. Other improvements include 17-inch wheels (standard) or optional new 18- or 20-inch alloys. The dual rear-wheel tires are still 17-inch, but they now accommodate taller aspect ratio tires. The improvements for 2011 are all good news for heavy duty truck buyers with the exception of the wheel bolt pattern – the eight-lug hub has a slightly different measurement meaning 2007-10 wheels simply won't fit.
