2015 Chevy Silverado 3500
The Chevrolet Silverado 3500 was redesigned for the 2015 model year, offering a new look but the same-old Chevy capability. New exterior styling, an updated interior, an all-new double cab were introduced as well as a new High Country trim added to the lineup. Engine selections do carry over from the previous generation, meaning the 2015 Chevy Silverado 3500 comes standard with a 6.0L V8 capable of 360 horsepower and 380lbs-ft torque. The optional turbocharged Duramax 6.6L diesel V8 combined with the legendary Allison transmission delivers an impressive 397 horsepower and 765lbs-ft torque. Properly equipped, this Chevy 3500 HD has a maximum towing capacity of 23,200lbs and can haul up to 7,374lbs.
Let That V8 Roar
A Chevy Silverado 3500 HD is just that - a heavy-duty truck. It’s not going to fit through a drive-thru so why should it sound like it's a daily driver? Most stock exhaust systems will actually restrict airflow in order to keep sound to a low, inspection-friendly level. When it comes to exhaust systems, what comes out is just as important as what goes in, so if you’re looking to boost your Silverado’s voice -- and see some power and performance gains -- then consider swapping out your factory exhaust manifold for a set of aftermarket exhaust headers. Headers can be one of the easiest bolt-on upgrades, and unlike an OEM manifold, they are designed to maximise airflow and eliminate back-pressure. Depending on your use case, there are two styles to consider:
- Shorty Headers: The port pipes on shorty headers merge into a single exhaust pipe within a much shorter distance. Shorties thus can be more beneficial for towing and hauling purposes as they perform best in the idle to mid-RPM range. Their compact size also means that they are a more straightforward install, and they are designed to work in tandem with the factory midpipe.
- Long-Tube Headers: Also commonly referred to full length headers, long-tubes are longer (30 inches or longer) and join into a single exhaust port further out. Longer port pipes thus result in lower exhaust back pressure, better pulse scavenging and boosting HP as well as sound. These aren’t as often street legal (if running no cats) and can be a more labour-intensive install process. Long-tubes also won’t work with the factory mid-pipe, so you’ll also need to factor in the additional cost of a matching Y or X-pipe.
Regardless of style, headers are constructed from mild or stainless steel with either a plain, chrome or ceramic coating. Your best bet is likely the mild or stainless steel with ceramic coating to ensure longevity while also helping to control engine bay temperature.
Versatile Auxiliary Lighting
Naturally, more lighting means better visibility in difficult driving conditions, whether that’s a white-out, rain storm, or a night-time off-road adventure, but the addition of a light bar can also provide additional aggressive style to your Silverado. With assemblies ranging from a massive 50-inch bar that mounts to your roof, or more compact 12-20 inch single-row diode models better suited for the bumper or behind the grille, light bars are highly customizable. Water resistant, they are designed for durability and longevity with silicone lenses, an aluminum or stainless steel construction and a universal fitment. Most auxiliary assemblies will also feature a spot/flood beam design, with the centre of the bar providing a spot beam and the right and left sides a flood beam. This design ensures both improved forward and periphery lighting, and thus better visibility all round.
Safely Haul & Tow
One of the more budget-friendly recovery tools, a D-ring is also one of the safest. Unlike an open-ended tow hook, a D-ring uses a shackle or screw-in pin to close the connection, meaning the load is shared across its D-shaped ring body and pin, and there’s little chance of a strap or chain slipping off. Compatible with front and rear bumpers as well as hitch receivers, D-rings will add an extra degree of functionality and security. Manufactured from heavy duty steel, some D-rings may feature bright powder coat finishes as a means of adding some extra visual contrast, while others will include an insulator to reduce noise and protect that colorful powder coat.
