New Allison® 10-speed transmission

New Allison® 10-speed transmission matched with proven Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel
Maximum power and towing capability in new Silverado HD lineup comes from the proven Duramax 6.6L V-8 Turbo-Diesel with 910 lb-ft of torque. Its towing capability is increased up to 52 percent with driveline improvements including the addition of the all-new Allison® 10-speed automatic transmission — a legendary Duramax/Allison® combination that contributes to the Silverado HD’s 35,500-pound max towing rating, when properly equipped.

A diesel after-run feature specifically for use following a demanding towing situation is an additional new technology for the Duramax engine. The after-run allows the engine to keep running for up to 15 minutes to allow it to cool down using the fan and circulating coolant. If the driver puts the truck in park when an after-run situation is needed, an alert will appear on the driver information cluster directing them to keep the engine running for cool down. Should the customer ignore the message and exit the vehicle, the truck will restart on its own via remote start mode for cool-down. At that point the customer can walk away and the truck will turn itself off when the engine reaches an acceptable temperature.

The all-new Allison® 10-speed automatic transmission combined with improved driveline components is better at transferring all of the Duramax’s torque to the pavement, allowing more torque to be put to the ground in lower gears, enhancing the overall driving dynamics and trailering with smoother gear changes and shorter steps between them. It also supports smart engine braking, which can help reduce brake wear. The Duramax/Allison® combination’s standard axle ratio is lowered to 3.42:1, which reduces engine speed, therefore enhancing refinement.

“The 6.6L V-8 Duramax diesel and Allison® transmission is a legendary combination in the HD truck market with proven durability and capability that our customers expect,” said West. “For 2020, we made the combination even better and upgraded nearly every driveline component. As a result, we deliver all 910 lb-ft of torque to the ground in first gear.”

For customers powering other equipment with their trucks on the job site, an all-new, factory-integrated engine-driven Power Take Off (PTO) is available and eliminates the need for an aftermarket unit. Exclusively offered with the Allison® 10-speed transmission on select diesel models, it’s the first fully integrated PTO system of its kind in the HD truck segment, with the PTO’s drive gear operated via chain to direct engine power. And because it is engine-driven rather than turbine-driven, owners can use the PTO while the vehicle is idling. A button inside the cab enables the PTO, and a mode selector allows adjustment of load and torque output.