Why Consider the 2500HD for Touring in Australia
The Silverado 2500HD is a genuine heavyweight in the pickup world. In its Australian-market form, it’s powered by a 6.6-litre turbo-diesel V8 putting out around 332 kW and a staggering 1,234 Nm of torque.
This kind of grunt makes it ideal for towing large caravans, off-road setups, or heavy gear — you’re not just lugging luggage, you’re hauling serious payload. Compared with smaller 4×4 utes, it’s more capable, especially if you’re planning long trips with a lot of gear or a heavier caravan.
HOW THE BUILD STARTED
We used the team at BIG DOG BUILDS to manage the build process of our Chevy. These guys can look after everything. You plan the build with them as they have an extensive knowledge on what’s needed. You then pick up a completed build ready for touring.
Towing & Weight Capacities
We have upgraded our “GVM” on this build. There are GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) mods available (through specialist companies) like BIG DOG BUILDS that can raise the GVM. This build is increased to ~5828 kg, dramatically increasing payload, while retaining the 4.5 tonne towing capacity. This upgrade opens up more capacity for the addition of a NORWELD canopy, camping gear & rooftop tents or boat setups.
THE NORWELD CANOPY
How do you build the Ultimate Touring Vehicle??? Chuck a Norweld tray and canopy on it, that’s how!! The setup on our Chev is a 2286mm Elite tray base with a 1740mm canopy. The passenger side consists of the Dometic NRX 115litre upright fridge with a kitchen table drawer combo and pull out overhead pantry.
On the drivers side we have opted for an open storage space with removable overhead shelf. It also houses the 3000watt Redarc inverter and Twin ARB compressor and air tank. Having this side open allows us to utilise it for a range of different storage options like swags, extra fridges, trunks etc…
12 VOLT OFFGRID POWER BY REDARC
The Chevy has a full REDARC power system installed in the canopy by Norweld as part of their premium wiring package. This consists of:
- 2 x 300 amp Redlab Icon lithium batteries
- 1 x manager alpha 100
- 2 x 200watt solar panels mounted on the accessory rack and the rooftop tent
- 1 x 3000watt inverter
- Redvision management and control screen
- tvms prime power control and automation
This system allows full offgrid adventures with enough juice to run everything from a phone charger to a portable aircon!!
THE BUSH COMPANY ROOFTOP TENT AND AWNING
Heavy-Duty Hard Shell RTT with Integrated Power
The AX27 Clamshell Rooftop Tent by The Bush Company is a hard shell rooftop tent designed for overlanding and 4WD touring. It features a gas-strut assisted opening system, 310gsm acrylic-infused canvas, and a dual-density 80mm mattress. The B-Tech™ Alloy frame supports a 200kg dynamic roof load when closed and 50kg static load when open. Three access points with mesh screens allow for flexible entry and ventilation. Integrated 12V and USB power ports and Ezi-Slot™ accessory channels support modular setup without modification. Suitable for off-road and remote travel
WANT MORE INFO ON THE BUILD????
YOU CAN WATCH A SERIES OF YOUTUBE VIDS ON HOW WE BUILT THE CHEVY HERE:
