A Guide to the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 13’6″ Box Truck
I learned about the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to when I needed a strong truck for moving heavy equipment. This truck is part of the medium-duty truck family. It is made for carrying big loads over long distances. The number 13’6 means the height is 13 feet 6 inches, which is important for passing under bridges and tunnels.
This truck uses diesel fuel and has a strong Duramax engine. It can hold a lot of weight in the back box, which is used for packages, furniture, tools, and more. It is popular with delivery businesses, construction companies, and moving services.
Here are a few quick facts:
- Truck height: 13 feet 6 inches
- Engine: 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel
- Transmission: Automatic (usually Allison 5-speed or 6-speed)
- Fuel type: Diesel
- Weight class: Medium-duty (GVWR can go up to 25,950 lbs)
When I used this truck, I noticed it was reliable, and the box space kept my items safe from weather. It helped me carry large loads without needing a commercial driver’s license (CDL), as long as it was under 26,000 lbs.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Make & Model | Chevrolet C6500 |
| Model Year | 2009 |
| Vehicle Type | Medium-Duty Box Truck |
| Body Length | 13 feet 6 inches (13’6″) |
| GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) | Up to 25,950 lbs |
| Engine Options | 6.6L Duramax Diesel V8 (standard) |
| Horsepower | ~300 hp @ 3,100 RPM (varies slightly by engine model) |
| Torque | ~520–660 lb-ft @ 1,600 RPM |
| Transmission | Allison 1000 Series 5-speed automatic or manual (optional) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50–70 gallons (varies by configuration) |
| Wheelbase Options | 152″ to 260″ |
| Cab Type | Regular Cab or Crew Cab |
| Payload Capacity | Approx. 10,000–12,000 lbs (depending on upfit and configuration) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 16,000 lbs (when properly equipped) |
| Brake System | Hydraulic disc brakes with ABS |
| Suspension | Multi-leaf spring front and rear |
| Turning Radius | Approx. 22–30 ft (depends on wheelbase) |
| Box Features | Roll-up rear door, hardwood floor, e-track system (may vary by outfitter) |
| Estimated MPG | ~8–12 MPG (unloaded, varies with load and terrain) |
| Common Uses | Moving, delivery, freight, local logistics |
| Resale Price (2025) | $15,000 – $28,000 (based on condition, mileage, and features) |
How much weight can the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to carry?
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to is made to carry heavy things. It belongs to Class 6 trucks. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for this truck is usually around 25,950 pounds. This means the total weight of the truck and everything inside it can be up to that number.
When I filled the truck with tools, boxes, and some furniture, I stayed below that weight. This made sure the truck was safe on the road. Going over the GVWR can cause problems, like braking issues or tire damage.
Here’s what I kept in mind:
- Truck weight (empty): About 10,000–12,000 lbs
- Load capacity: Around 13,000–15,000 lbs
- GVWR: Up to 25,950 lbs
If the box is 24 feet long, it can fit things like:
- Pallets of building materials
- Large office furniture
- Restaurant equipment
- Landscaping tools
Always check the axle ratings and the load balance. I used a scale at a truck stop to make sure my load was safe and legal.
How does the engine and fuel system perform?
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to comes with a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine. When I drove it, I felt the power right away. It was strong enough to climb hills even with a full load. The engine is known for lasting a long time if you take care of it.
It makes around 300 horsepower and over 500 lb-ft of torque. The truck can pull heavy trailers and still move smoothly. The fuel tank size is usually between 40 and 60 gallons. I used diesel, which gave better fuel economy than gas for long trips.
Things I noticed:
- Fuel type: Diesel only
- MPG: About 8–11 miles per gallon
- Turbocharger helps with towing power
- Reliable cooling system keeps the engine safe
I checked the oil and filters often. Clean filters help the engine work better and last longer. I also used good diesel fuel with low sulfur, as this helps the engine stay clean inside.
What does the interior look like?
Inside the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to, the cab is built for work. It has two or three seats in the front. There’s space behind the seats for tools or small bags. The seat is firm but comfy enough for long drives. I used it for 10-hour shifts without feeling too tired.
It has simple controls. The dashboard shows fuel level, oil pressure, engine temperature, and speed. Some models come with air conditioning and a basic radio. I found the steering to be easy, and the visibility from the driver’s seat is wide and clear.
Features include:
- Durable vinyl seats
- Rubber flooring for easy cleaning
- Cup holders and storage bins
- Optional power windows and locks
I liked the tall cab design. It gave me headroom and space to stretch. The step-up into the cab was high, so I used the handholds each time.
What kind of maintenance does it need?
To keep the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to running well, I followed a regular service schedule. I changed the oil every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Diesel engines need clean fuel and air filters. I also watched for coolant leaks and made sure the belts were not cracked.
Here’s a basic checklist I used:
- Oil change: Every 5,000–7,000 miles
- Fuel filter: Replace every 10,000–15,000 miles
- Air filter: Check every 10,000 miles
- Transmission service: Every 30,000 miles
- Brake check: Every 6 months
The tires wear fast if the truck carries full loads all the time. I rotated the tires every 8,000 miles. The truck’s brakes are strong, but they wear out if the truck is always fully loaded. I kept an eye on the brake pads and lines.
Regular checks saved me money later. It helped me avoid big problems with the engine, transmission, or brakes.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to safe?
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to has strong safety features for its size and year. It has air brakes or hydraulic brakes, depending on the model. Mine had hydraulic brakes, and they worked well under load. The truck also has ABS to stop the wheels from locking.
I used seat belts every time. The cab is made with strong steel to keep the driver and passenger safe. Side mirrors are large, and some models come with rear cameras or sensors.
Safe driving tips I followed:
- Use the mirrors often
- Keep at least 4 seconds between vehicles
- Check blind spots before turning
- Use wheel chocks when parked on slopes
The truck is tall. I had to know the height (13’6”) to avoid hitting low bridges or signs. That number is marked clearly on the dashboard as a reminder.
How much does it cost and where can I find it?
When I bought the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to, I found prices between $15,000 and $30,000. The cost depends on how many miles it has, what condition it’s in, and what features are inside. Trucks with new tires, working air conditioning, and low mileage are worth more.
Places to check:
- Used truck dealers
- Online websites like TruckPaper or CommercialTruckTrader
- Local auctions or fleet sales
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist
I asked for the maintenance records and looked under the hood. I also checked for rust, tire wear, and brake condition. A clean title with no damage history is a good sign.
Some sellers offer warranty plans. I chose one that covered the engine and transmission for 6 months.
What can you use the truck for?
I used the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to for moving heavy items, but it has many other uses. It can serve small businesses, local deliveries, and even mobile workshops. The 13’6” height lets you carry taller items and still stay under many bridge limits.
Example uses:
- Furniture delivery
- Moving services
- Tool storage for contractors
- Mobile repair shop
- Delivery for food or supplies
The box is weatherproof. I kept electronics inside and they stayed dry during rain. Some people even convert these trucks into food trucks or campers.
The long frame and wide box help you set up shelves, tie-downs, and ramps inside. I added plywood walls to keep the cargo from sliding.
Table: Quick Specs of the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Height | 13 feet 6 inches |
| Engine | 6.6L Duramax Diesel |
| Transmission | Allison Automatic (5 or 6-speed) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| GVWR | Up to 25,950 lbs |
| MPG | 8–11 miles per gallon |
| Interior Seating | 2–3 seats |
| Brake System | Hydraulic or Air Brakes |
| Typical Price Range | $15,000–$30,000 |
| Box Uses | Delivery, Moving, Mobile Workshop |
FAQ
Q: Do I need a CDL to drive this truck?
A: Not if it’s under 26,000 lbs GVWR. Most 2009 Chevrolet C6500 box truck 13’6 to models are just below that.
Q: Can it tow a trailer?
A: Yes. It can tow light to medium trailers. Check the hitch and GVWR.
Q: What is the lifespan of the engine?
A: With good care, the Duramax engine can last over 300,000 miles.
Q: Can I drive it in cities?
A: Yes, but watch for low bridges and tight corners due to its size.
Q: How high is the inside of the box?
A: It depends on the body, but many are 8–9 feet tall inside.
