The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ is a dependable and heavy-duty vehicle designed for various commercial and industrial purposes. Known for its strength, spacious cargo capacity, and solid engineering, this truck has become a trusted asset for delivery companies, moving services, and contractors. With a towering height of 13 feet and 6 inches, this truck is engineered to accommodate bulky and tall items that other vehicles can’t handle.
Built by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand, the C6500 series is part of the Kodiak and TopKick lineup, which includes medium-duty trucks ranging from C4500 to C8500. The C6500 falls right in the middle, offering a balance of power and maneuverability. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″, including its specs, capabilities, advantages, and why it continues to be a solid choice on the used truck market.
Design and Dimensions
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ features a tall and spacious cargo area, which is the highlight of this vehicle. The “13’6″” in the name refers to the overall height of the truck, making it suitable for transporting taller equipment or oversized loads. The box is mounted on a robust chassis, designed to endure the heavy demands of industrial transportation.
Standard box lengths vary, commonly ranging between 20 to 26 feet long, with widths around 96 to 102 inches. This spacious design ensures plenty of room for palletized goods, furniture, appliances, or even custom equipment setups.
The vehicle’s wheelbase options can range from 175 inches to over 250 inches, offering flexibility based on what the truck will be used for. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for the C6500 is typically around 25,950 pounds, allowing for a substantial payload without requiring a commercial driver’s license in many states.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ usually comes with a diesel engine, most notably the Duramax 6.6-liter V8 or the Caterpillar C7 7.2-liter inline-6. These engines are engineered for endurance, fuel efficiency, and torque — the qualities most sought after in commercial vehicles.
The Duramax 6.6L diesel engine provides between 260 and 300 horsepower, coupled with a strong torque output that helps move even the heaviest of loads. This engine is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance, making it a favorite among fleet operators.
The Caterpillar C7 engine, another common option, is praised for its durability and low-end torque. It performs well under tough conditions and is ideal for those who use the truck for towing or constant stop-and-go city deliveries.
Most models of the C6500 are equipped with Allison 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmissions. These transmissions are smooth-shifting and designed to handle the torque demands of a medium-duty truck. The drivetrain layout is typically rear-wheel drive, with dual rear wheels (DRW) to provide added traction and stability when carrying heavy loads.
Interior Features and Driver Experience
While primarily built for utility, the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ does not neglect driver comfort. The cab is functional and ergonomic, designed for long days on the road. It usually features two bucket seats or a driver’s seat with a passenger bench.
The dashboard is straightforward, giving the driver easy access to controls and clear visibility of all instruments. Many units come with air conditioning, tilt steering, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo. Options like power windows, heated mirrors, and air-ride suspension seats enhance comfort further.
The high driving position gives an excellent view of the road, which is a major safety benefit when navigating tight city streets or industrial yards. The cab is also well insulated against engine and road noise, making for a more relaxed driving experience during long hauls.
Cargo Space and Utility
The primary reason to invest in a 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ is its impressive cargo space. With a ceiling height of 13 feet 6 inches, the box can easily handle oversized and stacked cargo. The rear door is usually a roll-up type, allowing quick access to the cargo area. Some models also include side doors for convenience and optional liftgates to aid in loading and unloading.
The box can be customized with shelves, lighting, climate control, or tool racks depending on the needs of the operator. It’s this flexibility that makes the truck ideal for businesses ranging from delivery services and logistics to mobile repair workshops and construction site equipment hauling.
The high clearance also makes it perfect for transporting tall items like furniture, appliances, vending machines, or large equipment. This truck is frequently used by moving companies because it provides enough vertical room to load large items without tilting or disassembling them.
Common Use Cases
The versatility of the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ makes it useful in a variety of commercial settings:
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Moving and relocation companies
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Appliance and furniture delivery
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Regional freight and logistics services
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Contractors transporting building materials or tools
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Mobile businesses like tool vendors, repair shops, or even mobile medical units
Because of its relatively moderate size compared to larger tractor-trailers, the truck is easier to maneuver in urban environments while still offering the cargo space of a full-sized box truck.
Maintenance and Reliability
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ is well-regarded for its reliability and longevity. With proper care, these trucks can last well over 300,000 miles. Routine maintenance like oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotation should be performed on schedule to ensure long-term durability.
One of the advantages of this truck is the availability of replacement parts. Both the Duramax and Caterpillar engines have wide support networks and aftermarket availability. Mechanics familiar with diesel engines will find it easy to work on these models.
It’s also worth noting that the C6500 was built before the adoption of complex emissions systems found in later models, making them easier and cheaper to maintain in some jurisdictions. However, buyers should ensure the truck complies with current emissions regulations in their area.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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High box clearance (13’6″) for oversized cargo
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Durable diesel engine options
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Excellent load capacity without requiring a CDL in many cases
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Widely available parts and service
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Customizable for different business applications
Cons:
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Older model means modern tech features are missing
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May not meet emissions standards in all states
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Large size requires skilled drivers and route planning
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Discontinued model, so factory support is limited
Buying Considerations
If you are in the market for a used 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″, here are some key tips:
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Inspect the chassis for signs of rust or wear, especially in snowy regions
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Review service records to ensure regular maintenance
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Test the liftgate and rear door operation
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Ensure the vehicle’s height won’t be a problem for your routes
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Verify GVWR to match your payload needs
Pricing for a well-maintained unit typically ranges between $18,000 and $35,000 depending on mileage, condition, and features such as liftgates or climate-controlled cargo boxes.
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Conclusion
The 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ is a strong performer in the medium-duty truck category. Its high-clearance cargo box, powerful diesel engines, and flexible configurations make it an excellent choice for a wide range of businesses. Despite its age, it remains a cost-effective and practical solution for those who need a dependable truck for hauling tall or bulky items.
Whether you’re operating a logistics company, expanding a delivery fleet, or starting a mobile business, the 2009 Chevrolet C6500 Box Truck 13’6″ offers the size, strength, and reliability to get the job done.