First off can anyone tell me what to expect with a 2 WD 3500 dually as far as traction wise on bad winter roads? Second question, from what I hear you don't need the engine heater very often in cold temps but if I do use it is there a maximum amount of time it can be left plugged in?

 

To answer the heater question, you can leave it plugged in if you want, but it will show on your electric bill. As far as traction, i just bought my 2wd also, so we will see how it goes.
Ryan

 

I've driven a lot of 2x4 duallies in the snow and the more it weighs the further it goes. When it weighs 13,000 it will go thru about 3 ft of snow unless there is ice under it. But when it finally does get stuck, just stop and call a BIG tow truck!!!
As far as the block heater goes, nothing wrong with leaving it plugged in except for the next month's bill. I would run a cord to the house and plug it in a half hour or so before I want to leave or get an automatic timer controll to turn it on at a specific time. Have fun in the snow!!!

 

I agree with Hemi Cat. My 2WD LS dually does ok with weight in the bed. I keep the Lance 1121 on it during the winter. Without the camper I was throwing in 850#s of bagged sand over the rear axle.

 

Cummins recommends a two hour plug-it time maximum, saying longer just uses more electricity needlessly. I have a 2500 CTD, with 55psi in rears/65psi fronts, and about 500lbs in the bed you can get around quite well. Place the weight over the rear axle and secure it for safety. Remember the B series Cummins engine weighs 940lbs + accessories, so the front tires will sink in mud and unpacked snow, creating drag.

 

I had my 12v last year and on one of the snowmobile trips the high was 5 and the lows were -22. It sat for two days NOT PLUGGED IN, all I did to start it was to let the heater grid cycle 2x and it chugged but started. Fall prep CHECK YOUR BATTERYS AND CHANGE YOUR FUEL FILTER AND RUN 25% -40% NUMBER 1. 4x4 more than doubles traction but don't try to be a hero and you will be fine.