So, in doing some research here in this forum, I have learned that there is only 2" overall difference (1" per side) between a drw dana 80 and a srw dana 80. I am considering a dually conversion, and my question is, regarding the rear end, are there any benefits to actually converting to a factory dual rear end? Or is it just easier to get some 1" spacers on the rear with longer lug studs? Is there any strength difference between the dually dana 80 vs the single?

 

I am thinking you might get someone to argue the pt........but I cant think of one

 

I'm going to convert my 99 2500 to a dually, haven't started yet just doing research now. Found a website southwestwheel.com that has dually conversion kits. Anyone have any experience with this? Also at chromewheel.com

 

If you use a dually for hauling or heavy towing, there is nothing better. If bopping around town and trying to park they are a PIA esdpecially a manual eqauiped one. Would not have as only vehicle. JMHO of course.

 

I ran the arrowcraft adaptors from chromewheel with ford wheels for a couple of hundred thousand miles hauling 30k gross. Never had a problem. The wheels are wider for sure.

 

You might want to double check your numbers. The pickup DRW D80 is wider than the Cab and chassis DRW D80, which is again wider than the pickup SRW D80. Dually wheels will not fit on to a SRW drum brake rear end, and I don't think 1" spacers will make up that difference. If I recall my measurements, the pickup DRW D80 was about 79" WMS to WMS. Meausre your SRW and see.

 

This is for a good reason. The frame on a commercial truck is 34 inches and on a pickup it is 36 to 38 inches wide. You are not considering the backspacing of the wheels. The single axle needs to be another 10 inches or so wider to bolt the dual wheel backspaced wheel on. The whole mess will come out a couple inches wider than the standard dual wheel axle. It will measure a bit over 8 feet wide.

 

That was my point, as the OP said he found out the SRW was only 2" narrower than a DRW, I was saying it was more than that.

 

Found a couple front hub extensions at a salvage yard from a 94. Will these bolt up to 99 2500? Hate to spend the money if it won't work.