I know the Cummins is not available in the 1500, but what are the differences between a 1500 and a 2500?

I know the 2500 has 8 lug wheels, but are the frames different, brakes,axles etc?

I use the trucks for offroad work in the oilfield and have always bought 2500's because the seem to be "stouter", but I am having a hard time finding a 2500 4x4 reg cab right now and I have located a 1500 4x4 reg cab that looks nice. We don't pull any large trailers or haul a ton of weight in the back so I am sure we will be within the 1500's capacities, but I am curious as to which components will be weaker on a 1500 vs a 2500.

 

Basicly every thing you said, and more. But parts are expensive too. Frame is much heavier, axle's are heavier, tires and wheels heavier(and higher cost too) Load range E tires with 80 psi inflation pressure run hard but are stronger than the baloney skins that they put on 1500's.
Cost's more to buy, cost more to register, and may cost more to insure (Due to heavier duty) "But Worth it"

 

Pretty much the only thing they share is the body and bed.
Maybe some wiring harnesses.


phox

 

Ive got one of each settin outside right now. We could argue the frame because most maufacturers dont want to make a different platform for similar vehicles. All the running gear is different. The 2500 is heavier no doubt about it. Ive run that 1500 up and down the beaches of NC going anywhere I want to go. I put a leveling kit on it to get more weight over the rear axel for better traction in soft sand. You can put an LT tire on them no prblem. Its a **** Good Truck. The fuel economy SUCKS. 318 V8 with a 285 16 tire 10.5 mpg around town here in Va Beach. 2500 CTD 20 mpg with the same tire. The 2500 costs twice as much. My 1500 Quad cab is for sale. Oh....dont forget the Transmission. The lighter autos dont hold up so well. I also pull a 20 ft boat. The 1500 does this pretty well also. It did not like the previous 24 footer at all. I hope to move up to 25 over the next year or so I decided Id better have something to pull it with first. I think the 2500 will last longer but you know what type work you plan to do and how long you plan to do it. Average the cost over that period and make a decision. Its only $

 

Like others said, essentially everything. Axles, transmission, transfer case, suspension, frame.