I'm considering upgrading my '93 W350 cuz I tow quite heavy in the hills (~25,000 > 28,000 GCVW)

Found a '98 quad Cb; 5spd (w/ gear vendor); DRW, that is fairly decked out (don't need frills...I will have to convert to dumping flatbed for my work and add under bed boxes and transfer tank for 'red-d') But it's priced pretty rich... ($18,000++)
What might be fair? I'm pretty caught on sticking to a 12V, and would like a CC or Quad. so I might be looking for awhile...

I like my '93 as it is pretty stout, but it is an auto, which is poor for braking on the downhills, and major TC slip uphill... (stock tranny and engine) I will need to be taking some major road trips as I need to find a new home, then need to tow my crawler / and related equip to the new destintation (or have a big auction)

any advice appreciated. Is there a max towing capacity marked on the door of a '98? I (DOT) would not like that. Mine is a Cab and Chassis, so just says 10,000# +
thx

 

A low mileage 98 12 valve, 5 speed is pretty rare and will draw top dollar. What color is it?

The only thing on the door is GVWR rating, it will be either 10,500 or maybe 11,000. In WA don't you register by weight? That is what the DOT will check, your registration.

 

get a upgraded trans/TC/VB for the 93 and bomb the engine a little.
and save $12,000+ dollars.

 

yeah, I register by weight, and keep trailer brakes serviced (triple axle) Just didn't want to have an argument with the 'butcher' WA DOT 'commercial vehicle inspector" (unfortunately he seems to like my road, plenty of tickets / impoundments from truckers bypassing the state weigh station of the other side of the river)

I've considered 'improving' the '93, (only has 160k miles) and even bought a DTT TC last year (have not installed yet) really need a 'jake brake' / and that ain't gonna happen too easily. + the 1st gen (lumber wagon) & std cab is pretty tight for extended RV trips, as we try to find an affordable joint to live. (our property taxes have gone from $800/yr to $8000 in 6 yrs, and we just got next yr's bill - $11,000 (thats $30/day just in taxes... ) I gave my job of 32 yrs to a 'co-worker ' in India, so my income went from $80k > $0, I missed 'retirement' by 6 wks , so... I guess WYO is the place to live (very low taxes) I will have extra cash in April, when I sell some commercial property, so... I need to buy whatever I think I'll be needing in the next 40 yrs...