Last Saturday I test drove a new 2003 3500 Quadcab SWB with the HO Cummins/6spd. I'm very impressed! The comfort and quietness is unreal for a diesel truck, especially compared to the original Cummins diesel. <br> Now the big question, a 2500 or 3500 series? I didn't get a chance to test drive a 2500 so would this model have a better highway ride than the 3500? Since this truck is going to be the main family travel vehicle my wife wants comfort first. <br><br>Thanks<br><br>MikeyB<br><br>

 

Mikey<br><br>I went with the SRW 3,500. I pull a pretty good size RV, canopy with larger boat loader/boat and trailer on top and assorted gear for extended trips. Squatted my old '88 Ford 3/4 Ton down pretty severe.<br><br>Mine rides very very nice, I would assume as well as a 2500. If you look at the rear springs, the overloads are like 3&quot; from anything. Will take quite a load to get them in use. I believe that is the idea, smooth ride, but weight carry capable when you need it. <br><br>Plus, you get that door sticker that will allow you to load more legally. Not sure what you are doing with the truck.<br><br>Welcome aboard<br><br>Hunter<br><br>

 

I am going to go testdrive one this weekend. Dealer is going to sell me a 2500 Quad Cab SLT, upgraded interior, fog lamps, security package, towing group, for $33558 out the door. Not bad.

 

Thanks,<br> I'm leaning towards the 3500 for that very reason, better load and towing capacity. I even told my wife that it rides better than her Isuzu Rodeo. Most of the time it will be used for commuting and hauling a handful of ATVs and a Kawasaki Mule to the deer lease. Future plans may include a travel trailer.<br> The one big turn off for me with the 3500 is the standard clearance lamps on the roof. I wish there was a delete option for the SRW models.<br><br>MikeyB<br>

 

MickeyB,
You really need to know the size loads you will be carrying in the bed and the size trailer you plan to tow. The 3500 gives you the max load carrying capacity, whereas, the 2500 gives you the greater towing capacity. Check out the figures.

You say future plans include a travel trailer. How big? The size and floor plan and number of slides in your plans will likely change as you start shopping for the trailer, wives have a way of wanting to upgrade. You will need to please her or you will have one unhappy camper until you do.

How long you plan to keep the truck is another factor to consider in your decision. Buying a new truck is a big investment for most of us, a major decision.

 

Last weekend I test drove a 2500 QC with the Cummins. Very impressed with the ride, in fact, this truck rides better than my half ton Chevy. <br> The biggest (heaviest) item that will be going in the bed is my ATV (700lbs) and the typical duties of hauling dirt and mulch for yard work. And the occasional 1000lbs+ of deer corn for the lease.<br> Future plans on the travel trailer, probably in the neighborhood of a 24'. There's only three of us so no need in getting a fiver.<br><br>Thanks<br><br>MikeyB

 

Consider a 5er, they tow without sway, and have less wind resistance than a travel trailer, therefore more fuel efficient. Consider this three of you in a 24 travel trailer can be crowded on those rainy days when you are out. A 5er up to 28 ft will be no longer when towing than a 24 ft travel trailer. A 5er has ample storage for 3 a travel trailer doesn't.

 

The problem with the fiver is where will the ATV go??? <br><br>MikeyB

 

How about a Toyhauler Fifth wheel? Maybe you can haul two 4 wheelers if you buy the right fifth wheel.