I'm not sure what I should do. I want a quadcab 4x4 Diesel. I'm pretty set on a CTD. Had a 91 back in the day and loved it...

I'm in Alaska and want to eventually pull a 27ft Vnose enclosed snowmobile trailer. But, I will be using this as my daily driver also. I am a network engineer, and I go all over town consulting and fixing every day. Would a 3500 be overkill you think? I am not sure the ride difference in the two. I want a semi cushy ride in town and be able to hand a loaded trailer fine on the rough AK roads.

Any input would really be appreciated. I am looking to get an 05 maybe a super cherry 04 or something if the dealer has.

 

The SRW 3500 basically only adds cab lights, a little extra weight rating, and some overload springs that don't seem to come into play until there is 1200 lbs or so in back...

 

Jeff, Depends on the age what is different. I think '03 (I know it's current body) is when they started makeing SRW 3500's.

As for over kill. I would say 3500 is over kill for that duty. Anything DRW would definatly to much. I know the 4X4's tend to ride better than 2wd. I had a 4 B.T. powered '69 3/4 ton with 14,500 (21,000 total)on a flat bed ball hitch and it was O.K. Not confortable but O.K. I made it the 50 miles after adjusting the load. My '99 confortable with 13,000 (19,500 total) on a ball. Also had a empty 35' TT going up 7% grades. Only problem was from a plugged roll over check valve reduceing power.

Randy

 

I think the 3500 is perfect for your needs.. I'm a little biased though.......

For the small difference in price why not get a 3500?

 

Hmm..

Im biased.. I like the 2500, BUT i so understand the 3500 can do anything and everything the 1500 and 2500 can do, If its an occasional tow, the 2500 will do, if its hooked constantly well, look into that 3500.

Tx

 

You have no need for a dually.....and if getting around in those Alaskan winters is important, the SRW will be superior in the snow. You definintely don't need a DRW to pull a 27' sled trailer either. Don't get me wrong - I love duallies! I own one myself, but if the 2500 meets your needs (which it does), then I would suggest a 2500 over 3500.

 

In some areas, you may not be able to find a 3500 you like. I found that out in my area, there were very few.. Wanted a white SLT, few items for working.. What I got was a silver SLT, with sport look, and some extra goodies making it look a little to pretty for my likings, but she gets picked up the 05 of July....

My reason for getting a 3500 was the sticker in the door, and overloads. I intend on towing a few times, wanted the little extra insurance for DOT, and HP.

 

"Overkill?" said the general.... "Istill have bombs left!" I dno't necessarily need a DWR.... but it's kool and for those few times I do have to tow something it's fun to say "look ma... no foot on the pedal!"

 

I wasn't really contemplating a 3500 dually. Just a single. Keep em coming! I appreciate the info.

 

Is it me, or has Dodge reduced the payload capacity of the Cummins 2500's since my '96? I believe my 2wd is rated for 3200# payload capacity, whereas the '05's are more like 2600#. Is it just a generally heavier truck, and therefore the lower rating?

I personally think the 2500 would be more than enough, and I think you would have better selection, just my $.02.

 

So, you are looking for a 3rd gen then? There isn't much difference between the 3500 SRW and the 2500.....as it has been already mentioned, on the 3500 SRW, you get a set of overloads that boost the rear GAWR and boost the GVWR up to 9900 lbs......oh, and a sticker on the door that tells you so. That is it - everything else is identical......you would be fine with either one but a 2500 would meet your requirements.

 

Payload is just GVWR minus curb weight. My 2500 has a GVWR of 8800 lbs and a curb weight of 6680 lbs.....so, I have a payload capacity of 2120 lbs.

 

as long as you don't get a dually...I would drive both and see if you notice a difference. I suspect you won't....but the 3500 will be overkill, based on your description.

I would not recommend a dually for anyone spending a lot of time around town...and I personally prefer the SRW in snow & slippery roads.

RJ

 

New the difference was just a little over $100.00, so I figured why not?

I will have problems over working this truck!



Rick