3500 DRW Limited Capacity
 

I have a 2000 3500 DRW, CTD, 6 SP Man, 4X4 Reg Cab, 10' Alum Flatbed with Hoist. It's GVWR is 11k and it's unladed weight is 8,700lbs. That leaves me with 2,300 lbs of payload.

I purchased the truck with a steel Dump Bed and "I" pack and took both off in hopes of shaving some weight.

The truck pulls/tows like a beast. I pull a trailer of some sort almost daily. My lawn care business requires that I haul tank sprayers and pallets of fertilizer on a regular basis. I really thought that I would be ahead , by removing the heavier body and replacing with aluminum. I am but not by much.

The truck really squats down when I put the payload weight on it. It seems to me if the truck is that heavy unladen, then it's a fairly sturdy rig and should be able to handle a heavier load.

I really like this truck. It's only got 25k on it and runs great. It's the first "heavier" truck I have purchased for my business and the whole intention was to be able to haul more material to the job. I can but not much more.

Anyone that has a similar truck have any ideas or suggestions besides get a heavier truck.

Thank You

Nice truck...... I hate to say it but chances are you are probably going to have to go over the GVWR. Watch your GAWRs and tire pressures. Your rear GAWR is probably 8500 or so and front 5200 I think. If it squats too much, air bags or timbrens might be in order, although the truck should overload springs.

I decided I am going to put Timbrens on and see how they do. It does have the overload springs. However,I sometimes think the previous body that was on this truck was too much weight and the springs are somewhat worn out. They don't look bad, just had too much on them for too long.

Thanks for the reply.

I would put a set of Firestone Air Bags in the rear to stiffen it up. I don't know where your located, but in Florida you can register that truck at any GVW up to 19,500lbs in steps. With the air bags It should not squat and you could be legal with the higher GVW if your state allows it. Check with the DMV. If your just worried about the squat, the air bags should take care of it.

Dave