Has anyone opted for the 2500 SRW and installed airbags vs the 3500 SRW w/out airbags for hauling heavy slide-ins? Local dealer has several 04.5 2500's but no 3500 SRW in stock....atleast for another month or so. After several searches it looks like the only differances are the overloads and over-cab lights. BTW, I haul a Lance 820 on my current 01 with overloads which sits fairly level.

 

"Has anyone opted for the 2500 SRW and installed airbags vs the 3500 SRW w/out airbags for hauling heavy slide-ins?"

How heavy? My LanceLite 8.5' weighs about 2700# with water. (They call it Lite?) Is a "heavy" slide-in 12.5' long? That's heavy. You NEED a dually for that, and you will also need airbags. My SB truck without camper package sagged badly without the air bags, even though the slide-in is made for the short bed and is "Lite". I think I like the air bags without the camper package because without the camper I can deflate the airbags, reset the Rancho 9000's, unair the tires, and get a very comfy ride. Would the camper package have real stiff rear springs and ride like a truck?

 

I have read some negative feedback on the airbag systems for the '03+. Something about it actually detracting from suspension travel and causing a harsh ride when unloaded? I'm sure someone else will chime in with more on that... Maybe try a search, too? I sure would like to have a set on mine, because with the 2" leveling kit, just about any load in the back or tongue weight puts my headlights right into oncoming traffic's eyes, and they don't like it much