Been researching towing capacities. Dodge rates a 2500 Megacab CTD 4x4 SRW at 12,400 lbs and a 3500 Megacab CTD 4X4 SRW at 15,400 lbs. The only difference between these two trucks is a leaf spring and possibly tires. Why should I not just add airbags and make sure my rear loaded axle weight on my 2500 is within specs for the tires and call it a day??

 

Thats what I did, and it tows GREAT!!

 

The only way that the 3500 SRW is rated at 15,400 is if you get the 4.10s, just so ya know. If you get the 3.73s, it is 2k lbs less.

I had the same idea as you but one thing you are forgetting is that some states will get ya if you go over GVWR. For a 3500 it is 10,500lbs for a 2500 it is only 9,000lbs. thats a pretty huge difference if you wanna stay legal

 

I added the air bags to my 3500. Tows like a dream, nice and level. LOOKING GOOD is half the battle at not being bothered by the law pulling you over and getting out the portable scale.

I still have not figured out how GEARING changes the weight rating.

CD

 

It gives the engine more leverage to pull the load, so puts less strain on trans/driveshaft . ..

 

I undersdtand about the gearing, however I am more concerned about pulling safely. Gearing will not change that.

 

Mine is a 2WD 2500 with 4.10 gears. I added Timbrens and will eventually upgrade the shocks. It pulls great. My new 5th wheel is just over 10k unloaded and around 2k hitch weight. Mine stays fairly level. I thought about the airbags but did not want the air up/down work. Keeping it level will also keep other people from laughing and pointing. I have seen SUVs and minivans pulling 28+ foot travel trailers some without load levelers. Scary looking. \_/

 

What he said x2.