I thought I saw something saying you can convert the Dodge 2500 to 3500 class fairly easily; that is the trucks are identical except for a few minor parts that can be changed out. Can anyone comment on this?

I'm easing into the market to get a used 2003 or 2004 Dodge Diesel pickup. I'd like a 3500 but the configuration I want (Single rear wheel, short bed) is a bit rare. It's much easier to find that in a 2500.

I'm intending to pull a Travel Trailer with it, so a 3500 isn't a show stopper. But I plan on keeping the truck a long time...and who knows the future...so if I can't find the 3500 I want, I'd like the ability to upgrade the 2500 if need be.

 

Hey, you made it over here to the good guys (the Dodge guys) site. Welcome.

I am sure you can find some good info from some of these characters that have approached this challenge.

You could also try the "search" button at the top of this screen. There is probably a wealth of info on the topic all ready.

Bob

 

Hi Bob, and thanks for the referral. In doing some more searching I found someone saying:

From thread @
http://www.motorhomemagazine.com/for...g/14508412.cfm
"""
Difference in a 2500 w/Cummins and 3500SRW Dodge with Cummins is additional helper springs on the rear, and marker lights on the roof. No other difference. Now if you have a 2500 with a hemi, the axle is smaller than the 3500SRW with the hemi.

You can add helper springs (timbrens or helwig), and you will have the same truck as the 3500SRW, but it will not increase your GVWR. Personal decision as to whether or not you are ok with exceeding the GVWR or not, knowing this information. Some folks on here live and breath by the GVWR, others don't.
"""

I found some posts saying the brakes ARE bigger on the 3500 DRW, but the 3500 and 2500 SRW are the same. (SRW is what I'm looking to get.)

So when some people are posting "you can not increase the GVWR
of the 2500" they are talking about the *rating* sticker on the door, NOT what the truck can actually do. Uhmm SO WHAT? We know what the 3500 ratings are and can abide by those. If this is correct, I don't see a reason to avoid a 2500.

Comments from wiser folks please.

 

Check out http://xj.cdevco.net/auto/dodgetowing/

There have been VERY minor brake rotor width differences found between a 3500 DUALLY 4x4 and a 2500 SRW 4X4. The 2500 4x4 == 3500 4x2 If I remember correctly.

 

JUST A LITTLE NOTE ABOUT THE BRAKE DIFFERENCE. THERE ISN'T ANY! THE PADS AS WELL AS THE ROTORS ARE THE EXACT SAME BE IT A 2500 OR A 3500. YOU SHOULD HAVE NO PROBLEMS JUST ADDING THE HELPER SPRINGS AND HEADING DOWN THE ROAD.

 

Welcome aboard dcinege, another topic search you may want to look for is overweight towing. We've all read some horror stories on the 'net about some moron getting himself into legal trouble; but fortunately for me its only hearsay since I've never known any of these fellows.

As you say, its all about adhering to or exceeding the GVWR and/or GCVWR. I'm not so concerned about guys with trucks like ours hauling some weight, but am concerned when the so-called "Weekend Wally" comes flying up the road behind me in his halfton pickemup truck pulling a huge trailer.

Travist, no need for all caps unless you are indeed yelling at everyone....

 

Now Bulabula, that just ain't so. I done sawed one - - - it belonged to the phsyc man.

 

FiverBob, its good to know that someone there isn't nutz!!!

 

here in vegas when i was looking i could only find 3500 shortboxes...very few longboxes and if so they were work trucks that where striped...so i ended up with a 3500 SRW

 

I've seen more short beds than long. I'd keep looking or ask your dealer to find you one....