2500 or 3500

[MSalvatore]

so I am looking at 2 trucks to buy. one is a 2500 the other is a 3500. all options the same. but why a difference in tow rating?

 

[BFoughty]

Suspension. And if one is a Dully... . the extra tire/wheel

 

[fkovalski]

Coorect me if I am wrong (but it may answer the question... assuming the same ratio)...



Does the 3500 use AAM 11. 5 while the 2500 uses the 10. 5... ? Or are they all 11. 5 when coupled with the CTD?

 

[TAbbott]

They're the same axles -- same everything except for the rating plate and the insignia -- if they're single rear wheel except for the overload springs that come standard on the 3500. And you have to remove the overloads if you want to install air bags.

 

[Prairie Dog]

Not meaning to argue but you dont have to remove the overloads to install airbags on a third gen.

 

[BSwope]

Prairie Dog thats what i thought, im thinkin about puttin a set on mine sometime.

 

[TowPro]

I put new overload spring perch rubber on mine that is around 2" larger. No difference in the ride unloaded, and it sits level with my 5th hooked up where before it used to drop around 2".



Plus I hear the 3500 SRW rides better then the 2500 because the main spring is softer. then can make it softer because the overload springs kick in when you load the truck.

 

[fkovalski]

I put new overload spring perch rubber on mine that is around 2" larger. No difference in the ride unloaded, and it sits level with my 5th hooked up where before it used to drop around 2"...

I take you mean taller bump stops such that the overloads are engaged sooner... ? Which one did you use? Was it from Energy Suspesion?



Also- Can the 'constant' engagement of taller bump stops rub against the overloads (when loaded) to where it rubs the rubber constantly? (hence... wearing down however minimal over time. . ?) I have read where this may be a concern.



I almost would rather have a constant rate true 1 ton suspension (like the ole' days) rather than that of a progressive rate "2500 into 3500"...

... Plus I hear the 3500 SRW rides better then the 2500 because the main spring is softer. Then can make it softer because the overload springs kick in when you load the truck.

I do not think this is true (but I could be wrong. )

 

[JWChessell]

There are several threads in the last 4 years comparing the 2500 with the 3500 -- particularly the 2500 with the 3500 SRW. The rear brakes on the 3500 are "beefier;" the pistons are larger and some other parts are larger also. The 3500 has about 400 lbs more payload capacity than the 2500, and about 1,500 lbs more towing capacity -- just comparing SRW to SRW. Regarding the rear axles, compare the part numbers for the 2500 and the 3500. If they are different, then the 3500 is probably more robust. When I was getting ready to buy mine in 2003, I couldn't make up my mind between the 2500 and the 3500 SRW; I didn't think I needed the few "extras" that came with the 3500 SRW. The "War Dept. " said: "If you buy the 2500, you'll always wonder whether you should have purchased the 3500 SRW. " I thought that was pretty insightful for someone who is not very mechanical, and that statement helped me decide to buy the 3500 SRW. Never been sorry.

 

[JimB1]

If you happen to want Cummins Reg Cab Long Bed it's only available in 2500.

 

[NUKEMAN]

I would go for the 3500. It's not much of a jump in price, and the resale is a bit more. Plus, if you ever need those overloads they are there.

 

[JJPage]

My Insurance man was very happy I purchased a 3500, $$$$$ he could charge me for premiums . Also in Washington State they love you for your available payload capacity when licensing your rig .



Just something else to consider .

 

[brista]

My Insurance man was very happy I purchased a 3500, $$$$$ he could charge me for premiums . Also in Washington State they love you for your available payload capacity when licensing your rig .



Just something else to consider .

The world is a strage place, here in Alberta my 06 3500 dually cost less to insure than my 03 2500... go figure.

 

[TowPro]

I take you mean taller bump stops such that the overloads are engaged sooner... ? Which one did you use? Was it from Energy Suspesion?



Also- Can the 'constant' engagement of taller bump stops rub against the overloads (when loaded) to where it rubs the rubber constantly? (hence... wearing down however minimal over time. . ?) I have read where this may be a concern.



I almost would rather have a constant rate true 1 ton suspension (like the ole' days) rather than that of a progressive rate "2500 into 3500"...



I do not think this is true (but I could be wrong. )

Yes I used the energy suspension blocks. Mine do not rub the springs because when I am empty, its really empty (meaning no tools).



They did the trick for me (leveled truck with 1100lb+ toung weight). If they wear out they are only $35. 00 per side.

 

[LesStallings]

Where did you get the Energy Suspension blocks for the 3500?



Thanks!

 

[TowPro]

I got them Here I think it was part number ENE9-9109



Here is a TDR link that talks about it. Its a long discussion.

 

[LesStallings]

I hate websites that make it hard to search on a part number...



Oh well. I just spent 5 minutes on 4wheelparts and can't locate the beast.



Thanks anyway. I appreciate you help. I'll find it else where.

 

[ACooper]

They're the same axles -- same everything except for the rating plate and the insignia -- if they're single rear wheel except for the overload springs that come standard on the 3500. And you have to remove the overloads if you want to install air bags.

Not true... I ran Firestone airbags on my 3500 SRW with 6" lift a Arctic Fox 990 and had no problems... I am curious where you heard this? I have never heard this and guys are doing this everyday. Not trying to be rude one bit... just want to clarify the where you have heard this Thanks TAbbott

 

[ACooper]

DAVE SMITH sold me my 05' 3500 SRW for the same price as the 2500 this was a no brainer. I would always choose more truck than less when it comes to capacity and towing but not when it come to all the gadgets. ]





Just my . 02 cents

 

[opjohnny]

Unless your lucky number is 2500 you might as well step up to the 1 ton if the money is the same. I got the 3/4 and wish I had the 1 after putting it on the scale. I have two tag trailers and did not think I needed the extra capacity. Some bought 2500's because of a dislike for cab lights. Now you can order without cablights.





John