I've had a few 2500 cummins in the past, currently have a LB7 2004 Duramax. I have a Bigfoot camper that is technically not overweight for my current truck but it doesn't feel great. Bigfoot is a "1500 series" and weighs 2300 lbs with propane and water (according to the tag). Not super heavy but my old SRW truck certainly feels it. I can't imagine putting it on a 1500 truck.
I'm ready to upgrade to a newer truck and want a dually for peace of mind and extra capacity so I can have the water full when needed and lots of gear. I'd like a flat bed with tool boxes on the sides and will maybe want to carry a dirt bike on a receiver rack.
I'm looking at 4500s or maybe 5500s. 4x4 4 door shortest wheelbase in that configuration. Probably automatic so my wife can drive it without complaining or irritating me with her shifting technique.
Is this crazy? Is that just total overkill? I understand that they might have a speed limiter which I'd have to bump up to something like 90mph at least in order to be safe passing. I also understand that this speed limiter is based on tire speed ratings somewhat, so I might have to get new tires.
Are there other considerations I'm not thinking of? What about the aftermarket world? Are 4500/5500 supported much there? It seems like some 4500s are even cheaper than the 3500s. I don't need a bunch of fancy options and will be looking for a Tradesman trim level.
EDIT: I should also mention that I'm an arborist and I run a small tree service on the side of my 40hr/week job. This truck will also serve double duty as an occasional tow rig (8500lb chipper), heavy hauler and/or maybe down the line I'd put a dump bed on it and a removable chip box.
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