2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Anyone ever converted a 2500 to a dually?

[crudd]

Hello:



I am new to TDR and just bought a '97 2500 4x4. I would like to convert it to a dually and install a flatbed on the rear. Anyone know what it would take to do this? Is there a difference between 2500 and 3500 front and rear suspension?



One more question, what is the largest tire you would want to run on a 2500? If I don't do a dually conversion, I at least need new tires...



Thanks for the help in advance.

 

[98rammer]

http://www.chromewheel.com/adaptors.htm



i'd personally recommend finding a dana 80 dually axle from a junk yard or off someone as you have to use adaptors with the above kit.



Tom

 

[Billybob1]

I have...

Been trying to get time to do it. I have the new differential and the box, now I just have to find the time...

 

[GFrance]

converting 2500 to dually

Hey crudd

read your post and the only person that comes to mind is Haulin in Dixie. You can find him over on the www.dieseltruckresource.com site. Look under towing & hauling you will find his profile there. He has a 2500 converted to a dually with a flat bed.

 

[Shovelhead]

Check out www.arrowcraft.com

 

[Joe G.]

If your truck is 80" wide or more, which it will be if you convert to duals, you will need the 3500 clearance lights. The stock 2500 is 79" wide.

 

[crudd]

Would it be possible to put a set of dually hubs and rotors on the front? I know you can do this in the older trucks, but I am not sure about the '97.



What rear axle is likely in the truck now? Would it be a Dana 70?



Regarding the clearnance lights, is that a DOT regulation to have lights at 80"?? If so, I had not thought about that, but it isn't a bid deal.



Anyone looking for a 2500 long bed off a '97? It is in good condition...

 

[Billybob1]

Dually

crudd,



The adapters for the front bolt on and the axle would be a Dana 80. The lights are DOT required and if you find a box off of a dually like I did, they will be there. I was also lucky enough to come across a very low mileage Dana 80 dual axle... Like I said before all I need now is the time to do it.



Would you like to buy a box off of a '98 2500 in the near future??

 

[ProMac1K]

I've thought of doing it the other way with my truck, dually to SRW. I'm looking for a tailgate for a 3500, but a 2500 maybe would work. Would that work?

Thanks

 

[Joe G.]

Gotta have the lights on top of the cab too. They were optional on the 2500 but most people didn't order them.

 

[crudd]

Thanks for all the help, however I still have a couple questions...



What is the difference between a Dana 80 single rear wheel and a Dana 80 dually rear axle?



Also, anyone know of a source (or have some for sale) for dually front adapters that are used. The new ones are kind of steep.



Thanks again for all the help!

 

[Extreme1]

Front wheel adapters should be able to be found used for a better price. It's been reported on here that there are some differences between the 2500 and 3500 front hubs and such but I don't know the specifics. The adapters center the load on the wheel bearings and it should be fine.



On the rear axle, if your truck has an auto, you have a Dana 70 and you might have to mess with the drive shaft length and/or u-joint size. If you have a stick, the 80 should bolt in. The difference is that the dually diff has different brake drums, backing plates, etc. to fit inside the inner wheel.



Some folks on here have used the dual wheel kits but I think the factory set up is the way to go. You'll need some wheels then though.

 

[GTX]

Crudd,

I sent you a PM.

 

[DSiemens]

If your 97 is a manual it should be a Dana 80. I believe all Autos in 2500 are dana 70's.

 

[Ncostello]

Not trying to change your mind... but if I ever go with a flat bed I'll get 19. 5" Rickson wheels and some load range G heavy duty commercial tires. Do any job and keeps it narrow.