Around town 3500 v. 2500?

[Archive]

I too was a bit worried about ripping the fenders off my 3500, especially since I haven't driven a truck in 6 years. With right around 700 miles, I love it. The GPD (option code) trailer tow mirrors allow you to see everything to save the fenders. With the performance of the eth-dee combo, you'll scare the bejeeses out of anyone that pulls out in front of that big mirror filling dually.

Al

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01~3500QC,4X,Sport-Silver,eth~dee,3. 54,Line-X

 

[Archive]

I love the way my duallie handles with a trailer over a 2500. I know some say there's no difference ,but I've noticed alot less sway with my 3500. If you have a problem fitting a 3500 around town maybe you shouldn't pull a trailer either. Trailers are alot more to maneuver around than dually fenders. Get what you like to look at or you'll never be happy!!! Both are excellent trucks.

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99 3500 BLACK LOADED
Banks Stinger Plus
CR 500-KX 500
NEVER UNDERPOWERED

 

[Archive]

I love my dually. You do need to watch the fenders until you get used to it. Parking is not a big deal to me, because I usually park out in the back 40 anyhow. I especially like it when it's raining and someone tries to tailgate you. Those extra tires really throw the water back. They usually get off your a**. The only drawback is pulling my boat out of the water on a wet ramp. The rear wheels will just spin. You'll need some weight back there.

Steve
Y2K 3500 2X4 Auto

 

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jpzeroday,
My 3500 is my daily driver. I don't think anyone has mentioned it yet but if the mirrors fit so will the fenders. If you get the big camper you will always wish you had the dually if you try to save a buck now , you will spend a lot more later compensating for what you already know you need.
It's really not bad getting used to watching out for the fenders , let's face it some parking spaces are too small even for the skinny beds. The only draw back IMHO is that the veiw directly behind the truck is not the best , but I don't have the flip up mirrors ( just cant live with out power adjust & defrost ). It is difficult to see you trailer tires when backing up.

P. S. nothing oozes more testosterone than a 3500 RAM sporting a throbbing Cummins #ad
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99,QC,3500,Sport Black,4x4,Auto,3. 54,Anti-spin,Camper pkg,Carpet delete,all options except leather.
Silencer ring?? We don't need no stinking silencer ring!!!
Self installed goodies,
OEM Running boards,Mud flaps&Bed liner, Tinted windows,Jacobs E-Brake,BD Torque Loc. Whimpy stock class 4?? hitch fell off-replaced it with a Super Hitch(1200# tongue,15000# trailer) on the house from DC thanks for the recall!!

 

[Archive]

I also love my DRW 3500. I had a 2500 before and was also concerned about the extra width. No problem so far as long as I am alert and pick my parking spots carefully. The ride is fairly smooth for this size vehicle and the compliments on the truck never end.

Scott W.

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White 2001. 5 3500 ETH/DEE 4X4 Quad cab SLT,tow package and camper prep,Husky liners front and rear,DiPricol pyro and boost gauges and a M. I. A. blow by bottle !!!

 

[Archive]

The fenders stick out maybe an inch further than the stock mirrors.

When I get that fat feeling I just note that I'm not any wider than all the bob tails and semis using those lanes.

Parking is OK. I just put one wheel on one line and one wheel on the other one!

I got honked at by a lady driving a Suburban in a Walmart parking lot. She thought I was taking up too much room. LOL

BTW I opted for the 3500 just for safety reasons. Bigger brakes and an extra tire if one blows.

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John S. '99 QC 1T 4. 11 A/T Leather Driftwood, 50 Gal aux tank/tool box, gearvendors, BD brake/autolok, BD ISB comp, guages, BD Pressure Lock and Pract. Sol. Boost Elbow.

Just a Little BOMBed and liking it a lot.

 

[Archive]

I have a 2500 with 35x12. 50x16. 5 on 16. 5x9. 75 wheels. That makes me 3" wider on each side, Warn fenderflares cover it up. This is a good compromise. Looks tough yet I can park alittle easier.

 

[Archive]

JP,

I've had both. I really liked my 96 2500, but I wanted a little more capacity and stability. The only reason I did not buy a 3500 in the first place was becuase of the perceived incovenience of driving in town and in tight places. Parking spots, drive thru's, narrow gates, etc. were a big worry.

I finally traded for a 3500 that was exactly like my 2500, except for the 3. 54 RA. My opinion after owning 3500 is that the 3500 and extra width from the duallies is not a big hassle at all. I was really surprised at how quickly I adjusted to the difference. I don't even notice it now.

The extra stability of the dual rear wheels really makes a big difference when towing. The only place I don't take it is parking garages. No big deal. I highly recommend the 3500. I don't think I will ever go back. Just my . 02 worth.

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99 3500 QC 4X4 5sp 3. 54 K&N air filter, DiPricol gauges, 275 hp injectors, Pacbrake, Westin nerfs, GN hitch, Tekonsha Brake controller, Mopar seat covers, Husky mats, silencer ring removed, Draw-tite front receiver, Rancho 9000's

 

[Archive]

The 2500 would be much better in snow than a 3500. That extra wheel just causes more drag.

 

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jpzeroday:

Keep in mind that this is hardly a "scientific poll," good-buddy (best country drawl... ).

Anyone who's responding is likely a big-time dually fanatic; in particular, I love all the comments like "anybody who has trouble parking one a these babies probably shouldn't be trusted with a set a keys to a real-man's truck (snapping suspenders!)... Laughing my asssssssss offfff here!!!! #ad
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Hey, let's be real; you're a genius UNTIL you rip off that fender; then you don't feel so smug and, folks, it can and DOES happen to lots of good drivers! #ad


Anyone who tells you that driving/parking one of these in crowded A&P parking lots (for instance) is not a problem ("piece o' cake") is being less than honest, IMO. I loved my dually, but you DO pay a premium in convenience when you're driving in town, have to park quickly, have to run a short errand, whatever... I spent a lot of time circling the block while my wife ran into stores... Valet parking? Fuggedaboutit!

These are awesome, (yea and verily!!) even FANTASTIC trucks. Parked on a farm/ranch, used to haul horse trailers, carry campers on the interstates --- you can't beat 'em. But, let's be honest here... For use as a "daily driver" on narrow city streets -- there is no question, whatever, that the 2500 is a better choice for all-around convenience.

Okay, lock'n'load. Fire at will! #ad
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97 2500 4x4, club cab, auto, 3. 54 limited slip, JRE 4" exhaust, Dr. Performance Fuel system (370 HP), "Twister Turbo," Geno's guages -- Boost, EGT, transmission & Rear -- MAG Hytec covers, SunCoast Converter/Transgo shift kit, Brite Box, tons o'chrome under hood, Prime Loc, EZ Drain, Seat covers, wood dash, Rancho Suspension, Warn M12000 Winch on Warn Brush Guard, Warn driving and fog lights, Hella twin back up lights, 285/75/R16 B. F. G. ATs on Mickey Thompson "Classic" rims; Linex bed liner, BD exhaust brake, Optima, "Red-top" batteries. Northwest Custom mudflaps, front/rear, and stainless rocker panels.

[This message has been edited by Sasquatch (edited 11-04-2000). ]

 

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I agree Sas! I too noticed that those who say it's "no problem at all" DO in fact live out in the sticks! TX, AK, etc... those of us who live urban have a whole other set of problems to deal with!

 

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I can't believe Rob Hanson hasn't posted on this thread yet (He's the biggest dually proponent there is). Anyway, as I didn't need the training wheels, I ordered the LWB QC 2500 4x4 Sport. Irrespective, both can be a pain to drive in town as a daily driver. . by shear length. I'm the kind who ALWAYS parks in the back forty. . in an end spot (can't let that Black Ram get dinged), so I don't even try to negotiate in between the tightly packed Hondas. Since I purchased this Ram, I no longer use drive-up windows... I've found it easier to do it the old fashioned way (i. e. , get off my butt and walk inside). If I were to do it all over again, I'd go with the 3500 4x4. I was going to order a '98. 5 QC 3500 4x4 instead of my '98. 5 Sport HOWEVER, CC (then) wouldn't let me order the two-tone combination I wanted. I had my heart set on the Waterfall, two-tone paint scheme with Black on the lower half, Deep Amethyst on the upper half. I was already to place my order when they said I had to use an approved color combination. #ad
I was so pissed... I regrouped and ordered my 2500 Black Sport a month later. THE ONLY THING I wish were different now would be the transmission... I wish I had the 5-speed or the 6-speed (at least most of the time). However, I'm still very happy with what I have.

Which reminds me... . it's been darn near a year since MikeR bought a new truck..... you should be just about ready to trade it in on another one, right Mike? #ad
Evan too for that matter. #ad


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'98. 5 2500 QC 4x4 Sport, Glasstite Vision II, 285 BFG A/Ts on M/T Challengers, Warn 4X Boards, Mopar fender flares & tow hooks, NW Custom s/s-rubber mud flaps, Mag-Hytec diff. cover & trans. pan, Edelbrock IAS shocks, Reese Titan V hitch, VDO Vision gauges, Dynamat, '00 Sport grille & valve cover, '00 Sport headlights/PIAA Super White bulbs, PIAA Dual Sport 900 aux. lights, BD exh. brake and TorqLoc, Prime-Loc, Amsoil Dual Remote Bypass, Optima Yellow Tops, Bosch 275s, VA CPC, (censored), Aeroquip braided s/s fuel lines, Banks 14 cm2 turbine housing/Big Head wastegate actuator, ATS 3-piece exh. man. , Banks 4" dia. s/s exh. sys. , BD V10/Cummins hybrid TC & valve body, BD trans. front pump & PressureLoc, Air Bulldog induction hood (with NACA ducts), plus MANY other trick modifications

 

[Archive]

I have the DRW 3500, and drive it as my daily vehicle. it was a little intimidating at first, drive in windows, banks, toll boths, (the exact change cars only ones), but you get used to it. remember, if your mirrors fit, you fit! good luck

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1999 3500 quad cab, auto aero fendor trim and running boards,
bugflector II, K&N filter, Geno's monster tip

 

[Archive]

Never owned or drove a dually before this one, I bought it because I got a better deal on it than the 2500's on the lot, and was too impatient to wait on ordering a 2500 in the paint & options I wanted. (the dealerships must pick the stupidest employee to order their lot stock! )
It's my daily driver, and is a bit extreme for such, but the pros outweigh the cons by far... I don't appreciate the parking problems, but it doesn't deter from my enjoyment of the truck. NO REGRETS ! I love this truck ! And I'll still love it even when I have to buy SIX tires instead of four... I'll still love it if I accidentally rip off a fender or back over an Aztek, and I'll still love it when I have to park a mile away in the rain...
I must be crazy...

 

[Archive]

Briar:

You're not crazy at all. You just live in Winchester, KY. , instead of Atlanta, GA. #ad


If I lived in Winchester, KY, I'd have a dually, for sure!

Also, as the newness of the truck ownership experience starts to wane, (say, after 50,000 or so... ) I'm betting you become a little bit less of an unequivocal, rabid, dually enthusiast. That's just a guess, mind you.

Again, the dually is the coolest truck going. Nothing looks better, that's for sure. But in an "urban" driving environment, they are way tougher to park. Also, like I said earlier, there is going to be a time when you've got to park someplace in a hurry (emergency, or whatever... ) that's when the joys of the driving experience are affected, somewhat. These sorts of things tend to happen, more often, if you living the "urban dream!" #ad
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I think if it were just the added maintenance expense, the extra money for fuel and insurance -- little stuff like that -- I'd still be driving a dually. Maybe when I get out of this "road-rage-infested," rat-hole and move to Ashville... SOON!!

Our editor had a dually for years. He sold it and bought a 2500 short box; maybe it's just Atlanta!! #ad
#ad

 

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I moved form Atlanta 2 years ago, after living there for 14 years. A duelly would not be fun in Atlanta. Now I live in Springfield Missouri and now I want one. Your points are well taken. Living in an area with slower traffic and few people is a plus for daily driving. Good luck on your move. I don't miss Hotlanta #ad

 

[Archive]

I own both a 2500 and a 3500. I am now hauling the same load with the 3500 that I had on the 2500. There is a differnce!!!!!!!the 3500 is MUCH more stable with my 9. 5' Alpenlite camper on it. I also tow a Hilsboro 8x16' cargo trailer behind. (average combined wt. 19,000#) The differnce is profound. ie less camper sway, less semi induced trailer sway, smoother ride. My 3/4 ton has airride bags, extra heavy sway bars and shocks. I havent noticed any differnce in town although I never take the camper off. You will get used to it. If you tow heavy you will love it.

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1995 2500 5 spd bombed. 2001 ETH 3500 stock. 1972 1066 International Harvester 414 ci diesel pulling tractor.
GONZO

 

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I went from an ’85 Dodge D-150 4x2 to this massive 3500 4x4 QC Cummins, and for about the first week I was intimidated, but now its no big deal—just stay out of alleys if you can. My wife is 5’ 2” and she loads the kids in it and loves driving it around. I have to agree with the above posts about the “cool factor’ to me it is worth the little extra money. Also I can’t get over how stable the truck is while towing my enclosed trailer, I swear a child could drive it. Go Dually!!!

Semi


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Y2K 3500 4x4 SLT+ Leather Auto 4. 10 Black
'64 Plymouth 426 III
'79 Chrysler 300 T-Tops

 

[Archive]

I haven't owned or driven a dually so it's hard for me to compare. I bought my 2500 as a daily driver in the DC area, and let me tell y'all, there's days it tough getting that bad bay in them cramped little parking areas. I've parked so tight, I can't believe I got my fat a** through the door.

I pull a 15K Travel Supreme and it pulls great. I think the rear air suspension is why. So, the 2500 was the best bet for me for my overall driving needs.

PS If I lived back in Texas, I'd probably go fer the 3500.

Woof!

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2000 4X4 SLT QC 8' bed; 6 spd, 3. 54 ; BD exhaust brake and 4" exhaust syst; TST PM2; Airlift Super Duty rear air bags; RS 9000 shocks; pyro/boost gauges in 2 gauge a-pillar mount; back preasure gauge mounted under dash; KN air filter; Brown's Welding brush/grill guard, rear bumper & headache rack; nerf bars and aluminum roll top rear cover