What does a fiberglass cap weigh?

[DStinson]

I was considering a fiberglass cap until I realized the payload tag for my '06 2500 4WD QC LWB is "only" 1,943 lbs. That's not alot when you load fuel, my better 1/2, 3 dependents, their gear, and the trailer tongue weight (600 lbs?). Probably within specs but another 200 lbs or so won't help the cause.

 

[MFalkinham]

I would guess that most fiberglass caps weigh around 250-300#. An aluminum cap would be much lighter, but personally I don't care for how they look on the 3rd gen trucks.

 

[Mr.Goat]

I can see what your getting at. But you can get bogged down worrying over DC specs. My truck is an 03, 2500 reg cab, 6spd. This configuration has the heaviest payload for a 2500, again according to DC specs.

My slide in camper weighs 2450 Ibs. I can very easily get the weight up to 3000 Ibs. with gear. Last summer I toured all over Alaska/Yukon/BC for 9 weeks. The truck ran like a top. Except for an airconditioning sensor. The only deviation from stock is a set of Timbrens rubber snubbers on the back to control some side to side roll, as the camper stands 10' 6" on the truck.

I did a similar trip the year before also without incident. But I'am very fussy on always having good tires "E" class, and inflated to 80 psi an all corners. These are the stock tires that came on the truck anyways. Your inflation should be fine at about 55 psi.

So my advice is to buy a nice cap of your choosing. Load up your family and have nice time. Your truck is more than capable of the task.

Just my humble Canadian opinion/observation. Pete

 

[DieselFiend]

I agree with Mr. Goat. Dodge specs are defintely on the conservative side. I've got a cap that weighs 250+ and sometimes I load it down with a 9,000lb travel trailer, dogs in the back (combine weight 150lbs), 2 dependants, and gear. Sometimes a 600 lb four wheeler in the back. No problems at all.

 

[DStinson]

Thanks for the comments. The tires must be the weak link since the GAWR implies much more than 2,000 lbs. The Explorer rollover lawsuits probably made everyone conservative. Sounds like I'll go for the nice cap and try to leave the kitchen sink at home when I hookup the trailer.

 

[JayWm]

Thanks for the comments. The tires must be the weak link since the GAWR implies much more than 2,000 lbs. The Explorer rollover lawsuits probably made everyone conservative. Sounds like I'll go for the nice cap and try to leave the kitchen sink at home when I hookup the trailer.

It's got a Cummins, take the sink too

 

[BMH95]

Heck, take the laundry tub too!