Payload and Towing Capacity Only Part of the Issue

[rhagfo]

Originally Posted by cookinwitdiesel

The spec sheet difference between 2500HD CC Diesel and 3500HD CC Diesel SRW for the GMC is 1400#. The GMC 3500 HD SRW has a GVRW of 11600#. I am sure it will vary between brands. The point is, always get the 1 ton pickup haha - you won't regret it

I will start with this
We are currently looking at updating our TV, we currently tow a 2005 Keystone Copper Canyon 293FWSLS (GVW 12,500#) with a 2001 Ram 2500 CTD. Yep over the pathetic 8,800# GVWR, but tows great and handles well, and under axle and tire ratings.
So reason for updating is two, First, it is a 5 speed manual and while DW can drive a manual, she doesn't like the power of the CTD, so I am the sole tow driver. Second, is that while the unit tows very well being as far over GVWR as we are keeps eating at me.

So currently we are looking at a new or newer Ram CTD auto DRW.

Why DRW you ask? Well based on my research and that of others the difference between a 250/2500 and a 350/3500 other than the larger GVWR number on the VIN is minuscule. You can likely get the same springs and tires by simply adding a Camper or Max tow package to a 250/2500.

I feel if we were to get a new or newer 3500 SRW it would be a lateral move.

In addition I would be a hypocrite as I convinced our DD to get a used Ram 3500 DRW to tow her four horse GN trailer.

I do believe that anyone looking to step up from a 150/1500 to a 250/2500 should just go straight to the 350/3500 SRW, that way unless towing very heavy they will avoid the issue we currently have.