We have a LTV on a '97 3500 Dodge as well.
All that steveh27 mentioned doing we have done as well as Michelin XPS Rib tires. Airbags on the rear really help as you can adjust the pressure for different circumstances (60psi normal. All these help.
We now have 208,000kms on the van and it is good in pretty well all conditions.
Just accept you are driving a heavy 1 Ton "truck", not a car. Drive it a bit until you feel comfortable with the size and weight, and then decide if it needs mods. It may be fine the way it is. Some older Dodges were troublesome, however many were fine the way they came from the supplier.
Good luck and happy travelling.
Barry