Grit dog wrote:
"The cost difference is minimal between similarly equipped 3/4-ton and 1-ton trucks. Look for a SRW 1-ton with the most payload you can get. All the calculations in the world can't justify scrimping on safety when it comes to your family and others on the road."
Except from a safety standpoint, a 3/4 and a 1 ton srw ARE the same trucks (yes, RAM has rear coils on the 2500 now and yes you could get a 3500 RAM with more power and a different trans).
BUT from a safety standpoint apples to apples, there is no additional "safety" to be gained in a 1 ton srw. Other than a 3/4 ton may need some supplemental rear suspension as the springs are typically softer. But even in that case, the "safety" aspect is lie with the owner to recognize a and possibly rectify an obvious and easily remedied condition.
Well NOT ALWAYS the SAME, there can be differences in tires, sizes and capacities, NOT always but it needs watching.
Now days manufactures are starting to make the difference between the two, engines with less HP and torque, less robust transmissions.
Back in the day, the differences were less, but still there.
Even when I was towing with the 2001 Ram 2500 well over GVWR, I would strongly encourage those that haven't bought their TV to get a minimum a 3500 SRW. The 5er you listed has a low weight, but even at that with kids and DW and STUFF you will likely exceed the 10,000# GVWR. No the truck will not fall apart, but it is the legal aspect of exceeding that magic number. Way too many Hungary lawyers out there now to gamble for me.
I took it one step further, we bought a 2016 Ram 3500 DRW, currently no issue with payload. The hips, well you get use to them and they become less of an issue.
Personally if I were you I would be looking for a 3500.
