I know you don't want a DRW, so you should start looking at smaller (lighter) TCs even for a 3500 DRW.
We had a SRW 3500 that would have been over 1000lbs too heavy with the AF990 that we were considering. Tires were the factor. Add $3200 for 19.5s and then other suspension upgrades, it would have been close to $7K!
We ended up getting a DRW and are very happy. You don't buy a TC with MPGs in mind. You buy a DRW for peace of mind.
Look up past posts on the issue of suspension and tires. There's a wealth of knowledge on the subject. Many people buy the SRW and end up modifying it and are still not happy. Learn from their mistakes.
Possibly, a TC is not the right fit for you, since you know that you want a 5er. BTW, you mentioned a "small" 11000 lb 5er, I don't consider that small. You need a larger truck, bottom line.
I agree with the previous post. Don't just rely on the closest dealer for your research. TC dealers are few and far between and most with tell you the wrong info...:just add airbags. NOT TRUE! They just want to sell the unit. Call the companies, ask tons of questions and go in educated.
Got the bamboo ready!:W