i have tried too avoid posting on this thread, but decided I should. I do not think the sky is falling. I have to give the following disclaimer, I am not frugal, but I am cheap. I prefer not to argue with people whose only experience is from a couch. However someones rig is setup, it should be in their comfort level and hopefully within their driving skills. I have recently bought a 2004 Ram 4x4 DRW, not because I am dissatisfied with my SRW, but for its creature comforts. I do have higher expectations from the DRW.
I have had my 1996 2WD (6200 lbs), SRW Ram 2500 since 2001, and my 4200 pound (loaded) Bigfoot (11.5 ft) TC since 2004. The 4x4 version of my truck is typically 7000 lbs. I have over 170,000 milers with the TC on my truck. I have made many modifications to my truck over the years, and can state the 19.5 wheels and tires made the most obvious difference. Although I am not a member of the weight police, I am a tire member of the tire capacity police. I had several different tires and one set of different wheels. I was, and am, comfortable with the 1996 Ram. Simply stated, I upgraded the 1996 2500 with a Helwig anti-sway bar, airbags, and the 19.5's. It is my belief, no less than these upgrades is necessary. I do believe that it is very important to pay attention to road conditions as it pertains to braking. I have never had a close call, but I am definitely watchful.
I am reluctant to add the weight a Super Hitch allows. The math for a 48-inch extension takes me beyond my comfort level. I do flat tow a 2900 lb Samurai. It has no tongue weight, but does add to breaking requirements. During the past few months, I have added a brake system to the Samurai, not because I was not comfortable with my trucks braking but because every little bit helps.
Simply stated, I have no problem with your rig with the upgrades I have made. I am a bit uncomfortable with adding the super hitch extension. I really do not think the OEM hitch is up to the job. As I understand, to install a Super Hitch with the typical 24 to 48 inch extension will cost about $2500. Someone with experience can provide exact numbers. Then the question is can the truck handle the extra weight. I think it could, but I would want input from someone that has run that setup.
I am open for discussion on anything I have posted here.
Wayne
