Hauling a heavy camper and towing
We are working on leaving the 5th wheel business and entering the truck camper side. We have hit the lower 48 and parts of Canada. We are looking to spend the next 10 years, more in the boonies, plu...
Forum Discussion
The frames and springs are different on chassis models no matter if it’s a F350 or F450. AFAIK, the axles and tires are the same.
One thing to keep in mind is that older model F450s had a higher GVWR. For instance, mine is 14500. That means my F450 has a higher payload capacity than any 350/3500 that is also 4x4 and CC. True that a F450 is heavier, so it would be slightly less if the GVWR is the same as a F350. Another thing to keep in mind is that some people’s insurance and registration is higher with a F350 vs F450. The ride is likely to be rougher as well especially unloaded since F450s run 19.5s in almost all years.
If you absolutely want to stay under GVWR, you will need a chassis. There are a few people who’ve had bodies made for them for extra storage and even adapted pickup beds. One of the issues is frame width is different on chassis trucks so it isn’t a simple bolt on.
One thing to keep in mind is that older model F450s had a higher GVWR. For instance, mine is 14500. That means my F450 has a higher payload capacity than any 350/3500 that is also 4x4 and CC. True that a F450 is heavier, so it would be slightly less if the GVWR is the same as a F350. Another thing to keep in mind is that some people’s insurance and registration is higher with a F350 vs F450. The ride is likely to be rougher as well especially unloaded since F450s run 19.5s in almost all years.
If you absolutely want to stay under GVWR, you will need a chassis. There are a few people who’ve had bodies made for them for extra storage and even adapted pickup beds. One of the issues is frame width is different on chassis trucks so it isn’t a simple bolt on.
