Help deciding camper

I agree with the sentiments alluded to by Artum regarding weight on axle (not that is is the concern) but moreover the tires. There is not much choice in high Load Index (LI) tires for a 17' wheel.

I stepped up to Nitto tires in a 285 to gain extra wight carrying capacity but there is no definite documentation on capacities of factory wheels... one can safely assume that truck manufacturer lawyers will make sure that the wheels are at least capable of the limits of the tires that are installed around them.

Camper weights add up quickly without realizing it and I can say with almost certainty that tires and wheels on an '06 Dodge will be the weakest link.

With my setup (sig below) I am under my axle weight, over gross, under tire LI but over KNOWN wheel capacity on steel wheels by #75.

Realizing our opinions are jsut that, opinions.....
1. Your truck will easily handle a camper up to 4000lbs or so with the few mods you have.
2. I’d be looking at 8-9’ long campers. You don’t need a huge amount of room and with a long bed you’ll have hardly any overhang and decent weight distribution. IE you may actually get some of the weight on the front axle.
3. Brand and budget? I’ve only had 2 AF campers. Both have been pretty trouble free and I’d expect good service out of a well cared for model like you’re suggesting.
That said, I believe most brands would be the same l, as in reliability based on how they were maintained.

I carry a Lance 820 on a crew cab, short bed F250.

Wet weight will be much higher than the dry weight. Mine is at 3200 lbs loaded.

Truck's over GVWR, but well under rear tire ratings.

With stableloads and an extra leaf spring, you will be just fine. I'm sure a dually would be nicer, but you always take a bath when trading trucks into the dealer.

That's how dealers make money.

To add to my PM, for full timing, I'd want to set up a good charging lead off the truck, add some solar charging, 6V batteries and favor a Honda over a noisy built in propane sucking Onan generator.
Oh and a 6cf fridge not the small ones.

And when I was shopping, I only considered ones that showed reasonable proof of being stored under roof or a least under cover.