It is a never ending argument as to what is or is not too big of a camper for a given truck. Folks even get to the point of citing nonexistent laws. I usually do not respond to weight/TC caring capacity threads. There will be those that will argue with this post, but I will not argue it, I will simply post it and others can make of it what they will. If someone states a law on the subject, I will ask for a source.
Can a 2500 truck carry a 4000 pound camper comfortably and safely, is not at a simply question to answer. There are so many variables. I will comment on my personal 30 plus years experience on the subject. First, it should be noted each of us have different comfort levels with our trucks/TCs. We have different driving skills. As with most things in life, one size does not fit everyone..
In my opinion, the tires and maybe wheels are the weakest link, and most important. Due to expense the last change people make. Load capacity and especially sidewall flex can make for a very uncomfortable driving vehicle.
Several things can influence sway. Gusty side winds are the worst, probably followed by passing big rigs, and driving in hilly country which block and unblock side winds. In my opinion, Airbags do very little in helping with this. An anti-sway bar is the best solution. Shocks may help, but in my experience not much.
It is very common for a truck to squat 3" to 4" when a TC is loaded. The only problem with that is the headlights will go in the trees. Airbags correct that. I will also point out if your truck does not squat without airbags, your truck suspension will be very stiff with an empty truck. Your truck has to drop in the rear before the overloads will contact. That drop is typically 3" to 4". There are other uses for the airbags, but returning the truck to its normal height is their main benefit.
My experience also includes brakes. This does take a bit of study. Simply stated, do not have your brakes done at some "Brakes-r-Us" shop. It is not difficult to install a higher quality pads/shoes. Some brakes are better suited for our trucks with TCs.
I have hauled TCs on 1/2, 3/4, and 1 ton DRW. I would hesitate to make a blanket statement that the DRW is better. It can be, but if setup properly, for me the SRW does just fine, and offers advantages over the DRW. Actually, I am OK with either. My 2500 SRW truck and it's 4200 pound TC rides as well as my cars. It does not stop as fast, nor does it maneuver as well. I do not expect it to. I seldom remove my TC, traveled over 200,000 miles, from California to Nebraska up to Canada, across Canada and down the pacific coast. Also have gone to Yellowstone, and Moab. Most of this is flat towing my Samurai.
So what do I think about what you posted? I can't/will not say if you should or should not go with it. For me, I would/have hauled a 4,000 pound TC on my 2500 SRW truck. You have to go with your comfort level and driving skills. I think most SRW trucks with a 9.5 foot or larger TC have about 4000 pounds. A 4,000 pound TC is pushing the envelope even with a DRW truck. I suggest you weigh the TC before you buy.
My 1996 Dodge DSL SRW weight is 6200, and my TC is 4200. 10,400 pounds total. These weights are from a certified scale.
Wayne
