As Jim points out, we need to know the spec of a given rig to know if it truly will or will not meet ALL of the goals/specs we the end user may face. As I have pointed out many times. I use my trucks for both play and work. Play the spec I need is less than work. Spec meaning what I expect a given truck to do. I can tell, what Jim expects a truck to do, is probably less than what I expect in some instances. As such, I have been disapointed in the how some of my trucks work.
Until as noted, the specs that the manufactures follow or say they are following are handed out, many of us, will never know if the truck will or will not do as we expect.
I too do not like the LDT truck gvwr that is front plus rear = 1.75 to 1.98! To me, 1+1=2......as it does in my mdt. As such, many of us WILL use the sum of 2, as that is what the minimum that an leo will give us for a very high majority of the US states, and for the most part, all of canada, altho BC seems to have some quirks that they may follow the lower number. Then there are states like Washington where I am, the door placard means squat, and they go by the road max before you damage the roads/bridges. I could take a dually 35 series truck, and run down the road legally at around 30-32K lbs. Not that I will recommend this, but it would be legal from an LEO standpoint. Warranty wise, I'm screwed! I would also expect an LEO to get me off the road from some other law/spec that they make me follow. Like I need to stop said truck from 20 mph within 25 or 35'. I doubt that would happen, so I will be red tagged with a failed braking system. I will stop, but not with in the spec that state laws define!
At the end of the day, one needs to follow state and federal laws, along with know what the manufacture will warranty, and what makes you feel safe while operating your vehicle.
Happy New year to you all!
marty
