Weights and capacities - Sierra 2500HD D/A

KD4UPL wrote:
I'd load it up to the GCWR or over. I run trucks over all the time with no problems. GVWR I would also run right up to the rating and over. I ignore GVWR and look at axle and tire ratings. That's how it was done when I was a commercial truck driver. If it works for the trucking industry it will work with an RV.
Going by your rear axle rating you could carry about 3,000 pounds of pin weight. However, the 11.5" AAM axle in your truck is rated by AAM at just over 10,000 pounds. If you add 19.5" wheels and tires and either upgrade the springs or add airbags you could carry much more weight in the rear.
If you're going to spend the money on wheel, tires, springs, air bags, etc. You would probably be better off just trading the truck for a dually.
In my own '05 Chevy dually I normally tow up to 16,000 pounds the rear receiver (aftermarket) while the truck may weigh up to 10,000. This is for work pulling equipment trailers and hauling tools. When I use this truck for RVing I put my TC on the back. The truck with family and camper and pulling my boat weighs about 13,500. The GVWR is 11,400 but I'm not over the tire or axle ratings. I have driven many thousands of miles safely this way.
There are, however, a lot of people who will swear I'm going to kill someone. What they don't realize is that many many "hotshot" type truck drivers haul this way legally with dually pick-ups all day long and go thru scales, DOT checks, etc.

Theoretically you are correct, However by your own admission you are what is called a Cowboy amongst real Truck Drivers..

The Vehicle Manufacturer is the one in collaboration with USDOT to decide on weight and carrying capacity. GVWR is governed to keep a vehicle from becoming a lethal weapon and driven within the safety standards for the vehicle in question. A Commercial Vehicle requires all CV restrictions and Requirements. Whereas a Pick up truck doesn't fall into the same catogary, A hotshot doesn't have to abide by Commercial requirements other than having a DOT physical and keeping a log book while abiding by CDL Hours.

In your private Not For Hire vehicle by exceeding GVWR or Tongue Weight and Axle limits you are driving dangerously and if caught will be heavily fined, loose your license and go to jail. There are 50 States and DC to contend with and although you have to abide by your own State other States can and will enforce certain safety regulations for their State. Many States are now requiring Motor homes, TT, 5th wheels etc to stop at scales and CDL inspection stations. I came across this recently in Iowa and Indiana and have heard it is to be adopted in California and Florida with a few States in between.
As to putting people in danger, You know the Answer to that and no one but you can or will change your point of view except you.........

Keep the shiny side up..