Much asked question/difference between 3/4 ton and 1 ton?

[ramyankee]

I searched the forum but found nothing. I may be asking the question the wrong way.
Several people have told me "just install air bags OR an extra leaf". But I have seen this question here a few times.
A few times I have said to people when talking about upgrading our 5er that "it is over what we can safely tow" and they just say the old add this or add that because a 3/4 and 1 ton are THE SAME TRUCK. I have forgotten how I have seen this question answered.

IF all I need is an added leaf then we will go out and buy that Open Range 3X386FLR that we saw in Reno over the weekend..... 😉

[ramyankee]

I am aware the GVWR's are different. The reason being a 2500/F250 vs a 3500/F350 .But structurally what is the difference? I really can't believe it is just the "springs/extra leaf". But also, my knowledge of the structure of the truck is LIMITED!
So then my truck MAY be able to carry the 5th wheel I noted.....2840# hitch and 12410 "dry weight". And a dually will give WAY more stability. My Grandson's friends are the ones that really brought up the question. They have a Dodge 2500 (2010) and they pull a 36' Montana. All they did was change the leafs and install air bags.....AND chipped the truck. oh boy!!!

So the frames may be more sturdy as well as the brakes, ETC.

[therink]

I can only speak on my truck in signature below. The one ton SRW gasser has about 800 additional legal payload, larger axle, brakes and driveshaft than the 2500 gasser. To me that is worth the additional grand $.

[Emptypockets]

The biggest difference is the added stability of the load carrying axle with four tires (dully) on the ground.

[Grit_dog]

The new Rams have several different rear suspension offerings that vary widely between model 2500 and 3500, however just like the other 2 mfgs, I believe the frame, axles, brakes and wheels (although different trim levels have diff rims) are the same and that's what matters from a practical standpoint as long as one is willing to upgrade the suspension accordingly.
The legality of it is still black and white for gvw s but there are practical work around a to make a 2500 haul the same as a 3500 safely.

[BenK]

GVWR's are different

[spud1957]

Speaking of the current model Ford F250/350, the physical difference is the F250 has 2" rear blocks between the axle and spring pack, where the F350 has 4" blocks. The F350 comes standard with a rear overload spring. On the F250, the overload spring is optional (camper package). The camper package does not change the GVWR or axle ratings. ALL other components are identical (brakes, axles etc.)

The f350 has a higher GVWR and axle ratings with the 18"+ tires.

It mostly addresses registration fees in some states if the GVWR is over 10k they pay a considerable higher fee.

[Gonzo42]

Strength of the third member is important to the rating, as is the frame.

[downtheroad]

My understanding that beside the leaf difference, the wheels and brakes are heavier duty/bigger also.
(but then again, I don't understand all that much...:))