I have mentioned before, anyone who farms or works construction knows that 1/2, 3/4 and 1 ton are just suggestions. :)
It is simple, the heavier you load it, the more effect it has on braking, accelerating, stability and overall wear and tear.
If your TV is grossly overloaded you will know it immediately. They are not much fun to drive.
Operating near its design limits has the greatest effect on longevity. Basically you wear it out quicker.
For those who worry about handling, one only has to look at the mods done to prize winning "custom street rods" to realize that street legal has a lot of latitude.
