TC Newbie with ?'s

For my model year, the Ram 2500 and 3500 only had a few differences. One was the rear springs. I solved that with airbags and then adding a superspring to the rear. ~snip~

Very true... before DC (or whatever they call themselves now) used to make a decent 2500 series truck. Now with the rear coils (did'nt they learn from GMC/ Chevy in the early 70's with rear coils??) ..now the new 2500's are glorified "grocery getters" with a higher RAWR that can't haul a camper. At least if the OP's truck had leafs then there might be hope.

~snip~ The 2500 had 17 inch wheels. There are currently no tires available with more than 3200 pound load capacity. ~snip~

Biggest weakpoint of the 3G Dodge's are the 17's. But Nitto (and perhaps Toyo) do make a higher weight rating tire. There are a few Load Index= 126 with weight capacity of 3746# per tire, but I have found no credible evidence of stock wheel capacity rating.

@OP, the new coil-consumer-comfy 2500 trucks might be OK for moderate hauling and towing, there are limitations for in-bed hauling, a la TC. The coils rears are a limiting factor... but you will have a decent unladed ride for getting tomatoes from the local market. The 3500's (or any other model with leafs) do ride rougher (uhm, like a truck) without a load... but it is a truck designed to haul loads... and 3500 leafers with a TC in the bed can ride very comfortably.

You might need to look for a minimalist, lightweight camper to fit within your trucks limitations.

I know that the 2500 coilers have come a long way, but some of the old tymers here might remember member Don Curley (RIP) who put a Hallmark (Outfitter?) on his 2500 with coils. Albeit, his was a Power Wagon, but if you remember the poor handling on that setup that he really forced the dealer to take the truck back because he expressly told them he wanted a truck for a pop-up camper. He eventually set up a real nice 3500 SB to haul it around.

Bottom line: if you want to haul a camper, get a 3500 (or a 2500 leafer that has potential.) If you want a comfortable riding car that looks like a pick-up truck then get a 2500 or a 150.

Not trying to be harsh, just pointing out facts without beating around the bush. DYODD