2006-12-31 14:50:33 · 8 answers · asked by michele r 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ Dodge
Everything gets beefed up in the pickup. Everything from brakes to motors to suspension. There are even different classes inside the 3/4 ton and 1 ton classes. I've seen two identical looking pickups in the same class carry loads completely differently. The "ton" designation is how much the pickup can carry in the box.
Generally speaking half tons are good for driving around and hauling the occasional load of wood or building supplies, light stuff in general. The 3/4 tons are good for hauling heavier loads. They are ok for driving around, the ride is rougher due to the beefed up suspension, but they are mostly for working. These pickups pull light trailers well, like skid steers, cars, stuff like that. The 1 tons are the work horses. With my 1 ton I've hauled over 20,000 pounds. They have the stiffest suspension, the heaviest brakes the biggest differentials, the most cooling capacity, etc. These pickups are rough riding.
2006-12-31 16:41:46 · answer #1 · answered by likesoldiron 2 · 5⤊ 1⤋
Suspension is one, front and rear axle rates are another. The truck's frame also plays a roll in the vehicle weight rating. The larger the truck the stiffer and larger the frame. You can modify a 1/2 ton truck to a 3/4 ton but its not recommended because it will stress the frame and the axles, as they were designed for a specific weight.
2006-12-31 14:56:04 · answer #2 · answered by Bill S 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No it not just 'suspension', though that is a starting point. reinforced mounts, extra frame gussets, rear axle size, leaf spring(# of), brake material(size), larger engine(incl. diesel), extra capicity cooling system, larger charging system, Transmission cooler..........and on and on.
The more you NEED, the more it costs. Get what is going to be used.
I own two heavier duty vehicles, '93 GMC Suburban 2500 and a '84 Chevrolet Scottdale C-20. Both are rated at 3/4 ton units.
They share a thristy habit. At $2.85 per gallon with 12.6/6.8mpg & 14.6/8.2mpg, respectively, they are costly if not making money.
Then there is the maintainence cost and repair/replacement factors. Example: $480.00 for 4 core 19" radiator, $97 per rotor and $134 per drum, $108 for 80amp alternator, $457 for a 3.5" exhaust system from 'Y' pipe back, $570 for saddle tanks(excluding brakets, straps and labor), $168 per tire in 'E' load range. Then there's the insurance and tabs for the plates each year.
2006-12-31 16:04:54 · answer #3 · answered by LifeRyder 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They can have beefier frame, drive train, transmissions and suspension. There can also be a difference when it comes to selection of motors. The bigger trucks usually have larger displacements offered compared to a 1/2 ton truck.
2006-12-31 14:55:01 · answer #4 · answered by acidcrap 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is a complete package. The frame, brakes, axles, steering components, wheels, and tires are heavier as well as a heavier pickup will have a larger transmission cooler, oil cooler, and radiator. A heavier pickup will also be geared a little lower (numerically higher) so it can pull harder. No, it isn't JUST the suspension.
2006-12-31 14:59:49 · answer #5 · answered by boogie2510 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
That is the load rating that it should be able to handle. If you are careful you can usually go higher. Suspension, brakes and frame assembly are the primary difference.
2006-12-31 14:55:31 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Tires, rims, springs, frame, suspension, many items.
Like a chain, it is only as strong, as it's weakest link
2006-12-31 14:53:05 · answer #7 · answered by G. M. 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yeah its not how much the truck weighs but how much it tows ... and my duramax is the best by the way :)
2006-12-31 14:57:33 · answer #8 · answered by Kagen H 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋