I read the trailer and hauling section, what weight describes the max weight I can put in the bed of my truck?

Is it dependant on motor strength alone or better shocks maybe?

What's max I can put in my bed and haul around? On 93 Dakota 3.9l 4wd club cab, manual transmission?

 

Only way to truly know is take the truck to a scale and measure the curb weight and subtract that weight from the GVWR on the door sticker.

That said around 1500lbs should be ok.

 

keep in mind though that the dakota is rated as a HALF ton truck, not a 3/4 ton. so half a ton is only 1000 pounds.

 

This would be true if it was made before 1960, more modern 1/2 tons are capable of more weight. The term "1/2 ton" has just stuck around. Best to see what the manufacturer recommends.

 

Ok so what needs to be upgraded to support more weight? Say to get it up to 1 ton status in bed?

 

You could do spring and brake upgrades that will help it carry the weight but you would still be illegal because you can only legally haul what the truck is plated for.

 

That is true so check with your local DOT and see what they say. I know in Florida, FDOT only checks for your cargo being properly tied down & secure, if you are using a trailer, all your electrical is functioning, the integrity of the trailer's frame, the tires, wheel bearings and brakes (electric).

On my truck I have Dodge Ram 2500 leaf springs, air shocks, and an aftermarket transmission cooler. On many occasions, I have towed 1,500lb. had about another 1,000 in the bed and my truck still kept on going. So depending on what you plan to haul, there are lots of options.

 

My roommate works where there's a lot of scrap metal always left over, so were picking it up to recycle for cash, just wanna make sure I don't break my truck haha

 

I'd get written permission you or he is allowed to take that scrap, you don't want to end up in the clink for theft.

 

His boss tells him he can have it