Can I swap parts to get a higher GVWR
#11
First of all I highly doubt any law enforcement will pull over a truck hauling a camper just to check the weight, recreational vehicles are exempt from DOT weigh in. However in the highly unlikely circumstance that you do get weighed by the DOT they go by your axle ratings not the GVWR so as long as you don't excede those rating you are still legal.
Actually, Motor Carrier Enforcement officers vary from state to state but they can inspect private vehicles. The main concern is the declared weight on your unit. Heavier rigs pay more in road taxes. If you have a declared weight of 10,000 pounds, and weigh 11,500, you'll get an over weight ticket. The fines for over gross can really add up. Indiana has raised the basic pickup weight from 7000 to 10,000 pounds. At one time, there was a 4000 pound plate but everybody ran them and would gross out at twice that.
The key here is to make sure the rig is stable. You can then raise your declared weight the next time you renew your plates.
#12
The frame on my '01 Ram 2500 was substantially heavier than most pickup frames I've seen. More like a light cab and chassis used for box trucks. It's definitely heavier than a co-workers 2500 Cummins, however, his is a 2003 so the difference in years may make a difference.
Last edited by ol' grouch; 10-16-2019 at 08:23 AM. Reason: i kant spel wurth a durn.
#13
First of all I highly doubt any law enforcement will pull over a truck hauling a camper just to check the weight, recreational vehicles are exempt from DOT weigh in. However in the highly unlikely circumstance that you do get weighed by the DOT they go by your axle ratings not the GVWR so as long as you don't excede those rating you are still legal.
to the op...dual rear wheels are a nice option when carrying a heavy slide in. a tire blow out on a single rear wheel truck is trouble.
Last edited by primem; 10-16-2019 at 09:34 AM.
#14
#15
The frame on my '01 Ram 2500 was substantially heavier than most pickup frames I've seen. More like a light cab and chassis used for box trucks. It's definitely heavier than a co-workers 2500 Cummins, however, his is a 2003 so the difference in years may make a difference.
#16
In this case my goals are being more offroad worthy and dual wheel axles kind of goes against that grain. I'm actually looking at downsizing the camper. I've been kicking around the idea of one of these offload friendly popups for a couple years , like maybe an Alaskan or something along those lines.
#17
I wonder if upgrading brakes would buy me anything. You know? Not with Johnny law but with the hypothetical insurance/court battle.
#20
Getting a 99-01 Dana 60 will get you the bigger dual piston calipers. You can also upgrade to the 3rd or 4th gen brakes. Will be a direct bolt it except the from u joint on the driveshaft. I seen the biggest difference switching to hydroboost