This question came up in a conversation with some of the guys I work with. We generally all agree that for our normal needs, we don't need a 3/4 ton truck (we all drive 1/2 tons and have been known to go beyond their specifications a time of three.) What we are wondering is does anyone still make the good old fashioned "Heavy Half?" A half ton with a 3/4 ton suspension.

From what I have been seeing...no one does...but Dodge is the closest

 

GM does

 

I think GM discontinued them as they are no longer list a 1500HD on their website for the 2009 model year.

 

Ohh I was kinda wrong....Hmmmmm

They make a 1/2 ton with 3/4 towing capabilities...not the other way around...they call it the vortec max.

 

The new tundra is listed with a payload of 2000lbs. And the f150 claims to have a payload of 3180lbs. What's up with that?

 

Tundra has a weak frame. The F150 is built like a SuperDuty and can tow over 11,000lbs.

 

as long as its downhill...jk

 

The Megacab is a 1500 built on a 2500 frame.

 

Yeah mega is Dodge's heavy half

 

the upgraded brakes on the three quarter ton pickups are the most important modification,
particularly fade resistance.

it is a really bad day when an overloaded 1500 series can't stop in time

On Dodge pickups the automatic transmissions need internal upgrades for loads and towing in the 3/4 ton category. The long sad history of not really durable auto transmissions have lead to year by year band-aid mods to the 47 series, and has eventually led to the 48RE with its many changes. no one at Chrysler thinks the 45RFE is really equal to a 48RE, and Dodge certainly has relied on 'torque management software' to give the 45RFE a break (and lower Chrysler warranty claim cost) because the 45RFE and especially its torque converter are questionable for heavy use for sustained periods