I know (at least I think I know) 3500's are 1 ton truck right? If that's the case, then is a 5500 a two ton truck? Also, am I correct or wrong in thinking a 3500 and 5500 have the same cab? Are there any differences other than the suspension system? Sorry if this has been beaten to death I'm just trying to get my ducks in a row if needed. Thanks for any help or input!

H

 

3500 is a 1-ton. I'm not sure what the 5500 would be called, but it's totally arbitrary anyway. The 3500 "1-ton" name doesn't really mean anything. Payload? Definitely not 2000 pounds - it's quite a bit higher than that. My 2500 is a 3/4 ton, but has a payload of about 1800 pounds. My 86 W250 had a payload of over 3500 pounds, but was still a 3/4 ton.

The 5500 iirc has beefier axles, frame, brakes, wheels/tires, and perhaps a few other things. I believe the cabs are the same though.

 

Thanks Horatio!

 

3500 has a GVWR of around 12,500 -13,000 LBS with a payload of around 4500lbs. 5500 has a GVWR of about 19,000 lbs and a payload of around 7-9000 lbs.

3500 can be a regular pickup or a cab & chassis. Regular P/U 3500 is about the same as a 2500, as far as HP/Torque, trans, axles, etc..

Cab & chassis 3500, 4500, 5500, have a longer frame, straight, flat frame rails beyond the cab, different trans(auto), and they now use urea injection, the hp and torque is also lower, 325/610 (i think). Oh, and the 3500 cab & chassis can also get the Hemi. Can't get it on any of the p/u 3500's or the 4500 or 5500.

4500 and 5500 have beefier axles, 19.5" wheels, higher minimum axle gearing(4.44 min).

That's most of what I can remember. The cabs are the same as far as I could tell. I think they use some sort of body lift on the 5500 maybe the 4500 too.

Jeff

 

Thanks Jeff, I think there is some sort of lift as well. I just traded a F250 4x4 for the 5500 4x4 and if the handle weren't there on the pillar, I'd have a heck of a time getting in. I have bars on order and should be here tomorrow...no more jumping into the cab. Thanks again!

H