Thought I would pose a question to the list. I am in the market for a new truck, and am really only considering the Dodge.


I would like to understand the differences between the 2500 and 3500, other than the load carrying capacity. From what I have found, the clutch is bigger on the 3500 13" vs 11.5", but the rest is not clear.


My primary use will be towing my car to the track, and use in poor weather, but it will also be used when we need to transport more than 2 people. So I am looking for a 4 door short bed, 2wd (LSD), standard trans, Cummins.


I would like to know opinions on why to choose either. I expect that the 2500 will have a slightly better ride. Currently driving Dodge 1500 with 5.9l gas.


Thanks, Eric

The ride would be the biggest factor. The 3500 that I recently purchased is an absoulute hell driving on Los Angeles and Ventura County freeways (unloaded). Loaded it rides very nicely. I think a 2500 should be sufficient for you. There's a coulple of different sized parts betweeen the 2500 & 3500, but with size comes cost down the road.

Ditch the d**ge, Buy a GMC. You will appreciate it later. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Approve.gif

buy the dodge you won't regret ithttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif

Not sure where you came up with the clutch being different, first time I ever heard that one. Drive train wise there is no difference. Spring packs are the same until they hit the overload so empty you should see no noticible difference between a 3500 SRW and a 2500.Cab clearance lights being standard on the 3500 SRW, and overload springs, that is pretty much it. Edited by: MABurns

Check out the used values on KBB or Edmunds, used SRW 3500s are worth more than used 2500s. Also the 3500 SRW is only available with the diesel. I have read, have not checked myself, that the rear spring pack on the 3500 SRW is softer than the 2500, because the 3500 has the overload springs.

Thanks to all that have replied to my question. Talking to dealers was a waste of time. They know less than the average consumer at least in this neck of the woods. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Dead.gif


The other difference I have heard is that the differential ring gear is larger in the 3500. I have taken both for a ride, and there is very little if any difference unloaded.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Geek.gif


With regards to the Chevy or GMC question, I just can not understand paying $5-6K more for a similarly equiped truck. I also found that the Chevy and GMC have the least amount of steering feeback and seem to respond slower to all inputs (steering and braking). I looked at the Ford, and like it (best ride of the group), but have not had good luck with the previous Ford vehicles. Hence the Dodge decision.


I actually found that the 3500 dually rides very well, and is not a big as I thought it would be. Major consideration going on there, since I have been offered a very good deal (nearly $4K under invoice, and same cost as 2500). Would also work well with planned enclosed trailer with 5th wheel.


Thanks again, Eric

I think the ring gears are 11.5 on both the 2500 and the 3500, just like the GM trucks. Dodge is using AAM rears now. Dana is hurtin

2500 Gassers (HEMIs) get the 10.5", not that anybody here would care.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif

I think you are correct Hoot,11.5 for both 2500 and 3500 SRW.Wish it was still the Dana 80.