I know this is a n00b question, but here goes.

What is the difference between a 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton, and 1 ton truck? What about the truck is limited to carrying that weight? I'm fairly certain it isn't max payload weight, since a 1/2 ton Suburban can still carry 9 people (roughly 1.5 tons), so what does it really mean?

Thanks,

hklvette

I think your numbers are off a little. The average person is around 150 pounds, X 9 = 1350 (or just under 3/4 ton). If you think my number is a little low, you have to remember that average person figure is based off of male, female and child weights.

It also does have to do with payload ratings. A 3/4 ton cannot handle as much of a payload as a 1 ton and a 1/2 ton cannot handle as much as a 3/4. As far as exact weights, it depends on other factors such as options, cab configurations, long bed or short bed, etc.

Tow ratings have the factors that come into play also and we wont even get into brakes, axles, available drive-trains, etc.