Re: truck classification
A lot of times, the 1 tons ride the same as the 3/4 tons. They have extra springs that sit above the standard springs and only come in contact when the bed is loaded and the springs are compressed.<br /><br />Technically, the 1 ton ratings are not all that accurate. I have an 06 Dodge 3500 (1 ton) dually. I can hold 4770 lbs in the bed, thus making it a 2 1/4 ton truck. The same 3500 with single rear wheels can only hold 2820. 3/4 and 1 tons use 8 or 9 bolt rims instead of the 5 bolt found on lighter trucks. <br /><br />Also important is the safety factor. 3/4 and 1 tons have larger brake assemblies designed to stop the loads thay are rated to pull. A lot of half tons claim to be able to pull 9k plus pounds, but their brakes are not designed with that in mind. if a 3/4 and a 1/2 ton, each with the same trailer, slam on the brakes, the 3/4 will have a much shorter stopping distance.<br /><br />Bottom line, the half tons are light duty trucks on lighter weight frames with lighter weight suspension and drive train componants. They have a smoother sometimes carlike ride. The 3/4 and 1 tons are a medium duty pickup. They have heavier frames, stiffer frames and typically stronger engines. The ride will be stiff and jittery when unloaded but they can pull like the beast. You can get the Diesel engines on the 3/4 and 1 tons. They are not available on the 1/2 tons.<br /><br />Price wise, the jump in price from 1/2 to 3/4 is usually around 4-5k. The price jump from a 3/4 to 1 ton is only about 1k. Most people get the 3/4 ton only to realize they should have got the 1 ton. The ride is the same on both.<br /><br />Whats best for you depends on how you plan to use it? <br />Good gas mileage, light hauling = go with a compact truck<br />More room, light occasional hauling = full size half ton.<br />Medium Hauling, Heavy pulling = 3/4 ton<br />Heavy hauling, heavy pulling = 1 ton (fifth wheels)<br />Extreme hauling and pulling = go to the medium duty commercial truck market, example the Ford F450, 550, 650 and 750. There is an entire market that handles this class.<br /><br />Nav
