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P40murf
06-16-2003, 19:47
I pull a 12,000# 5th wheel with my D/A 4X4, which exceeds the GVWR by 300#, but is 400# under the rear axle and tire limits. I know I can upgrade to 265's, but the rear axle limit is really close if I have pax in the rear seat and some firewood, etc. I became curious as to the differences between the 2500 vs. 3500 rear axles. I called two different parts departments and gave them the VIN to see what they could tell me. They both determined the rear axle is an 11 1/2 incher, which surprised them both. Is that axle larger than most 2500's? How would that stack up against a 3500, discounting the obvious tire factor? Do you think the GAWR would be higher than 6084? Thanks.
dmaxalliTech
06-16-2003, 20:30
2500 and 3500 axles are same, 11.5 inch. Duals and more leafs is only difference. VERY good axle
GMCTRUCK
06-17-2003, 12:48
All diesel and big block 2500s and all 3500s use the 11.5 rear. 6.0 2500s get the 10.5. Like dmaxalliTech said only difference is bigger spring pack and dually hubs on the 3500.
P40murf
06-17-2003, 22:47
I appreciate your replies, even though the answers were disappointing. I was hoping the 11 1/2" axle was something special in the 2500. As long as the axle is the same as the 3500's, would going to 265's in addition to my Timbren rubber springs theoretically increase the GAWR somewhat? Do you think the GAWR is only 6084# because of potential handling problems or premature wear/failure?
Joe Pool
06-17-2003, 23:14
P40murf,

Your current GAWR is 6084# due to the fact that the factory tires on the 2500HD are each rated at 3042#.

3042 + 3042 = 6084

I believe that the limiting factor here is the tire rating, not the axle or rear springs. There is more capacity than 6084# available on the rear axle.

Hope this helps, Joe smile.gif
JimWilson
06-26-2003, 14:53
I tend to agree with Joe Pool; If the axle is the same one the 3500 dually uses (minus the extra springs and tires, of course) then it must be pretty stout because that truck has a higher bed capacity. But overweight is still overweight, so just upgrading tires doesn't really do all that much for you.