2500HD VS 3500 srw

[chuck s]

I currently have a 2001 2500HD crew cab long box 4wd. I just had a front wheel bearing installe 2 months ago and over Christmas The truck shut down on me at 3:30AM on the interstate near Lake Placid NY with no phone service and the temp outside at 2 degrees. The dealer in Canada cleared the code and changed the fuel filter and so far everything is ok. This episode prompted me to check out the 2005 vehicles. I tow a 44" Featherlite trailer with a gross weight of the trailer at 13,500 lbs.I priced out the 2500 HD and the 3500 SRW trucks and the 3500 was cheaper than the 2500. I was wondering if the 3500 SRW rides like a stone without a load in it and how does it compare to the 2500 as far as towing and fuel economy. I also have air bags installed in my 2500 to level the truck while towing with the fifth wheel loaded at 1300 lbs. Thanks

[pgreen]

Well, I can't answer your question on the SRW, but I'm on my second DRW 3500. First was an '02, now an '05.

I pull a 40' gooseneck race trailer. It is about 12K - 13K lbs loaded. I haven't added anything for any load leveling. My trailer is an older heavy trailer. It's over 7000 lbs empty! Truck pulls it nicer than an FI50 with a small 20' tag that a buddy of mine has.

Empty, it rides fine... until you hit something like a speed bump when unloaded! Then it'll about fling the rear airborne! But, as far as a daily driver, it's fine. I think the '05 is smoother and quieter than the '02...may be just the new truck thing too though. No squeaks, rattles, or any annoying noises (at least yet.).

Go for it!

P

[tanker]

Hi Chuck, we road tested both a K-2500HD CC, LB, and a K-3500 CC, LB, SRW. Neither my wife or myself noticed a difference in the ride. We ordered the 3500 for the extra GVW (9900lbs.)The 3500 SRW has one extra leaf in the main spring assy. plus one helper spring. (the dual rear wheel gets two helpers) The 3500 does not have a molding strip at the lower side on the doors. The 3500 is not offered with an aluminum wheel, but comes standard with 265/75 tires to get the 9900lb rating. The 3500 is standard with a locking rear differential. I think a dual rear wheel will give you a rougher ride when empty due to the extra unsprung weight when running a choppy road. The dual rear wheel will give you more stability, which is great for larger trailers. The down side is parking in tight places, and not being allowed on certain roads, like Parkways in the Northeast. Yes its true the 3500 is less money than a 2500HD with same equipment. ie; less aluminum wheels, and side moldings. ;)

[chuck s]

Thanks for your quick reply. How long did they tell you for your new truck order

[tanker]

For Chuck: We ordered ours on Nov. 20th a Saturday, and was told about 12-16 weeks :eek: . Well in late December I received an e-mail from the dealer stating that it will be built in late Janurary. :rolleyes: Friday I received an e-mail that the truck is in, dealer prep, and state inspection completed! :cool: We also had two (SEO) special equipment options, one is the 4x4 decal delete, and also the dual 105 amp alternators, ( I wanted a 145 amp, but not available, only w/ snowplow prep) Now I'm scrambling with my bank to process the loan papers almost one month early. So it took only 6 weeks from order date to delivery, plus they had Thanksgiving, and Christmas, and New Years off. I'd say GM is looking for orders. smile.gif