We've been looking at new CTD RAMs lately, and I've heard mentioned (more than once) that the only real difference between a 2500 and a 3500 is a heavier leaf spring in the rear of the truck. At first, I dismissed this as a sales tactic designed to push us toward a 3/4 ton truck (that's all they have on the lots around here). However, I've now studied the spec sheet closely and it would seem that the folks at the dealership may be correct?
Specifically, the Max Loaded Trailer Weight specification chart I've been reading specifies a 1,050 lb difference between a 2500 Quad Cab SB 4x4 and a 3500 Quad Cab SB 4x4 (both with 3.73 axle ratios). After reading this bit of information, I wanted to run this by the folks on the forum.
What is the mechanical difference between the 2500 and the 3500?
If it's true that the only difference is the rear leaf springs, would it be relatively easy to convert a 2500 into a 3500? In other words, would the heavier leaf spring bolt right up to the 2500? And if so,
I'd also like to know if it's difficult to change the gears in the rear differential (I haven't seen a RAM with the 4.10 option around these parts either).
We have a real need for a CTD-equipped 4x4 at the moment, so we're looking hard at the remaining 2008s. As we've left it kind of late, the pickens are a bit thin here. Nevertheless, the current incentives to purchase a 2008 model are the only thing making this possible for us. This being the case, I'd really appreciate reading more about the actual differences before we go any further with the search.
Thanks for your time...
