Increase Gvwr

AFChappy · April 30, 2008

Greetings all,

Looking for info on how one can increase GVWR for a 2500 HD D/A CC. My current truck GVWR is 9200 and instead of buying a new truck I was looking at how I can increase the GVWR. In reading this forum and others, it has been mentioned that there are some aftermarket compaines that can increase gvwr and certify the modifications. Is this possible or just an urban myth? Thanks

Zembonez · April 30, 2008

Greetings back at ya!

I think some more info is really needed to answer your question properly. Are you wanting to tow extra heavy? Tell us what you are trying to get the truck to do...

AFChappy · May 1, 2008

Greetings back at ya!

I think some more info is really needed to answer your question properly. Are you wanting to tow extra heavy? Tell us what you are trying to get the truck to do...

Thanks, I'm trying to add about 700 - 1000 GVWR to my 2500 HD. This will allow us to tow the 5th wheel that we are looking at and maybe change the fuel tank or add a fuel transfer tank to the bed.

Zembonez · May 1, 2008

Thanks, I'm trying to add about 700 - 1000 GVWR to my 2500 HD. This will allow us to tow the 5th wheel that we are looking at and maybe change the fuel tank or add a fuel transfer tank to the bed.

Seems like an easy fix might be going to a pair if 3500 rear leafs... or at least a good upgrade. Certainly want to run E rated tires at max load inflation. Trailer brakes from hell for sure if you are towing at the limit.

Good luck man.

Anybody else got any input here?

Ranger · May 1, 2008

You could get one or two add-a-leaf springs which should give you a good boost, but stock-wise it should handle being over the GVWR by a good margin, I've had about 4,000 lbs in my 2500hd's bed before and I did not feel like it was too overwhelmed by the weight.

AFChappy · May 1, 2008

Thanks for the input. Has anyone else added springs or airbags to their 2500HD classic? What are some of the items I should consider. My wife and I plan to full time RV in a few years and want to consider all the options.

Mikeee · May 3, 2008

Adding springs and/or airbags is one thing but what about the axle itself?

Is the load rating of the axle at 30% under the engineered design factor?

50%?

10%?

pennzoil29 · May 3, 2008

Adding springs and/or airbags is one thing but what about the axle itself?
Is the load rating of the axle at 30% under the engineered design factor?

50%?

10%?

I also would think that you would have to build up the axle. I had an older 3/4 ton that I had a 1 ton axle and an x-tra leaf installed.

AFChappy · May 3, 2008

Actually, it seems that the axle on my 2500HD is the same as the 3500HD. The only differences I have been told is the OEM shocks, leaf spring, and tires. Otherwise the components are the same. So while I can change the tires, shocks, add a spring or airbags, if I wanted to get the sticker on the door to read a higher GVWR, I know I need someone who is certified to change the GVWR. While I don't have any plans to do so at this time, I would like to know how to find someone who can certify the changes. Thanks again for your suggestions and comments.

Mikeee · May 3, 2008

Adding springs and/or airbags is one thing but what about the axle itself?
Is the load rating of the axle at 30% under the engineered design factor?

50%?

10%?

I also would think that you would have to build up the axle. I had an older 3/4 ton that I had a 1 ton axle and an x-tra leaf installed.

If I was gonna run the max weight most of the time, then this is the best way to go without getting an actual 1 Ton truck.

ZZ327 · May 3, 2008

heavier shocks, air suspension, trailer brakes, and eventually tires will work for ya. The 2500HD ext cab 2002 work truck we use is licensed for 6 tons.

You are right, If you go RVing theres always the chance youll get pulled over by a DOT officer(state patrol) to check out your truck for the weight ratings and what youre hauling.

how big of a trailer are you pulling? A DMAX 2500HD CC is rated for 14,500 lbs

Paul58 · May 3, 2008

I added a set of Super Springs rated at 3000 lbs and added a high capacity, finned, aluminum differential cover and new synthetic 70W-140 rear gear oil to help with towing our RV. The nice thing about the super springs is they don't alter the stock ride until you load them, and then the truck rides on the additional springs.

desrtrat · May 3, 2008

Thanks, I'm trying to add about 700 - 1000 GVWR to my 2500 HD. This will allow us to tow the 5th wheel that we are looking at and maybe change the fuel tank or add a fuel transfer tank to the bed.

what size 5th wheel are you looking at? what you need to find out first, is what is the king pin weight of the trailer. some of the new ones are being manufactured with less weight on the king pin.(tri axles) then see what mods you need to the truck, you may find you will be OK..

AFChappy · May 3, 2008

heavier shocks, air suspension, trailer brakes, and eventually tires will work for ya. The 2500HD ext cab 2002 work truck we use is licensed for 6 tons.

You are right, If you go RVing theres always the chance youll get pulled over by a DOT officer(state patrol) to check out your truck for the weight ratings and what youre hauling.

how big of a trailer are you pulling? A DMAX 2500HD CC is rated for 14,500 lbs

I looking at a 5er around 35 foot with a 14200 GVWR. The dry weight is around 10500 and I suspect we will haul it with camping gear, clothes, etc near 13000. It seems that according to a retired DOT and my own state's DOT rules for non-commercial, I only need a tag that covers the increased GVWR.