Differences - 2500 vs. 3500

Several questions as to the differences between 1988 - 1998 3/4 and 1 ton trucks.

The differences that I am aware of:
2500 - 8600 lb GVWR
3500 - 9200 lb GVWR
-tow ratings are also different
-you can generally get lower gear ratios (numerically higher) in the 3500
-some of the 3500s had full floater rear axles, not sure about the 2500s?

The similarities that I am aware of:
-both have load range E tires
-what about brakes?
-both have a set of 6 leafs in each rear spring pack.

My main question, aside from gearing options, what differentiates the load ratings between the 2500 and 3500?

Thanks!

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Hi 2500HD4x4 -

With the 3500 you also got the heavier Borg Warner transfer case with PTO plate (BW4407), a 4L8E trans, power boost brakes, the 14 bolt rear end....all the good stuff.

A 3500 HD will have a drop axle and the big wheels.

With the advent of the silverado series, the 2500HD got the same stuff as well as the 3500.

I have a 2000 K3500 with single rear wheels (not a dually) .


best regards -

mqqn

Hi 2500HD4x4 -

With the 3500 you also got the heavier Borg Warner transfer case with PTO plate (BW4407), a 4L8E trans, power boost brakes, the 14 bolt rear end....all the good stuff.

A 3500 HD will have a drop axle and the big wheels.

With the advent of the silverado series, the 2500HD got the same stuff as well as the 3500.

I have a 2000 K3500 with single rear wheels (not a dually) .


best regards -

mqqn

mqqn,

My 1998 K2500 has the 4L80E, power boost brakes (I'm pretty sure), and the 14 bolt. So maybe I'm only missing the lower gearing and the Borg Warner t-case with PTO?

Thank you for the information, I should have initially specified that I'm interested in comparing the 1998 - 2000 (before the HD chassis were switched over) K2500 to a K3500 single rear wheel as you have.

mqqn,

My 1998 K2500 has the 4L80E, power boost brakes (I'm pretty sure), and the 14 bolt. So maybe I'm only missing the lower gearing and the Borg Warner t-case with PTO?

Thank you for the information, I should have initially specified that I'm interested in comparing the 1998 - 2000 (before the HD chassis were switched over) K2500 to a K3500 single rear wheel as you have.

Hi -

I think you have the BW transfer - it's part of the 3500 setup - Hd is another story, but same transfer case for all- it's the big dog!

best regards -

mqqn

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