1 ton conversion
Even if you change the 2500 HD single rear end to a 3500 duel wheel rear end with the correct ratio under Ab and Canada (for that matter north America) DOT regulations will still recognize the truck as a 2500 and your GVW will still be the same. As D-max pointed out find a truck that meets your needs and dedicate it to the job in hand. I Know From first hand experience when i got stopped at a road side check and had to prove that my duelly was in fact a one ton from day one and not a conversion. It was a trip to the nearest chev dealer and a notary public to get everything legal so i could continue alomg on my merry way (only 40 miles one way). It did not help matters that i had a 12.5 ft camper on and pulling a 18ft trailer with a full size p/u on it. When all said and done they said have a safe trip and a nice day.
1985 K1500-sold
79 dually 4x4-soon to have modified 6.2/6.5l turbo
1996 shortbox-extended cab 2WD 1500 6.5L