PDA

View Full Version : Making a 2500/HD into a 3500?


BIGDOG984
06-17-2009, 13:20
Anyone out there know what the real difference is between the 2005 2500HD and 3500 4X4's? I've read that the only difference is one leaf in the rear spring. I wonder about torsion bars, sway bar, wheels, tires etc. I'd appreciate info from someone who really knows the answer vs someone who thinks they know or is repeating what they've heard. Thanks guys.:)
MacDR50
06-18-2009, 17:30
See this previous post. I did all the research and this is the results. I went with the Timbrens instead of a overload spring so I kept the better ride when not towing.

http://www.thedieselpageforums.com/tdpforum/showthread.php?t=33789
Mark Rinker
06-18-2009, 21:42
I don't have facts in order to back this up, but thought a 3500 cab/chassis ordered for upfitting had a thicker frame wall. They do have a unique wheelbase, i.e. a cab/chassis frame is not the same as any other 3500 series frame. I never measured either of mine to compare.

Maybe someone here in the know can comment?
MacDR50
06-19-2009, 16:45
Mark:

The two frames are identical. In fact the 2500 has the holes for the three tier spring set. Tires, wheels and spring set. Thats the difference. Take one of each and put them on a lift and get out the mic's like we did at work and you will see for yourself. Stands to reason the GM isn't interested in sourcing/stocking two different frames. As we used to say as kids "Honest Injun"
HillBilly2
06-20-2009, 06:51
The crash books show the frame for the 8 ft bed std cab 2500 4x4 and the 3500 4x4 have the same part number of 15934370. Rear axle housings appear to be the same. Rear disk brakes are different. Front carrier and axles appear to be the same. Stabilizer bar appears to be the same. Bearings and rotors are different. And of course the springs are different. fwiw.....
Mark Rinker
06-21-2009, 10:35
The empty ride of the K3500 dually is rough, compared to a K2500.

Interestingly, the empty ride of K3500 SRW is smoother than the empty ride of a K2500...
Mark Rinker
06-21-2009, 10:37
Mark:

The two frames are identical. In fact the 2500 has the holes for the three tier spring set. Tires, wheels and spring set. Thats the difference. Take one of each and put them on a lift and get out the mic's like we did at work and you will see for yourself. Stands to reason the GM isn't interested in sourcing/stocking two different frames. As we used to say as kids "Honest Injun"

Agreed. Did you ever a 3500 cab/chassis frame, or a standard 3500 frame?
MacDR50
06-22-2009, 18:49
SRW 3500HD crew cab long box and 2500HD crew cab long box. I am not at that depot just now but the 2500 was a 2005/6 and the 3500 I believe a 2007. The 2500 was the 8.1.
Wing'n'it
08-02-2009, 20:17
IIRC I read another post, long time ago, that said the rear axle tubes are different. 2500 is 1/4" and the 3500 is 5/16"

Mike
DmaxMaverick
08-02-2009, 20:59
IIRC I read another post, long time ago, that said the rear axle tubes are different. 2500 is 1/4" and the 3500 is 5/16"

Mike

I haven't sawed one apart to see the difference, but AAM (the manufacturer) rates the axles exactly the same. 10.5K, IIRC.