I figured the same thing with the rear axle weight ratings on a SRW. They seem to be dictated by the tire rating. The continals I have are good for 3085# each, so that would give 6170# for the pair. Thats pretty darn close to the 6150# door rating. This makes me me think that the axle its self is ok for more weight, they just restricted it because of the tires.

Also there were no SRW 3500 2nd gen Dodges so I wouldn't be surprised to find the 3500 2nd gens had a beefier axle than the 2500.

 

I had to go check my ratings just now, 4850 on the front, and 6084 on the rear. Thats for the 2500. AFAIK, the axle ratings (for the housings) was 4500 and 6500, respectively. Thats for a 8800 GVWR.

How about some numbers from a 2500 and 3500 SRW, both with the same tranny (so the rear diffs are the same), are the GAWR's still the same?

 

I am not 100% sure yet but I found out supposibly all AAM 11.5 are rated by AAM for 10912lbs. The only difference between the drw and srw is axle shafts and inner wheeling bearing. Just for the wider stance, not extra load. Minor differences in the spring pack to for the extra weight. Gonna look into it more but I see no reason if you keep srw and go to heavier tires, and got air bags the axle will carry it fine, all parts are rated for the same weight.

I don't plan to go crazy, but 6200 comes quick. Being able to go up to 6500 or even like 6800 would sure be nice.