What Is A Dually Truck

The Ultimate Guide to Dually Trucks: Unlocking the Power of Dual Rear Wheels 2025

Introduction to Dually Trucks

A dually truck, also known as a “dual rear wheel” (DRW) vehicle, is a powerful and versatile type of pickup truck that features two rear wheels on each side instead of the standard single rear wheel configuration. This unique design provides several key benefits that make dually trucks an essential choice for those with heavy-duty hauling and towing needs.

Why Choose a Dually Truck?

Unparalleled Hauling and Towing Capabilities

Dually trucks are the pinnacle of heavy-duty performance, offering unmatched payload and towing capacities. With their dual rear wheels, dually trucks can handle loads that would overwhelm a standard single-rear-wheel pickup. Whether you’re transporting construction equipment, towing a large RV, or moving farm machinery, a dually truck has the strength and stability to get the job done safely and efficiently.

Improved Stability and Control

The wide stance of a dually truck’s rear wheels provides exceptional stability and handling, even when carrying maximum payload or towing heavy trailers. This enhanced stability and control translates to a smoother, safer driving experience, especially on uneven terrain or when navigating tight spaces.

Durability and Longevity

Dually trucks are built with heavy-duty components and reinforced frames to withstand the rigors of constant heavy-duty use. This robust construction means dually trucks have a longer lifespan and can continue performing at a high level for years to come, making them a wise long-term investment for those with demanding hauling and towing needs.

The Mechanical Marvel: Defining a Dually Truck

A dually truck, short for “dual rear wheel” truck, distinguishes itself with a unique wheel setup:

• Standard Configuration: Two additional wheels on the rear axle
• Total Wheel Count: Six wheels (four in the rear, two in the front)
• Primary Purpose: Increased weight distribution and load-bearing capacity

Historical Context and Evolution

The concept of dually trucks emerged from industrial and agricultural needs. Farmers and heavy-load transporters required vehicles that could handle extreme weights without compromising stability.

Key Milestones in Dually Truck Development

Year	Milestone
1950s	First commercial dually trucks introduced
1970s	Widespread adoption in commercial sectors
2000s	Advanced suspension and enhanced load technologies
2020s	Sophisticated electronic load management systems

Key Features of Dually Trucks

The defining feature of a dually truck is its dual rear wheels, which offer several distinct advantages:

Increased Payload Capacity

The extra set of rear wheels on a dually truck enables it to carry significantly more weight than a standard single-rear-wheel (SRW) pickup. Dually trucks are often rated for payloads of 3,000 lbs or more, making them ideal for hauling heavy loads such as construction equipment, farm machinery, or large RVs.

Enhanced Stability and Control

The wider rear-wheel stance of a dually provides improved stability and handling, especially when towing heavy trailers or navigating uneven terrain. This enhanced stability helps to keep the vehicle stable and under control, even when carrying maximum payload.

Improved Towing Capabilities

Dually trucks are designed to handle the immense weight and forces involved in towing large fifth-wheel trailers, gooseneck trailers, and other heavy loads. The dual rear wheels distribute the weight more evenly, providing superior traction and control during towing.

Heavy-Duty Construction

To support their increased carrying and towing capacities, dually trucks are built with reinforced frames, suspensions, and other heavy-duty components. This robust construction ensures that dually trucks can withstand the rigors of hauling and towing without compromising performance or reliability.

Types of Dually Trucks

Dually trucks come in a variety of configurations and models to suit the diverse needs of their owners. Some of the most common types of dually trucks include:

1-Ton Dually Trucks

These heavy-duty pickups, typically rated at a 1-ton gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), are designed for the most demanding hauling and towing tasks. They offer the highest payload and towing capacities in the dually truck category.

2-Ton Dually Trucks

While slightly less powerful than their 1-ton counterparts, 2-ton dually trucks still provide exceptional hauling and towing capabilities. These models are often used in construction, agriculture, and other commercial applications.

Diesel-Powered Dually Trucks

Many dually trucks, especially the heavier-duty models, are equipped with powerful diesel engines. The diesel-powered dually offers unparalleled torque and towing strength, making it a top choice for those who need to haul or tow the largest and heaviest loads.

Lifted Single-Cab Dually Trucks

Some enthusiasts opt to modify their dually trucks with lifted suspensions and oversized off-road tires, creating a unique and aggressive visual style. These lifted single-cab dually trucks are popular among those who prioritize both functionality and style.

Choosing the Right Dually Truck

Top Manufacturers and Models

• Ford F-350/F-450
  • Payload: Up to 7,640 pounds
  • Towing Capacity: 37,000 pounds
• Ram 3500
  • Payload: Up to 7,680 pounds
  • Towing Capacity: 35,100 pounds
• Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
  • Payload: Up to 7,442 pounds
  • Towing Capacity: 36,000 pounds

Applications of Dually Trucks

Dually trucks are widely used in a variety of industries and applications due to their exceptional hauling and towing capabilities. Some of the most common use cases for dually trucks include:

Construction and Heavy Equipment Hauling

The robust design and immense payload capacity of dually trucks make them an indispensable tool for construction companies and heavy equipment operators. They are often used to transport bulldozers, excavators, and other large machinery to job sites.

Towing RVs and Fifth-Wheel Trailers

Dually trucks are the preferred choice for those who need to tow large recreational vehicles, such as fifth-wheel trailers and large campers. Their superior towing power and stability ensure a smooth and safe towing experience, even with the heaviest of loads.

Farming and Agriculture

Farmers and ranchers often rely on dually trucks to move heavy farm equipment, haul livestock, and transport large bales of hay or other agricultural products. The durable construction and impressive payload of dually trucks make them well-suited for these demanding applications.

Special Events and Vehicle Shows

Dually trucks are a common sight at specialty vehicle shows, where their unique appearance and impressive capabilities are celebrated. They are often used to transport and showcase other custom or high-performance vehicles.

Advantages of Dually Trucks Over Standard Trucks

Dually trucks offer several distinct advantages over their standard single-rear-wheel counterparts, making them the preferred choice for those with heavy-duty hauling and towing requirements:

Superior Towing and Hauling Performance

The dual rear wheels on a dually truck provide more traction and stability when towing or hauling heavy loads, resulting in improved performance and reduced strain on the vehicle.

Improved Stability and Safety

The wider rear-wheel stance of a dually truck helps to keep the vehicle stable and under control, even when carrying maximum payload or towing heavy trailers. This enhanced stability can be a crucial factor in maintaining safety on the road.

Longer Lifespan and Durability

Dually trucks are built with heavier-duty components and reinforced frames to support their increased carrying and towing capacities. This robust construction translates to a longer lifespan and greater durability compared to standard pickup trucks.

Versatility in Various Work Environments

Whether it’s construction, farming, or recreational towing, dually trucks are well-equipped to handle a wide range of demanding tasks and environments. Their versatility makes them an essential tool for those with diverse hauling and towing needs.

Unique Dually Truck Models

While dually trucks share many common features, there are a few unique models that stand out in the marketplace:

The Phantom Dually

The Phantom Dually is a custom-built dually truck that features an extended cab and a unique, aerodynamic design. This high-performance model is often used for specialty hauling and towing applications, such as transporting luxury sports cars or race-prepared vehicles.

The Dovetail Truck

The Dovetail Truck is a specialized dually configuration that incorporates a fifth-wheel hitch in the truck’s bed, allowing for the seamless integration of a gooseneck trailer. This design provides enhanced stability and maneuverability when towing the heaviest of loads.

Dually Truck Customization and Accessories

Dually truck owners often choose to customize their vehicles with a variety of aftermarket accessories and upgrades to further enhance their performance, appearance, and functionality. Some popular customization options include:

Custom Wheels and Tires

Upgrading to larger, more aggressive wheels and tires can not only improve the visual appeal of a dually truck but also enhance its off-road capabilities and towing performance.

Lift Kits

Lift kits can be installed to raise the suspension of a dually truck, providing additional ground clearance and a more commanding presence on the road.

Gooseneck and Towing Accessories

Accessories such as gooseneck hitches, fifth-wheel hitches, and adjustable towing mirrors can greatly improve the towing capabilities and functionality of a dually truck.

Aesthetic Upgrades

From custom paint jobs and graphics to interior enhancements, there are countless ways for dually truck owners to personalize the appearance of their vehicles and showcase their unique style.

Safety Considerations for Dually Truck Owners

While dually trucks offer exceptional performance and capabilities, it is essential for owners to be mindful of the unique safety considerations associated with these vehicles:

Proper Load Distribution and Weight Management

Ensuring that the weight of the payload or trailer is evenly distributed across the dual rear axles is crucial for maintaining stability and control. Exceeding the vehicle’s weight ratings can compromise handling and increase the risk of accidents.

Wider Turning Radius and Maneuverability

The wider rear-wheel stance of a dually truck requires a larger turning radius, which can make navigating tight spaces or performing certain maneuvers more challenging. Owners must be aware of the vehicle’s dimensions and adjust their driving accordingly.

Increased Braking Distance and Stopping Power

The added weight and size of a dually truck can result in longer braking distances, especially when carrying heavy loads or towing large trailers. Drivers must allow ample space and time to come to a complete stop.

By being aware of these safety considerations and taking appropriate precautions, dually truck owners can safely enjoy the immense capabilities and benefits of their vehicles.

Top 10 Dually Truck Models

As the demand for heavy-duty hauling and towing capabilities continues to grow, the dually truck market has expanded with a wide range of models to choose from. Here are 10 of the top dually truck options on the market:

Ford F-350 Super Duty Dually

The Ford F-350 Super Duty is a perennial favorite among dually truck enthusiasts, offering best-in-class towing and payload capacities along with a wide array of engine, cab, and bed configurations to suit various needs.

Ram 3500 Dually

Boasting a massive towing capacity of up to 37,000 pounds, the Ram 3500 dually is a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy-duty pickups. Its impressive power and capability make it a top choice for those with the most demanding hauling and towing requirements.

Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD Dually

The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD dually combines robust construction, impressive towing ratings, and a comfortable, well-appointed interior, making it a versatile option for both work and leisure activities.

GMC Sierra 3500HD Dually

Sharing many of the same features as the Silverado 3500HD, the GMC Sierra 3500HD dually offers a more premium and upscale interior while maintaining the same exceptional hauling and towing abilities.

Dodge Ram 3500 Dually

The Dodge Ram 3500 dually is a powerful and capable heavy-duty truck that delivers a comfortable ride and a wide range of customization options to suit the needs of any dually truck owner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dually Trucks

What is the width of a dually truck?

The typical width of a dually truck can range from 80 to 96 inches, depending on the make, model, and any aftermarket modifications. The wider stance of the dual rear wheels is a defining feature of dually trucks, providing increased stability and control when hauling or towing heavy loads.

Can dually trucks be lifted?

Yes, many dually truck owners choose to install lift kits to increase the ground clearance of their vehicles. Lifted dually trucks not only have a more aggressive, off-road appearance but also offer improved approach and departure angles, making them better suited for tackling uneven terrain or navigating obstacles.

Are dually trucks more expensive than standard trucks?

Generally, yes, dually trucks are more expensive than their single-rear-wheel counterparts. The added cost is due to the heavier-duty components, reinforced frames, and specialized manufacturing required to produce a dually vehicle. However, the increased capabilities and longevity of a dually truck often make the higher upfront cost a worthwhile investment for those with heavy-duty hauling and towing needs.

What is the towing capacity of a dually truck?

The towing capacity of a dually truck can vary widely depending on the specific make, model, and engine configuration. However, it is not uncommon for dually trucks to have towing capacities in excess of 30,000 pounds, making them ideal for hauling large fifth-wheel trailers, gooseneck trailers, and other heavy-duty loads.

Are dually trucks good in the snow?

Dually trucks can perform well in snowy and icy conditions, thanks to their increased traction and stability provided by the dual rear wheels. The wider stance and heavy-duty construction of dually trucks help them maintain control and grip on slippery surfaces, making them a popular choice for those who need to navigate through harsh winter weather while hauling or towing.

Conclusion

Dually trucks are the pinnacle of heavy-duty hauling and towing power, offering unparalleled payload capacity, towing strength, and stability. Whether you’re a construction contractor, a farmer, or a dedicated RV enthusiast, a dually truck can be an invaluable asset in tackling your most demanding tasks.

By understanding the key features, types, and applications of dually trucks, as well as the unique advantages and customization options they offer, you can make an informed decision about whether a dually truck is the right choice for your specific needs. With the proper safety considerations in mind, dually truck owners can harness the full potential of these powerful and versatile vehicles to conquer even the most challenging jobs.

So, if you’re in the market for a truck that can handle your heaviest loads with ease, consider the impressive capabilities of a dually truck. Prepare to unlock the true power of dual rear wheels and take your hauling and towing capabilities to new heights.

Dually trucks represent the pinnacle of heavy-duty transportation, offering unmatched performance, versatility, and reliability. Whether you’re a professional in construction, agriculture, or simply need serious towing capabilities, understanding the intricacies of dually trucks is crucial.

Expert Insight

“A dually truck isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a mobile workstation designed to conquer the most demanding transportation challenges.” – James Richardson, Heavy-Duty Vehicle Specialist

Final Recommendations

• Assess Your Specific Needs
• Consider Long-Term Ownership Costs
• Prioritize Professional Maintenance
• Invest in Quality Components

By understanding the comprehensive world of dually trucks, you’re better equipped to make an informed decision about these remarkable vehicles.