I didn't necessarily NEED a F350, but figured I'd be safer should I ever get weighed or be in an accident where GVWR would have exceed that on the F250. I had replaced the rear block on the F250 anyway, but when looking for a lightly used truck, found no difference in price between the 250's and the 350's.

Just sold my 02 F250, and traded an 05 F350 SRW King Ranch in on an 08 F350 SRW KR. both have/had the 11400 GVWR. the 05 had the camper package with rear sway bar, the 08 doesn't. not sure what the difference in the two is aside from that. Here in NC, or at least with Farm Bureau, insurance is CHEAPER (requires a business auto policy). My insurance is 250 bucks a year cheaper on this 08 than it was on my 02 F250 with 8800 GVWR. I have weighted tags at 20k lbs, will up to 24k or so upon renewal.

Just checked, Rear AWR is 6900 and front is 5600, how does that compare to the 2011's?

There was a thread here a few days ago about a guy wanting a mid 90s 460 motorhome regeared becuase it was to loud driving "for hours at 65mph"

Im with you even my 250 doesnt go over 65. Gives you a bigger safety margin

Thats basically my thoughts as well. Unlike most who need SD's for towing, I haul mainly so thats why I got an 8' bed and a 350. I know alot of times I am bordeline with the 350 ratings and sometimes way over, so atleast the higher ratings would get me out of a $$ fine or atleast less of a fine. The cost wasnt much difference and neither is our local registration or insurance between the two.