Getting a cabover camper | Question about payload + safety

[devmcc]

I have a 2020 RAM 1500 Bighorn with a payload capacity of 1,790 lbs. I've been looking at truck campers that are all <1,200 lbs, but came across one at a killer price that's 1,300 lbs dry. Throw in a 20lb propane tank, 10lbs of water, gear, me, my girlfriend, and my dogs, and I'm probably up to ~1,700 lbs. Curious to get this group's thoughts -- am I pushing it? If I'm driving ~10 hours/month with the camper on, how much risk am I taking as it relates to longevity/reliability/safety?

I have stock coil springs with helper bags in the rear, load range E tires.

 

[CalvinC]

You're wise to already be calling the distinction between dry and loaded weights. Only you can fully inventory your typical fully loaded weights, but if you are accurate in your 1,700 lb estimate including passengers I think you'd be just fine.
Especially since you have the E tires and air bags.
I would be adding a Helwig sway bar and Bilstien 5100 shocks at least in the rear, and call it good.
The most surprising part is finding a slide in camper that light - despite the marketing, I've never seen one that is really half-ton capable.

 

[Scram1500]

Shouldnt be an issue, but definitely look at upgrading the rear sway bar. The heavier E rated tire technically lowers your payload but since it's unsprung weight it's not a huge factor, unless you're on 37 inch tires