What is a Dually Truck?

A dually rear-wheel truck – often referred to as a dually – is a heavy-duty pickup truck with two rear wheels on each side, allowing more road contact and width for greater stability, balance, and traction while driving. Chances are you have been behind one of these widebody vehicles on the road and noticed its brawny stance and muscular fenders.

With four back wheels instead of two, and a stronger rear axle, a dually truck can handle a larger amount of payload weight and offer more towing capacity compared to its standard single rear-wheel pickup truck counterparts. For example, a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD V-8 turbo-diesel truck can haul 2,215 more pounds and tow 5,500 more pounds than its SRW version. Add a gooseneck hitch to both trucks and the dually out-tows the standard version by a remarkable 14,000 pounds.

Most dually trucks are also equipped with bigger, stronger brakes for additional stopping power, as well as heavy-duty shocks and springs for greater capability to tread uneven terrain and rough driving surfaces.

Dually Truck Usage

Due to their higher towing and payload capacities, dually trucks are commonly used in construction to tow heavy machinery and carry building materials. Their ability to safely haul substantial loads makes them a logical choice for builders, contractors, and material suppliers.

Away from construction sites and commercial operation, dually trucks are often used to tow large trailers for boats and horses over extended distances. Many of these trailers can weigh 20,000 pounds or more depending on their cargo.

And in the RV arena, families who enjoy the outdoors may utilize a dually to tow a large fifth-wheel camper or multiple motorized recreation vehicles (i.e. four-wheelers, motorcycles, jet skis). A standard pickup truck may be able to handle some of these items, but not with the same level of surefootedness. The power and stability of a dually truck can inspire confidence and allow the ability to pull large or weighty loads in a more controlled manner.

Compared to standard pickup trucks, dually trucks have clear performance advantages such as increased maximum towing and payload capacities, enhanced traction in dirt or mud, and greater stability and sway control when trailering, especially in windy conditions or while driving on curvy roads. These characteristics make these trucks ideal for specific applications.