Quote:
Originally Posted by MC1
On another forum I learned that a 1975 Ford mini pickup had a 1,400lb payload. For a 2,600lb truck that is quite impressive. It makes one wonder why current full sized pick ups that have a curb weight of 5,000lbs still have the 1,400 to 1,500lb ratings.
Ford Courier Facts | eHow.com
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Increased payload packages in
light trucks are mostly accomplished with extra spring rates and heavier
tires. (up to the reasonable limits of the carlike axle) Ride and comfort have usurped the position of importance once held by payload.
The newer oversized pickups have often shared many of the same components of their smaller siblings. My Ranger uses the same transmission and differential as it's contemporary F-150 and with actually a stronger V6.
We had a new 1973 PL620 Datsun pick-up which came with overload springs and 6Ply
tires (with tubes!) which gave it a load rating equal to some "3/4 ton" trucks of the era. That, combined with the
light body and "church pew" seat, gave it a kidney testing ride so rough that I once had two popbottle lids go ballistic less than 5 miles from the house!
I often thought that I might be able to run over a dime and determine it's year by the transferred impact!