Been gone a lot this summer touring (so no posting) in my 51 3800 pickup with camper. The whole rig weighs ~9,000lbs. and I run 60-65 on the interstate. I've had the truck for many, many years and have replaced two front wheel ball bearings in that time -- perhaps 180,000 miles. I've put it on the scale and the front axle weighs 3200lbs loaded. It's rated for 3500, as I recall. So this belated note is just to comfort the OP who is concerned about ball bearing life. Go for it! And look for an Avion camper. They look a bit like an Airstream, are well made and look really cool. They show up on Craig's list now and again.
