Steve, I don't have a firm answer on what "heavy" is, more of a feel, but the GVW tag is probably a good and safe starting point. You've probably had a truck overloaded, and know what I'm taking about.
The reasons why I may limit the use of the one ton is mostly power, it should be fine around town, but no extra power, just right, and reasonably econimacal. You should have plenty with yours. That and I don't want to build it really heavy, just normal 1 ton stuff, similar in size and strength to the original stuff, which was good for 8,800 lb loaded, some thought went into that before the truck was new.
Then perhaps the biggest reason I don't have big plans for the 1 ton is the 2 ton will be much better at hauling stuff, and will probably end up as my primary truck. 2 ton sounds big, but in reality it's no longer or wider than a modern long bed crew cab single wheel pickup, just built with stronger stuff.
Don't think I see anything you don't. Only concern would be the frame but not sure why. A well made crossmember at the back of the engine and a good trailer hitch that straddles the rear most spring hangers may be a good idea.
Overall I don't have a good answer for you... I'm building mine because I think it's right for me, I wouldn't go about it like you are, but that doesn't mean yours won't work for you, just different needs and approaches.
Grigg
