The straight and simple facts are that ANY pickup truck is overloaded
technically. No real law yet ...the day will come...
Anytime you approach the GCVWR you are taking chances. Don't believe dealers
when they say "it'll do it"..cause it will, but at what cost and for how
long.
Yes, you can "beef" up a PU, but, unless you "beef" up everything, there will
still be a weak link.
Check your local truck trader. We often find "business class" and small
tractors (as in BIG TRUCK) for sale very reasonably (under $30,000 used).
Get one rated for under 26,000 pounds and you have got all the trcuk you
will ever need without the problems..and BETTER features (such as GOOD
brakes, trans. etc.)
Good luck,
Teddy