When shopping for a heavy-duty truck, specifically the 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 Denali Ultimate, buyers often face a critical decision: Should you go with the Dually (Dual Rear Wheel/DRW) or the Single Rear Wheel (SRW) configuration?
At a glance, they look like the same beast, but the difference in capability is massive. It all comes down to two things: towing and payload.
If you are trying to decide which 3500 fits your needs, we’ve broken down the specs, the suspension differences, and the real-world implications of choosing one over the other.
What Stays the Same?
Before diving into the differences, it is important to know that the "guts" of these trucks are identical. Whether you choose the Dually or the Single Rear Wheel, you are getting the same foundation:
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Engine & Transmission: Both feature the powerful Duramax engine putting out approx. 475 hp and 960-970 lb-ft of torque.
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Platform: The frame, brakes, and drivetrain remain consistent.
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Conventional Towing: Surprisingly, conventional towing (off the hitch) is identical at 20,000 lbs for both trucks.
If you are only doing conventional towing, the SRW 3500 already offers everything you need. The real differences appear when you start looking at the suspension and fifth-wheel capabilities.
The Suspension Difference: It’s All in the Springs
The physical difference isn't just the extra tires on the back; it’s how the truck supports weight.
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The Dually (DRW): Features a robust setup with seven leaf springs (four main springs plus three helper springs).
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The Single Rear Wheel (SRW): Features a total of six leaf springs (four main springs plus two helper springs).
Those helper springs engage specifically when the truck is under load. The Dually offers that extra layer of support, which translates directly to higher payload numbers.
The Numbers: Fifth Wheel Towing & Payload
This is where the Dually earns its "Mac Daddy" status. If you are hauling heavy fifth-wheel campers or gooseneck trailers, the Dually is the clear winner.
1. Max Fifth Wheel Towing Capacity
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Dually (Denali Ultimate): ~30,700 lbs
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Single Rear Wheel: ~21,100 lbs
The Result: The Dually gives you nearly 10,000 lbs more towing capacity for fifth-wheel/gooseneck setups.
2. Payload Capacity
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Dually: 5,254 lbs
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Single Rear Wheel: 3,748 lbs
The Result: The Dually offers approximately 1,500 lbs more payload capacity.
The Stability Factor
Numbers on a spec sheet are one thing, but driving feel is another. If you are pulling a 40 to 45-foot fifth wheel, the stability provided by the Dual Rear Wheel setup is substantial.
When you are navigating highways, dealing with crosswinds, or climbing and descending mountains, the wide stance of the Dually keeps the truck planted. While the SRW is capable, the Dually provides peace of mind and safety when hauling near max capacity.
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
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Choose the Single Rear Wheel (SRW) if your primary focus is conventional towing. It matches the Dually’s 20,000 lb limit and is easier to park and drive daily.
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Choose the Dually (DRW) if you are towing heavy fifth wheels or goosenecks. The extra 10,000 lbs of towing capacity and 1,500 lbs of payload make it the only choice for massive loads.
Watch the full comparison video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpzRZtPMqGQ