Get the dually with the biggest payload possible. One tons are for haulling, play trucks are for lift kits and big tires. Don't risk getting into an accident and losing everything you own when the insurance co. proves you overloaded your truck and won't pay up (lawyers like that too). Since we got a new PSD tow boss dually I have to check the mirrors to see if the trailer is still there. Save the 3-5K (lift kit/tires) and buy some off-road toys. I take my stock dually all the time to sit at comp hill, no problems getting out there. My truck was bought to tow, not off-road, if you're looking for dual purpose then that's a different story, but never overload your haul vehicle! A couple of years from now you might want a bigger trailer, and then...opps truck is too overloaded. My friends all had dualies and thought it was overkill untill they towed my trailer home once and I got to drive. The difference in stability is huge! In regards to tranny, keep in mind if you get hurt riding, can my better half clutch that truck, if she can, great! Lift kits are fun, I had my share, but sometimes praticality and common sense have to be taken into account. Besides if you want a cool ride, buy a Mustang GT, and let the wife drive the toyhauler. My wife drives our long bed, crew cab, DRW everywhere, it's made her a better driver! And my Mustang passes all the lifted trucks!