Used 350 Dually Trucks For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Heavy-Duty Hauling

Used 350 Dually Trucks For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Heavy-Duty Hauling cars.truckstrend.com

In the world of serious towing and hauling, few vehicles command as much respect and capability as the 350 dually truck. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer, a commercial contractor, a rancher, or simply someone who needs to move incredibly heavy loads, a 350 dually is often the indispensable tool for the job. While a brand-new model comes with a hefty price tag, exploring the market for used 350 dually trucks for sale presents a compelling and cost-effective alternative. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about finding, evaluating, and purchasing the perfect pre-owned dually to meet your demanding needs.

What is a 350 Dually Truck? Defining the Beast of Burden

Used 350 Dually Trucks For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Heavy-Duty Hauling

At its core, a "350 dually truck" refers to a heavy-duty pickup truck, typically classified as a 1-ton equivalent, equipped with dual rear wheels on each side of the rear axle. The "350" designation often corresponds to models like the Ford F-350, Ram 3500, or Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 3500HD.

The "dually" configuration, also known as a DRW (Dual Rear Wheel) setup, is the defining characteristic that sets these trucks apart from their single-rear-wheel (SRW) counterparts. By adding two extra tires at the back, dually trucks achieve:

• Increased Stability: The wider stance significantly improves stability, especially when towing large, heavy trailers or navigating crosswinds.
• Higher Payload Capacity: More tires mean the load is distributed over a larger surface area, allowing the truck to carry heavier weights in its bed.
• Greater Towing Capacity: The enhanced stability and payload directly translate to higher Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Ratings (GCWR), enabling them to tow massive fifth-wheel trailers, gooseneck trailers, and other commercial equipment.

These trucks are typically powered by robust gasoline or, more commonly, high-torque diesel engines, paired with heavy-duty transmissions designed to handle extreme loads. They are built for work, plain and simple.

Why Buy a Used 350 Dually? Benefits & Advantages

Opting for a used 350 dually truck over a new one offers a multitude of compelling benefits:

1. Significant Cost Savings: Trucks, especially heavy-duty models, depreciate rapidly in their first few years. Buying used means someone else has absorbed the initial depreciation hit, allowing you to acquire a capable truck for a fraction of the new price.
2. Immediate Availability: Unlike ordering a new truck which can involve long wait times due to production schedules or custom configurations, used trucks are typically available for immediate purchase and use.
3. Proven Reliability: Many common issues or recalls for specific model years might already be known or addressed, allowing you to research and choose models with a strong track record. You can often find detailed owner reviews and long-term reliability reports online.
4. Access to Discontinued Features or Models: Sometimes, a manufacturer might discontinue a particular engine option, trim level, or feature that you prefer. The used market allows you to find these specific configurations.
5. Less Worry About "First Scratches": For a work truck, the first ding or scratch on a new vehicle can be painful. With a used truck, some wear and tear are expected, freeing you from that initial anxiety and allowing you to put the truck straight to work without hesitation.
6. Better Value Retention (Post-Purchase): Since the major depreciation has already occurred, a well-maintained used dually tends to hold its value more steadily compared to a new one during your ownership period.

Key Considerations When Buying a Used 350 Dually

Purchasing a used heavy-duty truck requires careful evaluation. Here are the critical factors to consider:

• Purpose and Capacity Requirements:
  • What will you tow/haul? Know the exact weight of your trailer (Gross Trailer Weight – GTW) and your truck’s required payload capacity (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating – GVWR, and specifically payload capacity). Never exceed these ratings.
  • How often will you tow? Occasional light towing versus daily heavy commercial use will influence your choice of engine, transmission, and overall condition.
• Engine Type: Diesel vs. Gas:
  • Diesel Engines: Offer superior torque for heavy towing, better fuel economy when under load, and typically longer lifespans (often hundreds of thousands of miles if well-maintained). However, they have higher upfront costs, more complex and expensive maintenance (especially emissions systems), and fuel can be more expensive. Common diesels include Ford’s Power Stroke, Ram’s Cummins, and GM’s Duramax.
  • Gas Engines: Lower upfront cost, simpler and cheaper maintenance, generally quieter operation. They are perfectly capable for lighter duty towing and everyday driving but will use more fuel and have less low-end torque for extreme loads.
• Transmission: While manual transmissions were once common, most modern heavy-duty trucks feature robust automatic transmissions. Research the reliability of the specific automatic transmission paired with the engine in the model year you’re considering.
• Mileage: High mileage on a diesel engine isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker if it comes with meticulous maintenance records. For gas engines, lower mileage is generally preferred. Evaluate condition over just mileage alone.
• Maintenance Records: This is paramount. A well-documented service history indicates a responsible previous owner and can reveal potential issues or preventive maintenance performed. Look for regular oil changes, transmission fluid changes, filter replacements, and specific diesel maintenance like fuel filter changes.
• Condition Assessment:
  • Frame: Inspect for rust, cracks, or signs of accident damage (bends, welds). A strong frame is essential for safety and capacity.
  • Suspension: Check leaf springs for cracks, sagging, or broken leaves. Look at shocks, bushings, and ensure the truck sits level. Airbag helper springs are a common aftermarket addition for heavy haulers.
  • Tires: Dually trucks require six matching tires. Check tread depth, uneven wear (indicating alignment issues), and tire age (stamped on the sidewall, tires older than 6-7 years may need replacement regardless of tread).
  • Brakes: Inspect rotors for warping or deep grooves, and ask about recent brake service.
  • Engine & Transmission: Look for leaks, strange noises, or excessive smoke (for diesels). Check fluid levels and color (e.g., clear, red transmission fluid; not burnt or dark).
  • Driveline: Check universal joints (U-joints) and differential for leaks or excessive play. If 4×4, test engagement.
  • Interior & Exterior: Assess overall wear, rust on body panels, and functionality of all lights, windows, and accessories.
• Title Status: Ensure the title is clear and not salvaged, rebuilt, or flood-damaged, as these can severely impact safety and insurability.

Where to Find Used 350 Dually Trucks For Sale

The market for used 350 dually trucks is broad, offering several avenues for your search:

• Dealerships: Both new truck dealerships (selling trade-ins) and dedicated used car lots often have a selection. They usually offer financing and sometimes warranties, but prices can be higher.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like AutoTrader, Cars.com, eBay Motors, CarGurus, and local platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are excellent for browsing a wide range of private and dealer listings.
• Auction Sites: Commercial auctions (e.g., Ritchie Bros., Manheim, GovDeals for government surplus) can be sources for fleet vehicles, though they often require specialized knowledge and can be "as-is" sales.
• Private Sellers: Buying from a private party can often yield better prices, but it requires more due diligence on your part, as there are typically no warranties.
• Fleet Sales: Companies upgrading their fleets sometimes sell older, well-maintained trucks directly.

The Buying Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Define Your Needs & Budget: Be clear about your minimum towing capacity, preferred engine type, and your absolute maximum budget (including potential repairs, taxes, and registration).
2. Research Models & Common Issues: Once you’ve narrowed down your preferred makes and model years, search online forums and consumer reports for common problems, recalls, and owner experiences.
3. Search & Filter Listings: Use online platforms with robust filters to narrow down by make, model, year, price, mileage, and features (e.g., 4×4, specific bed length).
4. Initial Contact & Questions: When you find a promising listing, contact the seller. Ask about maintenance history, why they’re selling, any known issues, and if the price is negotiable.
5. Vehicle Inspection (DIY Checklist): Before you even start the engine, do a thorough visual inspection using the "Condition Assessment" points mentioned above. Look for rust, leaks, tire condition, and general wear.
6. Test Drive:
   • Start the truck cold if possible. Listen for strange noises.
   • Drive on varying roads (city, highway, hills if possible).
   • Test all gears, brakes, steering, and 4×4 (if applicable).
   • Pay attention to how the engine sounds, how the transmission shifts, and if there are any dashboard warning lights.
   • If possible, test drive with a heavy trailer attached, or at least a significant load in the bed, to simulate your intended use.
7. Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): This is the single most important step. Hire an independent, certified mechanic (preferably one specializing in heavy-duty diesel trucks) to perform a comprehensive inspection. They can identify hidden issues that you might miss, potentially saving you thousands in future repairs.
8. Negotiation: Armed with the PPI report and your research, negotiate the price. Be prepared to walk away if the deal isn’t right.
9. Paperwork & Transfer: Once an agreement is reached, ensure all paperwork is correctly filled out, including the bill of sale, title transfer, and any loan documents.

Common Challenges & Solutions

• Finding a Well-Maintained Truck:
  • Solution: Prioritize listings with detailed maintenance records and always invest in a PPI.
• High Mileage Concerns:
  • Solution: For diesels, focus on the quality of maintenance. Lower mileage doesn’t always mean better condition if neglected. A comprehensive PPI is vital.
• Rust Issues:
  • Solution: Thoroughly inspect the frame, cab corners, and wheel wells. Be especially cautious with trucks from regions that use road salt.
• Emissions System Problems (Newer Diesels):
  • Solution: Be aware of potential costly repairs related to Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems on 2007.5+ diesels. Factor these potential costs into your budget.
• Financing for Older Vehicles:
  • Solution: Banks may be hesitant to finance very old or high-mileage vehicles. Be prepared to pay cash or secure a personal loan.

Estimated Price Range for Used 350 Dually Trucks

Please note that these are estimated price ranges and can vary significantly based on location, mileage, specific trim level, engine condition, 2WD/4WD, and overall vehicle condition.

Make/Model	Year Range	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Factors Influencing Price
Ford F-350 Dually	2005-2010	$15,000 – $30,000	6.0L/6.4L Power Stroke (issues common), 6.7L desirable, 4×4 premium
	2011-2016	$25,000 – $45,000	6.7L Power Stroke reliability, higher trims, Lariat/King Ranch
	2017-2022	$40,000 – $70,000+	Aluminum body, latest tech, low mileage, higher trims, Tremor/Limited
Ram 3500 Dually	2006-2009	$12,000 – $25,000	5.9L Cummins (highly sought after), 6.7L Cummins (emissions)
	2010-2018	$20,000 – $40,000	6.7L Cummins, transmission (68RFE vs. Aisin), Laramie/Longhorn
	2019-2022	$35,000 – $65,000+	Redesigned interior, higher towing, Cummins HO, Limited trim
Chevy Silverado 3500HD / GMC Sierra 3500HD Dually	2007-2010	$15,000 – $28,000	LBZ/LMM Duramax, Allison transmission, common frame rust
	2011-2014	$20,000 – $38,000	LML Duramax, Allison transmission, interior condition
	2015-2019	$30,000 – $50,000	LML/L5P Duramax, improved interior, Denali/High Country trims
	2020-2022	$45,000 – $75,000+	Redesigned, L5P Duramax, higher towing, advanced tech, Denali

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What’s the main difference between a 250 and a 350 dually?
A: A 250 (3/4-ton) is typically a single rear wheel (SRW) truck, while a 350 (1-ton) can be SRW or DRW (dually). The key difference is the 350 dually’s significantly higher Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), allowing it to carry more payload and tow much heavier trailers than a 250.

Q: Is gas or diesel better for a used dually?
A: For consistent heavy towing (e.g., large RVs, commercial equipment), diesel is generally superior due to its torque, longevity, and better fuel economy under load. For occasional, lighter duty hauling or if purchase/maintenance costs are a primary concern, a gas engine might be more economical.

Q: What mileage is too high for a used dually?
A: For a well-maintained diesel engine, 200,000-300,000 miles is not uncommon, and many go much further. The key is maintenance history. For gas engines, anything over 150,000-200,000 miles might warrant more caution unless the price is very low and condition is exceptional.

Q: Do I need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for a dually?
A: Generally, no, if you’re using it for personal, non-commercial use (e.g., towing an RV). A CDL is typically required if the truck’s GVWR or the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of the truck and trailer exceeds certain limits (often 26,001 lbs) and it’s being used for commercial purposes. Always check your state’s specific regulations.

Q: How much does insurance cost for a dually?
A: Insurance costs vary widely based on your location, driving record, the truck’s age, and the coverage you choose. Dually trucks can sometimes be more expensive to insure due to their higher value and potential for larger claims if involved in an accident with a heavy load. It’s best to get a quote before purchasing.

Q: Are dually trucks hard to drive or park?
A: They are wider and longer than regular pickups, which requires more awareness, especially in tight parking lots or city driving. However, with practice, most drivers adapt quickly. Parking can be a challenge, often requiring two standard spots or seeking out larger truck-friendly parking areas.

Conclusion

A used 350 dually truck represents a powerful investment for anyone with serious towing and hauling requirements. By leveraging the significant cost savings of the pre-owned market, you can acquire a highly capable workhorse without the hefty price tag of a new model. However, the path to finding the right used dually is paved with diligent research, thorough inspection, and a clear understanding of your specific needs. With careful consideration of engine type, maintenance history, and a non-negotiable pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, you can confidently navigate the market and drive away with a robust, reliable truck ready to tackle any load you throw its way. The right used dually isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a foundation for your adventures and a work partner you can count on.