All three of the American companies make SRW one-tons now, although Dodge didn't until '03. I don't know when GM started with SRW 1 ton's, but I know that Ford was making them in the '80's...

BTW, my attitude towards Chevy is about the same as your attitude to Ford (added by my anger with them over ruining the U.S. diesel market with the 350 diesel)

That said, when Peter was advising you to get a larger truck, I think he's talking about you getting a medium-duty, such as a Freightliner FL50 or a GMC Kodiak or an IH or an F-650...