Just because the cops don't catch ya don't mean you should. The biggest problem is you'll have the deck 2 sleds, and maybe 1 buddy to start with, then you'll say it's fine and maybe tow a 1 or 2 place with more people in cab, and the weight gets WAY more what it was originally going to be. A 2500 vs a 1500 in MPG empty would be minimal and non existant towing/hauling and take a deck a lot better. I know I wouldn't feel comfortable with that kind of weight on a 1500, i've had my deck loaded on my 3500 and it is a pretty good load for it, stop is increased decently and you can feel the wind for sure. Sure people load decks and then pull a 4 place enclosed with 3500, but again it doesn't mean it's legal or safe! Rememeber that people in cab are payload capacity to, ANY tiny bit of weight is, I don't get why people think payload is only what's in the box!
I don't care what anyone says, air bags DO NOT increase what you can haul, they help you haul what the truck can from the factory. If you can't haul what you want without airbags you shouldn't be hauling it.
You may consider a brake upgrade too. Slotted and drilled rotors, and high friction pads make a BIG difference, even with the stock calipers.
