Difference between the RAM 2500 and 3500.

The 1/2 ton works, barely. Go thru Raton pass , (10,000 ft elevation.and all the brakes in the world on the trailer won't matter. On the flats if one keeps the speed down, the 1/2 will get by. 50% load to capacity is safe. 90%, it is an accident waiting to happen.
I do hope your current conditions Improve. It sounds like moving west is In your interest.