need info on 1987 chevy 4x4 1-ton conversion to dually

I need some guidance on what is the differences in a 1987 4x4 1 -ton chevy single wheel truck and the same truck as a dually.  Im looking to convert the rear to a dually and know I can do it with an adapter.  Is this advisable?  Would this really help me with alot of additional weight Im needing to haul around?  Is this the only differnce between the single and dually for this truck?  Are steel rims stronger than aluminum rims for the heavy loads?  Ive been asking around and it seems nobody knows for sure.  I would appriciate any help.  Thanks