Ford F-350 Towing Capacity: 2025 Specs, Engines, And Payload

When it comes to heavy-duty hauling, few names carry as much weight—literally and figuratively—as the Ford F-350 Super Duty. This truck isn’t just a workhorse; it’s a carefully engineered towing machine built for contractors, RV enthusiasts, ranchers, and anyone who regularly pulls massive loads. If you’ve been searching for the real numbers behind the ford f350 towing capacity, this guide will give you more than just a spec sheet. You’ll get the facts, context, and some real-world insight into what those numbers mean when you’re actually on the road.

Key Points:

• Towing capacity ranges from 18,700 lbs to 37,000 lbs in the U.S.
• Highest rating comes with the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke Diesel + gooseneck hitch.
• Payload can reach 8,000 lbs in certain configurations.
• Factors like engine, hitch type, drivetrain, and market regulations affect numbers.

Why the Ford F-350 Is a Towing Powerhouse

The F-350 sits in the middle of Ford’s Super Duty lineup—between the F-250 and the F-450—but in many configurations, it outperforms them both in payload capacity. This is thanks to its robust frame, available dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setup, and powerful engine choices. Unlike half-ton pickups that might max out at 14,000 lbs, the F-350 comfortably pulls weights in the high 20,000s and even over 30,000 lbs when equipped correctly.

This truck isn’t for the occasional tow of a weekend boat; it’s built for hauling horse trailers, massive fifth-wheel RVs, or heavy construction equipment. If you’re shopping with ford f350 towing capacity in mind, you need to understand that there’s no single “one-size” number—your setup determines your limits.

Ford F-350 Towing Capacity by Year and Engine

Quick Reference Chart (2016–2025)

The following table summarizes maximum towing capacities based on available U.S. market data for the past decade. This makes it easy to compare changes in capability over time.

Table 1 – Ford F-350 Maximum Towing Capacities (U.S. Specs)

Engine Options and Their Towing Ratings

Ford offers multiple engine choices for the F-350, and each brings different strengths:

• 6.8L Gas V8 – 405 hp / 445 lb-ft; best for those who prioritize payload and lower upfront cost. Max towing: 18,900 lbs.
• 7.3L Gas V8 – 430 hp / 485 lb-ft; offers a good balance between towing power and long-term durability. Max towing: 18,900 lbs.
• 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel V8 – 475 hp / 1,050 lb-ft; serious pulling power, better fuel economy under load. Max gooseneck tow: 32,600 lbs.
• 6.7L High-Output Diesel V8 – 500 hp / 1,200 lb-ft; the king of the lineup. Max gooseneck tow: 32,900–37,000 lbs depending on configuration.

U.S. vs Australian Ford F-350 Towing Specs

Table 2 – U.S. vs Australia (Selected Configurations)

Australian figures are lower largely because of Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) regulations and the extra weight added during right-hand-drive conversion. Still, even at 27,000 lbs, the Australian F-350 dwarfs the towing capabilities of most vehicles on the road there.

Factors That Affect the Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

Several variables change how much you can safely tow:

• Engine choice – The high-output diesel delivers maximum torque and best ratings.
• Cab configuration – Regular Cab often offers higher towing vs. Crew Cab due to lower weight.
• Drivetrain – 4×2 variants sometimes have slightly higher capacities than 4x4s.
• Hitch type – Gooseneck and fifth-wheel systems allow for the highest loads.
• Payload weight – Passengers, tools, and gear reduce available towing headroom.

What You Can Tow with a Ford F-350

Depending on configuration, you could comfortably handle:

• A 40-foot fifth-wheel RV (~20,000–25,000 lbs loaded).
• Fully loaded horse trailer with 4–6 horses (~16,000–18,000 lbs).
• Construction skid steer or excavator on a flatbed (~12,000–20,000 lbs).
• Large offshore fishing boat with trailer (~15,000 lbs).

Real-World Owner Experience

One long-haul RV owner shared that with a 6.7L HO diesel F-350 DRW, pulling a 38-foot fifth-wheel from Texas to Montana was “surprisingly stress-free.” Even in steep grades, the integrated exhaust brake and Tow/Haul mode kept the rig stable without excessive downshifting. Fuel economy under load averaged 9–10 mpg—impressive for the weight being moved.

Towing Technology & Safety Features

Ford equips the F-350 with advanced features designed for big loads:

• Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ – Simplifies trailer reversing.
• Tow/Haul Mode with integrated exhaust brake – Improves control on steep descents.
• Trailer Sway Control – Helps maintain stability in crosswinds.
• Onboard Scales – Lets you see your payload weight in real time.
• 360° Camera Systems – Makes hitching and maneuvering easier.

Tips to Maximize Your Ford F-350 Towing Performance

• Pick the right hitch for your trailer type—conventional, fifth-wheel, or gooseneck.
• Keep tongue weight within 10–15% of total trailer weight for stability.
• Perform regular maintenance on brakes, cooling, and transmission systems.
• Use Ford’s official towing guide for your model year to ensure compliance with all limits.

FAQs

What is the max towing capacity of a Ford F-350?
The Ford F-350 can tow between 18,700 lbs and 37,000 lbs in the U.S., depending on configuration, with the highest ratings achieved by the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke Diesel using a gooseneck hitch.

Which Ford F-350 engine is best for towing?
The 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke Diesel is best for maximum towing capacity, offering 500 horsepower, 1,200 lb-ft of torque, and up to 37,000 lbs towing capability.

Can an F-350 tow 40,000 pounds?
No, the F-350 tops out around 37,000 lbs in the U.S. For 40,000 lbs towing, you’d need to move up to the Ford F-450.

What’s the difference between F-250 and F-350 towing capacity?
While both share engines, the F-350 can tow more due to its heavier-duty suspension and availability of a dual-rear-wheel configuration, which increases stability and load limits.