Ford F-350 Towing Capacity (All Years 2005-2026)

Rebbeca Jones

Rebbeca Jones

The Ford F-350 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck produced since 1999 as part of Ford’s Super Duty line. It is available in Regular Cab, SuperCab, and Crew Cab body styles with single rear wheel (SRW) and dual rear wheel (DRW) configurations across multiple powertrain options. This guide covers year-by-year towing specifications from 2005 to 2026, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, and hitch requirements by configuration.

Towing capacity varies based on engine selection, drivetrain type, axle ratio, cab style, and bed length. Following manufacturer-rated limits protects the engine, transmission, frame, and braking systems from overload damage.

Ford F Towing Capacity

2026 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.8L V8 (405 hp), 7.3L V8 (430 hp), 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (475 hp), 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (500 hp)
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity37,000 lbs (16,783 kg) — DRW, H.O. diesel, gooseneck
Conventional Towing Capacity25,000 lbs (11,340 kg) — SRW; up to 28,000 lbs (12,701 kg) — DRW
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity27,600 lbs (12,519 kg) SRW; up to 37,000 lbs (16,783 kg) DRW
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) — DRW configuration
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 43,000 lbs (19,504 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2026 Ford F-350 reaches a maximum gooseneck towing rating of 37,000 lbs when paired with the H.O. Power Stroke turbo diesel and a DRW chassis. The 6.7L H.O. diesel and 7.3L V8 configurations offer the widest range of trailer weight ratings across cab and bed combinations. Axle ratio selection directly impacts achievable towing capacity, with a 3.55:1 or 4.30:1 ratio required for maximum ratings.


2025 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.8L V8 (405 hp), 7.3L V8 (430 hp), 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (475 hp), 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (500 hp)
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity38,000 lbs (17,237 kg) — DRW, H.O. diesel, gooseneck
Conventional Towing Capacity24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) SRW; 28,000 lbs (12,701 kg) DRW — H.O. diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity27,600 lbs (12,519 kg) SRW; up to 38,000 lbs (17,237 kg) DRW
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) — DRW, 6.8L V8
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 46,000 lbs (20,865 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,400 lbs (1,089 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2025 Ford F-350 achieves a maximum fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing capacity of 38,000 lbs when equipped with the H.O. Power Stroke diesel and DRW configuration. DRW models with the 6.8L V8 reach a maximum payload of 8,000 lbs, the highest in the F-350 lineup. Conventional towing ratings reach 28,000 lbs with the DRW H.O. diesel in specific cab and wheelbase combinations.


2024 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.8L V8, 7.3L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8, 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (500 hp)
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD (4WD standard on XLT and above)
Maximum Towing Capacity27,600 lbs (12,519 kg) — H.O. diesel, fifth-wheel/gooseneck
Conventional Towing Capacity23,200 lbs (10,523 kg) standard diesel; 25,000 lbs (11,340 kg) H.O. diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity23,800 lbs (10,796 kg) standard diesel; 27,600 lbs (12,519 kg) H.O. diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) — DRW configuration
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 35,200 lbs (15,966 kg)
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2024 Ford F-350 with the 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke diesel offers a maximum conventional towing capacity of 25,000 lbs. The F-350 Limited trim with the H.O. diesel is rated for a 27,000 lb fifth-wheel/gooseneck capacity. A TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission is standard across all 2024 engine configurations.


2023 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.8L V8 (new for this generation), 7.3L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8, 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity27,500 lbs (12,474 kg) — DRW diesel, fifth-wheel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) — diesel, properly equipped
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 27,500 lbs (12,474 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 7,850 lbs (3,561 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 34,000 lbs (15,422 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,100 lbs (953 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2023 model year marked the launch of the fourth-generation Ford Super Duty platform, introducing the 6.8L V8 gasoline engine as a replacement for the 6.2L V8. The 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke diesel provides the highest towing ratings in the 2023 lineup. Towing limits depend on axle ratio, cab configuration, and whether a factory tow package is installed.


2022 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.7L V8 Gasoline, 7.3L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — conventional; up to 35,750 lbs (16,217 kg) — DRW diesel, gooseneck
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — diesel, SRW
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 35,750 lbs (16,217 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 7,850 lbs (3,561 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 43,000 lbs (19,504 kg) — DRW diesel
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,120 lbs (962 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2022 Ford F-350 was the final year of the third-generation Super Duty platform. Models equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and DRW chassis achieve the highest gooseneck ratings in this generation. Engine, axle ratio, and gross combined weight rating (GCWR) determine the upper limits for each specific build.


2021 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.7L V8 Gasoline, 7.3L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) conventional; up to 35,750 lbs (16,217 kg) DRW gooseneck
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 35,750 lbs (16,217 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 7,850 lbs (3,561 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 43,000 lbs (19,504 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,120 lbs (962 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2021 Ford F-350 carries the same powertrain lineup as the 2020 model, with the 7.3L V8 gasoline engine available in both years. Gooseneck towing with DRW diesel configurations reaches peak numbers in this generation. The factory-installed trailer brake controller and Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC) are available on most trim levels.


2020 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.7L V8 Gasoline, 7.3L V8 (new for 2020), 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) conventional; up to 35,750 lbs (16,217 kg) DRW gooseneck
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 35,750 lbs (16,217 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 7,850 lbs (3,561 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 43,000 lbs (19,504 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,120 lbs (962 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2020 Ford F-350 introduced the 7.3L V8 gasoline engine, which produces 430 hp and 485 lb-ft of torque. This engine expanded the gasoline-powered towing range compared to the outgoing 6.7L V8 gasoline unit. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel remains the top-rated engine for towing capacity in the 2020 F-350 lineup.


2019 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) conventional; up to 32,500 lbs (14,742 kg) DRW gooseneck
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) — diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 32,500 lbs (14,742 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 40,000 lbs (18,144 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,100 lbs (953 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2019 Ford F-350 reaches a maximum conventional towing rating of 21,000 lbs when properly equipped with the diesel engine and factory tow package. DRW configurations significantly increase fifth-wheel and gooseneck capacity above SRW ratings. Gross combined weight rating governs the total allowable weight of the truck plus trailer for each build.


2018 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) — DRW diesel, conventional
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) — DRW diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 27,500 lbs (12,474 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 28,600 lbs (12,973 kg) — SRW diesel
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,100 lbs (953 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2018 Ford F-350 with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and DRW configuration reaches a maximum fifth-wheel towing capacity of 27,500 lbs. Axle ratio selection between 3.31:1, 3.55:1, and 4.10:1 directly affects the achievable trailer weight limit per configuration. The 6.2L V8 gasoline engine provides lower towing ratings than the diesel across all cab and bed combinations.


2017 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) — DRW diesel, conventional
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) — DRW diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 27,500 lbs (12,474 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 40,000 lbs (18,144 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,100 lbs (953 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2017 Ford F-350 launched the third-generation Super Duty with revised frame construction and updated axle options. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel remained the highest-rated engine for towing capacity, particularly in DRW configurations. Proper axle ratio and tow package selection are required to access the published maximum trailer weight ratings.


2016 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — DRW diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 26,500 lbs (12,020 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 6,690 lbs (3,034 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 40,000 lbs (18,144 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,120 lbs (962 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2016 Ford F-350 with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel offers a towing range of 12,500 to 26,500 lbs depending on configuration. The 6.2L V8 models have a lower ceiling compared to diesel configurations in all axle setups. Fifth-wheel capacity reaches 26,500 lbs on DRW diesel variants with the appropriate axle ratio.


2015 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 21,200 lbs (9,616 kg) — DRW diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 26,500 lbs (12,020 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 6,690 lbs (3,034 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 40,000 lbs (18,144 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 2,120 lbs (962 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2015 Ford F-350 uses a second-generation 6.7L Power Stroke diesel with an upgraded Garrett GT37 turbocharger compared to earlier 2011-2014 models. Towing specifications are consistent with the 2016 model year across most configurations. Engine exhaust braking is standard with the diesel engine to improve downgrade control when towing heavy trailers.


2014 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity16,800 lbs (7,620 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 16,800 lbs (7,620 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 24,600 lbs (11,158 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 5,450 lbs (2,472 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 35,000 lbs (15,876 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,680 lbs (762 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2014 Ford F-350 uses the first-generation 6.7L Power Stroke diesel with the Garrett GT32 turbocharger unit. Towing capacity at this stage of the second generation was lower than the post-2015 refresh models due to differences in calibration and axle options. Payload capacity also differs from later model years due to frame and suspension revisions in 2015.


2013 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity16,800 lbs (7,620 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) — SRW 4WD specific config
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 24,600 lbs (11,158 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 5,880 lbs (2,667 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 34,000 lbs (15,422 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,680 lbs (762 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2013 Ford F-350 with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel introduced a payload increase over earlier second-generation years, reaching up to 5,880 lbs. Conventional towing capacity on SRW 4WD configurations is rated at up to 14,000 lbs on specific trim and axle combinations. DRW diesel variants access the full range of towing limits for this generation.


2012 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity16,800 lbs (7,620 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg) — DRW diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 26,600 lbs (12,066 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 5,260 lbs (2,386 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 34,000 lbs (15,422 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,750 lbs (794 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2012 Ford F-350 Super Duty with the 6.7L diesel and DRW configuration handles conventional trailers up to 17,500 lbs and fifth-wheel trailers up to 26,600 lbs when properly equipped. Payload capacity increased slightly from the 2011 model year. The 6.2L V8 gasoline engine is suitable for lighter towing duties with lower trailer weight limits.


2011 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options6.2L V8, 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (first year)
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity16,800 lbs (7,620 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) — SRW 4WD per Edmunds
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 24,600 lbs (11,158 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 4,920 lbs (2,232 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 33,000 lbs (14,969 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,680 lbs (762 kg)
Hitch ClassClass V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2011 Ford F-350 marked the debut of the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, which replaced the 6.4L unit. The first-generation 6.7L used a Garrett GT32 single turbocharger with a compacted graphite iron block. SRW 4WD crew cab configurations are rated for up to 14,000 lbs of conventional towing with specific axle and tow package combinations.


2010 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options5.4L V8, 6.8L V10, 6.4L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity24,400 lbs (11,067 kg) — DRW diesel, fifth-wheel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 18,900 lbs (8,573 kg) — DRW diesel
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 24,700 lbs (11,204 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 5,800 lbs (2,631 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 33,000 lbs (14,969 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,890 lbs (857 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV / V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2010 Ford F-350 uses the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel as the top-rated towing engine in this generation. This engine was known for high output but required a diesel particulate filter that added complexity to maintenance. DRW configurations with the 6.4L diesel and 4.30:1 axle ratio access the highest towing ratings for the 2010 model year.


2009 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options5.4L V8, 6.8L V10, 6.4L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) — SRW diesel 4WD fifth-wheel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 14,500 lbs (6,577 kg) — 6.8L V10 DRW
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) — 6.4L diesel DRW 4WD
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 3,760 lbs (1,705 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 28,000 lbs (12,701 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,830 lbs (830 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV / V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2009 Ford F-350 with the 6.4L diesel and 4WD DRW configuration offers a fifth-wheel towing capacity of up to 18,300 lbs with the factory tow package. The 5.4L V8 engine is rated for up to 10,800 lbs on fifth-wheel applications in DRW 4WD form. Axle ratio and cab style determine the specific towing limits for each build within this generation.


2008 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options5.4L V8, 6.8L V10, 6.4L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (first year)
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) — DRW diesel 4WD
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 16,600 lbs (7,530 kg) — DRW V10
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) — DRW diesel 4WD
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 26,000 lbs (11,793 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,830 lbs (830 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV / V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2008 Ford F-350 introduced the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel, replacing the outgoing 6.0L unit from the previous generation. The 6.8L V10 gasoline engine provides a competitive conventional towing rating in this generation, particularly in DRW 2WD configurations. Payload ratings vary with cab style and equipment installed at the factory.


2007 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options5.4L V8, 6.8L V10, 6.0L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity17,800 lbs (8,074 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 17,800 lbs (8,074 kg) — 6.0L diesel DRW
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,780 lbs (807 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV / V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2007 Ford F-350 with the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel is the final year of that engine in the F-350. The 6.8L V10 gasoline engine provides similar conventional towing ratings to the diesel in many configurations. Towing limits in this generation are lower than post-2011 models due to differences in platform, suspension, and powertrain output.


2006 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options5.4L V8, 6.8L V10, 6.0L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity17,800 lbs (8,074 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 17,800 lbs (8,074 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 4,700 lbs (2,132 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,780 lbs (807 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV / V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2006 Ford F-350 towing specifications align with the 2007 model year, as both use the first-generation Super Duty frame and the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel. Fifth-wheel applications require a specific high-capacity trailer tow package to access maximum ratings. The 6.8L V10 is an alternative to diesel for buyers seeking gasoline-powered towing in this generation.


2005 Ford F-350 Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options5.4L V8, 6.8L V10, 6.0L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity17,800 lbs (8,074 kg) — DRW diesel
Conventional Towing CapacityUp to 17,800 lbs (8,074 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityUp to 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) — DRW diesel
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 4,700 lbs (2,132 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) estimated
Tongue Weight LimitUp to 1,780 lbs (807 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV / V
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2005 Ford F-350 with the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel and DRW chassis provides the highest trailer weight rating in this model year. Wheelbase affects the specific towing limits, with longer wheelbase models sometimes rated slightly lower due to weight distribution requirements. Factory tow package installation is required to reach the published maximum towing capacity figures in this generation.


Towing Equipment and Setup

Proper equipment is required to safely operate a Ford F-350 at or near its rated towing limits. The following setup components apply to heavy towing applications.

Tow Package

The factory tow package typically includes a heavy-duty receiver hitch, trailer wiring harness, upgraded cooling circuits, and revised transmission programming. Without the tow package, the published maximum towing capacity cannot be reached. Aftermarket tow packages do not replicate factory specifications.

Trailer Brake Controller

A trailer brake controller is required by law in most jurisdictions when towing trailers over a certain weight. The Ford F-350 supports an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC) on most trim levels. This system modulates trailer brakes in proportion to truck deceleration.

Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing hitch transfers a portion of tongue weight from the rear axle to the front and trailer axles. This is recommended for trailers with tongue weights above 10 percent of the total trailer weight. It improves steering response and braking control on conventional hitched loads.

Transmission Cooler

Towing places sustained thermal load on the transmission fluid. The factory tow package on the F-350 includes an upgraded transmission cooler for this purpose. External transmission cooler upgrades are available for extended high-load applications.

Tire Load Ratings

Tire load index must match or exceed the combined weight of the vehicle and cargo on each axle. DRW configurations use two rear tires per side to increase rear axle load capacity. Proper inflation pressure must be maintained according to the tire placard.

Trailer Sway Control

Trailer sway control uses the truck’s stability control system to detect and correct trailer sway events. This feature is active when the factory Trailer Sway Control (TSC) setting is engaged. It reduces throttle and applies selective braking to stabilize an oscillating trailer.

Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup

ComponentNormal TowingHeavy Towing
Hitch TypeClass III ball hitchClass V fifth-wheel or gooseneck
Brake ControllerOptional below thresholdRequired
Weight DistributionNot required below 10% TWRecommended for conventional towing
Transmission CoolerFactory standardFactory and supplemental cooler
Axle Ratio3.31:1 or 3.55:13.55:1, 4.10:1, or 4.30:1
Tire RatingStandard loadUpgraded load index or DRW

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ford F-350?

The maximum towing capacity of a Ford F-350 is 38,000 lbs (17,237 kg) in the 2025 model year, achieved with the H.O. 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine in a DRW gooseneck configuration. This figure requires a specific cab, wheelbase, axle ratio, and factory tow package combination. Not all F-350 builds reach this rating.

How much can a Ford F-350 tow with a tow package?

A Ford F-350 with the factory tow package and the H.O. 6.7L Power Stroke diesel can tow up to 38,000 lbs via gooseneck on 2025 models. On 2024 models, the equivalent maximum is 27,600 lbs fifth-wheel with the H.O. diesel. Without the factory tow package, maximum ratings cannot be reached.

Does 4WD affect Ford F-350 towing capacity?

Four-wheel drive (4WD) adds drivetrain weight, which reduces the available payload and can reduce the maximum towing capacity in some configurations. Certain maximum towing ratings on the F-350 are achievable only in 2WD configurations due to GCWR limits. The towing guide for each model year specifies which cab, drive type, and axle ratio combination yields the highest rating.

What trailer weight is safe for a Ford F-350?

The safe trailer weight for a Ford F-350 depends on the specific model year, engine, drivetrain, and configuration. The trailer tongue weight must stay within 10 to 15 percent of the total trailer weight. Load must be distributed evenly and must not push the truck beyond its rated GCWR.

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ford F-350?

A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when the trailer tongue weight exceeds 10 percent of the total trailer weight or when the rear of the truck sags noticeably during hookup. It is particularly useful for conventional ball hitch towing near the upper weight limits. Fifth-wheel and gooseneck setups distribute load differently and do not use a weight-distributing hitch.

What hitch class is required for a Ford F-350?

The Ford F-350 uses a Class V receiver hitch on most configurations equipped with the factory tow package. Class V hitches are rated for tongue weights of 1,700 lbs or more and gross trailer weights above 17,000 lbs. Class IV hitches may appear on lower-trim or non-tow-package builds in earlier model years.


Conclusion

The Ford F-350 towing capacity ranges from approximately 10,000 lbs on base gasoline configurations in early model years to a maximum of 38,000 lbs on 2025 DRW diesel gooseneck setups. Engine selection, axle ratio, cab style, and rear wheel configuration determine where a specific build falls within that range. The 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke diesel consistently provides the highest trailer weight ratings across all recent model years. From 2011 onward, the F-350 shifted fully to the 6.7L Power Stroke platform, with significant increases in payload and towing following the 2017 and 2023 generation refreshes. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual before towing heavy loads.

Rebbeca Jones
About the author
Rebbeca Jones
Rebbeca Jones leads the detailing department at CarsCounsel, bringing 12 years of experience in automotive aesthetics.

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