The Ford F-250 Super Duty is a Class 2 heavy-duty pickup truck produced since 1999 as part of Ford’s Super Duty lineup. It is available in Regular Cab, SuperCab, and Crew Cab body styles across multiple powertrain configurations.
This guide covers Ford F-250 towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, and hitch requirements. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and braking systems under load.
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2025 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty is available with four engine options and supports towing capacities between 17,300 lbs and 23,000 lbs depending on configuration. The highest towing capacity is achieved with the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke diesel and a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.8L V8 gas; 7.3L V8 gas; 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel; 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Up to 22,000 lbs (9,979 kg) – diesel; up to 18,200 lbs (8,255 kg) – 7.3L gas |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) with 6.7L H.O. diesel |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 4,246 lbs (1,926 kg) with 7.3L V8 |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration; consult Ford towing guide |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,820-2,200 lbs (825-998 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (required for maximum ratings) |
The 2025 Ford F-250 offers a maximum towing capacity of 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) when equipped with the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke diesel and a fifth-wheel hitch. The 7.3L gas V8 provides the highest payload capacity at 4,246 lbs (1,926 kg). Selecting the correct engine and tow package is required to achieve maximum-rated towing specifications.
2024 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2024 Ford F-250 follows the fifth-generation Super Duty platform introduced in 2023, offering the same engine lineup with maximum fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing of up to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg). The 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke diesel achieves the highest towing specification in this model year.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.8L V8 gas; 7.3L V8 gas; 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel; 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Up to 22,000 lbs (9,979 kg) – diesel |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 4,260 lbs (1,932 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration; consult Ford towing guide |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,820-2,200 lbs (825-998 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (required for maximum ratings) |
The 2024 Ford F-250 towing capacity reaches 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) with fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch configurations on diesel-equipped models. The available 6.7L Power Stroke diesel provides the highest trailer weight ratings in this generation. Staying within the rated tongue weight limit ensures braking control and drivetrain stability.
2023 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2023 model year marked the beginning of the fifth-generation Ford F-250 Super Duty, introducing the 6.8L V8 as the standard gas engine in place of the 6.2L. Towing capacity ranges from 14,800 lbs (6,713 kg) to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) depending on engine and configuration.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.8L V8 gas (standard); 7.3L V8 gas; 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel; 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Up to 22,000 lbs (9,979 kg) – diesel |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 4,260 lbs (1,932 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,480-2,200 lbs (671-998 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Ford F-250 towing capacity ranges from 14,800 lbs (6,713 kg) to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) across its engine and drivetrain options. Models with the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke diesel and factory tow package achieve the upper trailer weight limit. Cab configuration and bed length also affect the rated towing capacity for this model year.
2022 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2022 Ford F-250 falls within the fourth generation (2017-2022), using the 6.2L gas V8 as the standard engine and offering the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel as an upgrade. Conventional towing capacity ranges from 12,300 lbs (5,579 kg) to 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) depending on cab style, drivetrain, and engine choice.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 gas (standard); 7.3L V8 gas; 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel; 6.7L H.O. Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | 6.2L gas: up to 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg) – Regular Cab 2WD; 6.7L diesel: up to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) with diesel |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 4,260 lbs (1,932 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,230-2,280 lbs (558-1,034 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Ford F-250 towing capacity peaks at 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch. Standard 6.2L gas-powered models offer a maximum conventional towing capacity of 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg) in Regular Cab 2WD configuration. Engine choice is the single largest factor affecting the 2022 F-250 towing limit.
2021 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offers a towing capacity range of 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) across available engine and configuration options. Conventional towing reaches up to 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) with diesel models, while fifth-wheel and gooseneck ratings extend to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg).
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 gas (385 hp, 430 lb-ft); 7.3L V8 gas (430 hp, 475 lb-ft); 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel (475 hp, 1,050 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Up to 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) – gas gooseneck; up to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) – diesel 5th wheel/gooseneck |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 6.2L gas: up to 4,260 lbs (1,932 kg); 6.7L diesel: up to 3,940 lbs (1,787 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,250-2,280 lbs (567-1,034 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Ford F-250 towing capacity reaches a maximum of 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) when equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch. Standard conventional towing starts at 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg) with the gas engine. The aluminum-alloy body construction introduced in this generation reduces curb weight and supports higher payload ratings.
2020 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2020 Ford F-250 uses the same fourth-generation platform as the 2017-2022 lineup and offers towing capacities from 12,300 lbs (5,579 kg) to over 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) depending on configuration. The standard transmission is a TorqShift 6-speed automatic with available 2WD or 4WD.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 gas (385 hp, 430 lb-ft); 7.3L V8 gas; 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel (475 hp, 1,050 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Up to 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg) gas; up to 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) diesel with gooseneck |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 3,380 lbs (1,533 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,230-2,280 lbs (558-1,034 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Ford F-250 towing capacity peaks with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel paired with a factory tow package and gooseneck hitch. Gas-engine models using the 7.3L V8 offer strong conventional towing performance for work and recreational trailers. Selecting 2WD over 4WD typically increases the maximum towing rating for this model year.
2019 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2019 Ford F-250 is part of the fourth generation platform and carries the 6.2L gas V8 as the base engine. The available 6.7L Power Stroke diesel for 2019 produced 450 hp and 935 lb-ft of torque before the mid-cycle output increase applied to the 2020 model.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 gas (385 hp, 430 lb-ft); 7.3L V8 gas; 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel (450 hp, 935 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | 6.2L gas: up to 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg); 6.7L diesel: up to approx. 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) with diesel |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to approx. 4,200 lbs (1,905 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,230-2,280 lbs (558-1,034 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Ford F-250 towing capacity with the 6.7L diesel is rated up to 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) in fifth-wheel and gooseneck configurations. The 2019 diesel produced slightly lower output than the updated 2020 variant, with 450 hp and 935 lb-ft of torque. Proper axle ratio selection is necessary to achieve maximum trailer weight ratings for this model year.
2017-2018 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity
The 2017 model year started the fourth-generation F-250, introducing extensive use of high-strength aluminum alloy in the body structure. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel delivers the highest towing capacity across 2017 and 2018 models.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 gas (385 hp, 430 lb-ft); 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | 6.2L gas: up to 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg); 6.7L diesel: up to approx. 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 21,000 lbs (9,525 kg) with diesel and proper equipment |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to approx. 4,200 lbs (1,905 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,300-2,100 lbs (590-953 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017-2018 Ford F-250 towing capacity with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel and factory tow package provides the highest trailer weight limits for this two-year span. Aluminum body construction in this generation reduced curb weight and contributed to improved towing and payload efficiency. Engine configuration remains the primary factor determining maximum towing specifications in these model years.
2011-2016 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity (Third Generation)
The third-generation Ford F-250 (2011-2016) introduced the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine, which replaced the 6.4L unit used in prior years. Towing capacity for this generation ranges from 11,800 lbs (5,352 kg) to 16,800 lbs (7,620 kg).
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.2L V8 gas; 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel (2011+) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Gas: up to approx. 13,000 lbs (5,897 kg); Diesel: up to 16,800 lbs (7,620 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 16,800 lbs (7,620 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to approx. 3,800 lbs (1,724 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 1,180-1,680 lbs (535-762 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2011-2016 Ford F-250 towing capacity reaches a maximum of approximately 16,800 lbs (7,620 kg) with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel in 2WD regular cab configuration. Enhanced frame strength and revised suspension components in this generation improved towing stability compared to the previous generation. Diesel-equipped 2WD models consistently produced the highest towing specifications during this period.
2008-2010 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity (Second Generation)
The second-generation F-250 (2008-2010) introduced the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engine along with updated chassis and suspension systems. Towing capacity for this generation ranges from approximately 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg).
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.4L V8 gas; 6.8L V10 gas; 6.4L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Gas V10: up to approx. 13,000 lbs (5,897 kg); 6.4L diesel: up to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) with diesel |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to approx. 3,200 lbs (1,451 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 950-1,600 lbs (431-726 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2008-2010 Ford F-250 towing capacity peaks at 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) with the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel and appropriate towing equipment. Updated chassis components in this generation provided improved stability for heavy trailer weight ratings. Gas-powered models using the 6.8L V10 offer a viable alternative when diesel is not selected.
1999-2007 Ford F-250 Towing Capacity (First Generation)
The first-generation Ford F-250 Super Duty debuted in 1999 and offered multiple powertrain options including a 5.4L V8, 6.8L V10, 7.3L Power Stroke diesel (1999-2003), and 6.0L Power Stroke diesel (2003-2007). Towing capacity for this generation ranges from approximately 6,800 lbs (3,084 kg) to 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg).
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.4L V8 gas; 6.8L V10 gas; 7.3L Power Stroke diesel (1999-2003); 6.0L Power Stroke diesel (2003-2007) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Conventional) | Gas V10: up to approx. 13,000 lbs (5,897 kg); 7.3L diesel: up to 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg); 6.0L diesel: up to approx. 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) with diesel and proper equipment |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to approx. 2,900 lbs (1,315 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Approx. 680-1,650 lbs (308-748 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 1999-2007 Ford F-250 towing capacity reaches its upper limit with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel, which was rated up to 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) with proper equipment and axle ratio. Towing capacity varied based on engine choice, drivetrain, and axle ratio selection in this generation. The 6.0L diesel models, particularly those with dual rear wheels and factory tow packages, delivered the highest capacities for 2003-2007 model years.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Achieving the rated towing capacity requires more than just engine output. The full towing system must be properly configured to match the trailer weight and type.
Factory Tow Package
The factory tow package on the F-250 typically includes an integrated trailer brake controller, upgraded cooling, a heavy-duty trailer hitch receiver, and wiring harness. Without the tow package, maximum towing specifications listed by the manufacturer cannot be achieved. The tow package is required equipment for Class V hitch ratings on F-250 models.
Trailer Brake Controller
Any trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating above a threshold specified by law requires an active trailer brake controller. Ford integrates a brake controller into F-250 models equipped with the tow package. The controller modulates trailer brakes in proportion to vehicle deceleration, reducing stopping distance and drivetrain stress.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch redistributes tongue weight from the rear axle of the tow vehicle across all axles. This system is recommended for conventional trailer towing when tongue weight exceeds the rear axle load rating. Proper weight distribution improves braking control and reduces trailer sway.
Transmission and Drivetrain Cooling
Extended towing under load generates heat in the transmission fluid and differential. The F-250 tow package includes an auxiliary transmission cooler on applicable configurations. Running without adequate cooling increases the risk of transmission failure under sustained heavy towing.
Tire Load Ratings
All tires must meet or exceed the load index required by the loaded vehicle configuration. The F-250 uses LT-metric tires rated for heavy-duty loads. Using passenger-rated or light-load tires on a vehicle towing at maximum capacity is not permitted.
Trailer Sway Control
The F-250 uses electronic trailer sway control as part of its stability management system. This feature applies individual wheel braking to counteract trailer oscillation. Trailer sway control operates through the same module as the ABS and traction control systems.
Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Normal Towing (Under 10,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (Over 10,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Type | Class III or IV ball mount | Class V with weight distribution or fifth-wheel |
| Trailer Brakes | Recommended | Required |
| Transmission Cooler | Standard cooler sufficient | Auxiliary cooler recommended |
| Tire Load Rating | LT-rated standard tires | Maximum load-rated LT tires required |
| Brake Controller | Integrated or aftermarket | Integrated factory controller required |
| Tongue Weight Management | Standard ball mount adequate | Weight-distributing hitch required for conventional towing |
FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ford F-250?
The maximum Ford F-250 towing capacity is 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg), available on 2023 and newer models with the 6.7L High-Output Power Stroke diesel and a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch. Earlier fourth-generation models (2017-2022) reached a maximum of 22,800 lbs (10,341 kg) with the diesel engine. Maximum towing capacity requires the factory tow package and proper equipment selection.
How much can a Ford F-250 tow with a tow package?
A properly equipped Ford F-250 with the factory tow package and the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel can tow up to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) on 2025 models. Gas-engine models with the tow package reach up to 18,200 lbs (8,255 kg) with the 7.3L V8 on 2025 configurations. Without the tow package, the rated trailer weight limit is reduced significantly.
Does 4WD affect Ford F-250 towing capacity?
Yes, 4WD configuration typically reduces the maximum towing capacity compared to 2WD configurations on the same engine. Regular Cab 2WD models with diesel engines consistently produce the highest towing specifications in each model year. The additional weight of the 4WD transfer case and front differential reduces the available payload and GCWR.
What trailer weight is safe for a Ford F-250?
Safe trailer weight for a Ford F-250 depends on the specific model year, engine, drivetrain, and installed equipment. As a general rule, the loaded trailer weight should not exceed the manufacturer-rated towing capacity listed on the vehicle’s tow guide or door jamb sticker. Tongue weight should remain between 10% and 15% of total trailer weight for conventional hitch setups.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ford F-250?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when conventional trailer towing approaches or exceeds 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg) on the F-250. This type of hitch transfers a portion of tongue weight from the rear axle to the front axle, improving steering and braking control. Fifth-wheel and gooseneck setups achieve high towing capacities without a weight-distributing hitch due to the pin weight loading directly over the rear axle.
What hitch class does the Ford F-250 use?
The Ford F-250 uses a Class V hitch receiver, which supports the highest conventional towing weight ratings among standard receiver hitch classes. Class V receivers are rated for tongue weights up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) or higher depending on the specific hitch and vehicle configuration. For fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing, a purpose-specific hitch mounted in the truck bed is required.
Conclusion
Ford F-250 towing capacity spans from approximately 6,800 lbs (3,084 kg) on early first-generation gasoline models to 23,000 lbs (10,433 kg) on current diesel-equipped configurations with fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitches. Configuration choices including engine type, cab style, drivetrain, and axle ratio determine which towing specification applies to a specific vehicle.
The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine consistently provides the highest towing specifications across all generations of the F-250. Gas-engine models, particularly the 7.3L V8 on 2023 and newer trucks, offer a capable alternative for operators who do not require maximum trailer weight capacity. The factory tow package is a required option for reaching any of the maximum-rated towing limits published by the manufacturer.
Towing within the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) protects the engine, transmission, frame, and braking components from overload conditions. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual or the Ford towing guide for the specific model year before towing heavy loads.
