Ford F-350 Towing And Payload Guide: How Much Can It Haul?
The Ford F-350 towing capacity of 38,000 pounds when using a gooseneck hitch is impressive,1 and that's just one of its two worksite-ready specifications. With a payload limit of 8,000 pounds,2 it's also a capable hauler – though different wheel sizes and configurations can lower your haul rating significantly.
So, how does F-350 diesel towing compare to gas, and how much can you expect your F-350 to carry depending on engine, body style, and wheel size? At McGee Ford of Montpelier, we'll walk through the best configurations for towing capacity so you can make an informed decision.
Ford Super Duty Towing & Payload at a Glance
- The 6.7-liter high-output turbocharged diesel V-8 has the highest towing capacity due to its exceptional F-350 engine power, at 38,000 pounds with a gooseneck hitch of 28,000 pounds conventionally.1
- For payload, the standard 6.8-liter V-8 engine is a fantastic choice, letting you pick up a 4x4 Super Crew DRW with a 8,000-pound payload rating.2
- Two other engines (6.7-liter turbo diesel V-8 and 7.3-liter V-8) serve as middle grounds between these extremes.
- Different trim levels and wheels may have some impact on the car's towing and payload capacities, due to additional features and add-ons.
F-350 Tow Specs, Explained
If you're going to shop for a new Ford F-350 for sale, knowing your vehicle's configuration is key to understanding its towing capacity. The most influential factors in towing are twofold: engine and configuration. Here are the best configurations for towing capacity:
| Model | Engine | Best Axle Ratio | Best GCWR | Best Configuration (Conventional) | Towing Capacity (Conventional)1 | Best Configuration (5th-Wheel/Goosneck) | Towing Capacity (5th-Wheel/Gooseneck)1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| F-350 SRW | 6.7L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 3.31 or 3.55 | 31,000 lbs |
| 23,200 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 23,700 lbs |
| 6.7L H.O. V-8 Turbo Diesel | 3.55 | 35,200 lbs | Crew Cab 4x4 175.9-in WB 8-ft box | 25,000 lbs | Regular Cab 4x4 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 27,400 lbs | |
| 6.8L V-8 | 4.3 | 24,400 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 18,100 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 17,900 lbs | |
| 7.3L V-8 | 4.3 | 29,000 lbs |
| 19,500 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 22,300 lbs | |
| F-350 DRW | 6.7L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 3.55 or 4.1 |
|
| 27,000 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 36,300 lbs |
| 6.7L H.O. V-8 Turbo Diesel | 4.1 | 45,600 lbs |
| 28,000 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 38,000 lbs | |
| 6.8L V-8 | 4.3 | 25,400 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 18,700 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 18,900 lbs | |
| 7.3L V-8 | 4.3 | 29,500 lbs |
| 22,000 lbs | Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-in WB 8-ft box | 22,500 lbs |
Your trim levels will adjust your GCWR slightly, due to add-ons and features that increase your curb weight. In order from least to most impact, these trims may adjust your towing ability:
- XL
- XLT
- Lariat
- King Ranch
- Platinum
F-350 Payload Overview
Towing is a critical part of the work you can do when leasing a Ford F-350, but a high payload rating can let you hold equipment, heavy-duty machinery, and debris. If your worksite needs payload limits just as much as Ford F-350 towing capacity, here's what you can expect.
| Model | Engine | Best Tires | Best Configuration | Payload Capacity2 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | F-350 SRW | 6.7L V-8 Turbo Diesel | 18-in/20-in All Terrain Tires | 4x4 Regular Cab 141.5-in WB | 4,859 lbs |
| 6.7L H.O. V-8 Turbo Diesel | 18-in/20-in All Terrain Tires | 4x4 Regular Cab 141.5-in WB | 4,844 lbs | ||
| 6.8L V-8 | 18-in/20-in All Terrain Tires | 4x4 Super Cab 164.1-in WB | 5,137 lbs | ||
| 7.3L V-8 | 18-in/20-in All Terrain Tires | 4x4 Regular Cab 141.5-in WB | 4,928 lbs | ||
 | F-350 DRW | 6.7L V-8 Turbo Diesel | Standard | 4x2 Regular Cab 141.5-in WB | 6,952 lbs |
| 6.7L H.O. V-8 Turbo Diesel | Standard | 4x2 Regular Cab 141.5-in WB | 6,935 lbs | ||
| 6.8L V-8 | Standard | 4x2 Regular Cab 141.5-in WB (w/ Gas Heavy-Duty Payload Package) | 8,000 lbs | ||
| 7.3L V-8 | Standard | 4x2 Regular Cab 141.5-in WB | 7,635 lbs |
Similar to towing capacity, your chosen trim level will reduce your vehicle's GVWR slightly. However, the model's wheel size will also impact its payload – smaller wheels have lower ratings, like the 4,201-pound maximum payload with the 6.8-liter V-8 and 17-inch wheels.2 Before hitching up or putting anything into your bed, be sure to consult your owner's manual.
Learn More About the F-350 Towing Guide at McGee Ford of Montpelier
Take the Ford F-350 towing capacity for a test drive in Central, VT, to experience its drive modes, trailer technology, and different trim levels. And the F-350 is just the start. Dodge the tariffs when you explore Ford models made in America, and check out lighter-duty models like the F-150 and F-250 – or get even heavier with the F-450 DRW.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can the Ford F-350 tow?
When properly equipped, the Ford F-350 can tow up to 38,000 pounds with a fifth-wheel configuration, or up to 28,000 pounds conventionally.1 In both cases, your best bet is a dual-rear wheel F-350 with the high-output turbo diesel. For better fifth-wheel towing, the Regular Cab 4x2 is your best bet. For conventional hitches, a 4x2 or 4x4 Crew Cab is optimal.
How much payload can the Ford F-350 carry?
The highest payload of the F-350 is 8,000 pounds with the 6.8-liter engine and Gas Heavy-Duty Payload Package on a Regular Cab 4x2 141.5-inch wheelbase model.2 No matter your choice in engine or configuration, the F-350 can comfortably carry over 3,000 pounds, plenty for most home DIY projects, water gear for the weekend, or camping equipment.
Which Ford F-350 engine offers the best towing performance?
The best engine for towing is the 6.8-liter high-output turbocharged diesel V-8, a monstrous powertrain capable of fifth-wheel towing up to 38,000 pounds.1 Conventional towing with this high-output diesel engine can reach 28,000 pounds with a Crew Cab.1 The standard diesel engine isn't far behind, reaching 36,300 pounds with a gooseneck setup when properly equipped.
What is the difference between gas and diesel engines for towing in the F-350?
For towing, the difference between gas and diesel engines is night and day. For example, the gas 6.8-liter V-8 has a maximum conventional towing capacity of 18,700 pounds.1 The 6.7-liter high-output turbo diesel is at 28,000 pounds of tow rating.1 That's 6,000 pounds above the 22,000-pound capacity of the available 7.3-liter V-8.1
How does the bed length affect F-350 towing capacity?
Bed length typically affects towing capacity and its hauling power, but for the F-350, a longer bed length has a longer wheelbase to compensate. For example, a high-output diesel engine on a Crew Cab 4x4, 159.7-inch wheelbase, 6.75-foot bed has a towing capacity of 23,900 pounds.1 The 175.9-inch wheelbase 8-foot bed has a towing capacity of 23,600 pounds.1
What safety features assist with towing in the Ford F-350?
You have over a dozen standard and available towing features that can assist you with your Ford F-350. For example, the Trailer-Compatible BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) lets you peek around the back of your trailer, while Pro Trailer Backup Assist helps move your trailer and truck with a simple knob. Further additions, like the Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch and Smart Trailer Tow Connector, simplify the process.
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1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2Maximum payload capabilities are for properly equipped vehicles with required equipment and vary based on vehicle configuration, accessories, and option content. Horsepower, torque, payload and towing are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously.