How much can a 2017 F-550 tow?
The towing capacity of a 2017 Ford F-550 varies by engine, drivetrain, and hitch type, but it generally falls in the mid-teens to low-twenties thousands of pounds for bumper towing and approaches around 30,000 pounds for gooseneck or fifth-wheel setups.
What influences the numbers
Two engine options dominated 2017 F-550 models: the gasoline 6.8L V10 and the turbocharged diesel 6.7L Power Stroke. The diesel typically supports higher towing ratings due to its torque, but the exact figure depends on axle ratio, transmission, cab/bed configuration, and whether the truck is 4x2 or 4x4. Always verify the specific vehicle’s GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) and tow rating on the door sticker and in the owner's manual.
The following ranges reflect common factory-towed capacities seen on 2017 F-550 builds, illustrating how hitch type and engine choice influence performance.
- Conventional bumper-hitch towing (diesel, 6.7L Power Stroke): commonly about 12,000–20,000 pounds, depending on configuration.
- Conventional bumper-hitch towing (gas, 6.8L V10): typically lower, roughly 12,000–16,000 pounds.
- Gooseneck/fifth-wheel towing (diesel, 6.7L Power Stroke): up to around 28,000–30,000 pounds with the right setup.
- Gooseneck/fifth-wheel towing (gas, 6.8L V10): frequently in the 20,000–25,000 pound range, depending on configuration.
These ranges are approximate and depend on exact vehicle configuration, including axle ratio, tire size, payload, and added towing equipment. For precise numbers, consult the specific truck’s build sheet and manufacturer specifications.
How to verify the exact rating for your truck
To know exactly what your 2017 F-550 can tow, use these steps to confirm the official rating for your specific vehicle:
- Check the door jamb label (and the owner’s manual) for the GCWR and GVWR, which frame the maximum combined weight and vehicle weight limits.
- Obtain the vehicle’s build sheet or VIN-specific spec sheet from Ford or a dealer to confirm options that affect towing (engine, drivetrain, hitch type, axle ratio).
- Calculate tongue weight and trailer weight to ensure you stay within GCWR and the truck’s towing classification.
- Ensure the hitch and trailer brake system are rated to handle the intended load, and verify brake actuation and electrical connections are functional.
- Consult Ford’s towing guide or a qualified dealer for confirmation before pulling a load.
In practice, the exact rating is vehicle-specific. Verifying these details helps prevent overloading and ensures safe towing performance.
Tips for towing safely with a 2017 F-550
Even within rated limits, safe towing requires careful preparation and driving adjustments. Consider these guidelines when planning to tow with a 2017 F-550:
- Use the appropriate hitch: bumper tow for lighter loads; gooseneck or fifth-wheel for heavier trailers, aligning with the truck’s rating.
- Keep tongue weight within the recommended range: roughly 10–15% of trailer weight for bumper towing; 15–25% for gooseneck/fifth-wheel setups.
- Distribute weight evenly and secure all cargo; ensure payload does not exceed GVWR or affect steering and braking.
- Check tire ratings and maintain proper inflation; use tires rated for highway use and trailer loads.
- Enable trailer brakes as required and verify wiring, lights, and braking performance before departure.
- Plan for longer stopping distances and use engine braking to reduce wear on the braking system.
Summary
In summary, a 2017 Ford F-550 can tow a broad range of loads depending on configuration: conventional bumper towing generally falls in the low to mid-teens up to about 20,000 pounds, while gooseneck or fifth-wheel setups can approach 30,000 pounds with the right build. To determine the exact capability of a specific truck, consult the door sticker, the build sheet, and Ford’s official towing guidance, and always adhere to weight limits and safety best practices when towing.
What is the 80% towing rule?
Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.
How much can a 2017 F-550 tow?
The 2017 Ford F-550's towing capacity varies by configuration, with a maximum gooseneck towing capacity of 32,500 pounds and a conventional towing capacity of up to 21,000 pounds. The fifth-wheel towing capacity can be up to 27,500 pounds, and the maximum payload is 7,630 pounds.
This video shows a 2017 F-550 with a 6.7 Powerstroke engine towing a trailer: 1mworkplaytvYouTube · Sep 21, 2020
- Maximum Gooseneck Towing: 32,500 lbs
- Maximum Fifth-Wheel Towing: 27,500 lbs
- Maximum Conventional Towing: 21,000 lbs
- Maximum Payload: 7,630 lbs
What is the towing capacity of the 2017 6.7 powerstroke?
The towing capacity for a 2017 Ford Super Duty with the 6.7L Power Stroke engine varies significantly based on the truck's configuration, but it can reach up to 23,000 pounds for fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing and 18,000 pounds for conventional towing.
Towing capacity by configuration
| Towing type | Maximum capacity |
|---|---|
| Conventional | Up to 18,000 lbs |
| Fifth-wheel/Gooseneck | Up to 23,000 lbs |
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Important considerations
- These are the maximums for the 2017 Super Duty line. The exact towing capacity depends on the specific F-250, F-350, or F-450 model, along with axle ratio, cab size, and other options.
- It is always best to check the vehicle's specific owner's manual or the manufacturer's website for the precise towing capacity of your particular truck configuration.
- Ensure the vehicle is properly equipped with the necessary tow packages and hitches to achieve these maximum ratings.
How much weight can a F-550 pull?
A Ford F-550 can tow a maximum of 31,900 pounds using a gooseneck or 5th-wheel setup, or 18,500 pounds for conventional towing. The exact weight it can pull depends on the specific configuration, including the engine, body style, and how it is equipped.
By towing type
- Gooseneck/5th-wheel: Up to 31,900 pounds.
- Conventional (bumper pull): Up to 18,500 pounds.
Other important factors
- Engine: Towing capacity varies between the diesel and gas engines.
- Payload: The vehicle has a maximum payload capacity of over 12,000 pounds, which must be accounted for alongside towing weight.
- GCWR: The combined weight of the truck and trailer (Gross Combined Weight Rating) must not exceed the vehicle's specified limit.
- Configuration: Specific upfits and body styles will affect the final towing and payload capacities.
