Is a F-350 single wheel a 1 ton?
Yes. The Ford F-350 with single rear wheels is considered part of the one-ton class. The term “one-ton” comes from the vehicle’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) and applies to both SRW (single rear wheel) and DRW (dual rear wheel) configurations in Ford’s F-Series Super Duty lineup.
What the one-ton label really means
In the U.S., trucks are grouped by GVWR, which is the maximum allowable weight the vehicle can carry including passengers and cargo. Trucks with GVWR in roughly the 10,001–14,000 pound band are traditionally labeled as one-ton class. The F-350 sits in this category, while the lighter F-250 sits in the two-thirds-ton range and the heavier DRW combinations push toward the upper end of the one-ton segment. Wheel configuration (SRW vs DRW) affects payload and GVWR, but both variants typically remain within the one-ton class.
F-350 SRW vs DRW: what changes
Here’s how the single-rear-wheel and dual-rear-wheel versions compare in common configurations for recent model years. Values vary by year, cab/bed choice, engine, and options, but the overall pattern is consistent.
- GVWR: F-350 SRW typically lists around 10,000 to 11,400 pounds; F-350 DRW commonly ranges from 12,000 to 14,000 pounds.
- Payload capacity (the maximum weight you can carry in the bed and with passengers): SRW roughly 3,500 to 4,500 pounds in many builds; DRW roughly 5,000 to 7,500 pounds depending on configuration.
- Towing capabilities: both configurations offer heavy-duty towing, with DRW often yielding higher payload and stability for large loads; exact ratings depend on engine (gas or diesel), axle ratio, and hitch setup.
- Physical footprint and handling: SRW is lighter and generally easier to maneuver and park; DRW has a wider rear stance that helps with stability under heavy payloads.
In practice, if your priority is maximum payload and stability for heavy towing, a DRW F-350 makes more sense. If you want better daily drivability and tighter turning, an SRW variant is typically sufficient while still offering substantial one-ton capability.
Verifying the numbers on your truck
Always check the door placard on the driver's side jamb for the exact GVWR, axle ratings, and payload figures for the specific vehicle. Engine choice, cab/bed configuration, and options will shift the numbers within the typical ranges described above.
Bottom line for shoppers
Yes—the F-350 with single rear wheels sits in the one-ton class, just as the dual-rear-wheel version does. The primary difference is how much weight the truck is allowed to carry and tow, defined by GVWR and payload ratings that vary by configuration.
Summary
The Ford F-350, whether SRW or DRW, is considered a one-ton pickup. The single-rear-wheel variant generally carries a GVWR in the 10,000–11,400-lb range, with payload typically around 3,500–4,500 pounds. The DRW model increases GVWR and payload, often 12,000–14,000 pounds GVWR and 5,000–7,500 pounds payload. Buyers should verify exact numbers on the specific truck via the door sticker and build sheet. The one-ton label reflects GVWR rather than wheel count and is tied to the truck’s intended use in heavy-duty hauling and towing contexts.
Why is an F-350 called a 1 ton?
"Ton" rating
When light-duty trucks were first produced in the United States, they were rated by their payload capacity in tons: 1⁄2 (1000 pounds), 3⁄4 (1500 pounds) and 1-ton (2000 pounds). Ford had introduced the "One-Tonner" in 1938 to their line of trucks.
Is a F-350 single wheel a 1 ton?
Towing & Payload Capacity (F-350 SRW) Towing and payload are where the F-350 SRW really separates itself from lighter-duty trucks. This is a true one-ton truck (and then some).
How do I know if my truck is 3/4-ton or 1 ton?
Historically, these classifications meant a 1/2-ton truck had a 1,000-pound payload capacity, a 3/4-ton truck could accommodate a 1,500-pound payload, and 2,000 pounds was the maximum payload weight of a 1-ton truck.
Is an F-350 a 1 ton or 3/4-ton?
Using Ford as an example, the F-150 would be considered a half-ton, the F-250 Super Duty would be a 3/4-ton, and the F-350 Super Duty would be a 1-ton. In more technical terms, trucks now are broken into classes by the Federal Highway Administration.
