What Ford F-250 has the highest towing capacity?
The highest published towing figure for the Ford F-250 is achieved with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel in gooseneck or fifth-wheel setups, with Ford listing up to about 37,000 pounds; for conventional hitch towing, the maximum climbs to roughly 22,800 pounds.
The Ford F-250 is part of Ford's Super Duty lineup and is commonly used for heavy-duty towing tasks. However, the exact capacity depends on configuration, including engine choice, axle ratio, cab/bed setup, and hitch type. This article breaks down the key figures and what they mean for buyers and operators.
Max tow ratings in brief
A quick breakdown
Below are the two primary ways buyers typically tow with an F-250. The figures assume proper equipment, adherence to Ford's guidelines, and that the vehicle is configured for heavy towing (tow package, appropriate hitch, etc.).
- Conventional towing: up to 22,800 pounds (6.7L Power Stroke diesel; actual number varies slightly by axle ratio and cab/bed configuration).
- Gooseneck or fifth-wheel towing: up to about 37,000 pounds on select configurations when properly equipped for heavy-duty gooseneck/fifth-wheel towing.
These numbers reflect Ford's published specifications for typical highway configurations. Real-world results may differ based on payload, fuel, terrain, and how strictly towing limits are observed.
What this means for buyers
For buyers, the key takeaway is that the F-250’s maximum conventional tow is considerably lower than its gooseneck/fifth-wheel capability. If your hauling involves large, heavy trailers, a gooseneck or fifth-wheel setup can dramatically increase the rated pull, but it also requires specialized hitches, additional braking, and careful adherence to ratings.
When evaluating a used or new F-250, check the exact window sticker or the OEM spec sheet for your exact build, as the numbers can shift with engine choice, axle ratio, transmission, 4x4 vs 4x2 drive, and whether the truck is marketed with the heavy-duty towing package.
Key considerations when planning to tow with an F-250
Before selecting an F-250 for a towing job, consider the following factors that influence the practical towing limit beyond the published numbers:
- Engine choice: The 6.7L Power Stroke turbo diesel delivers the highest towing capacity, especially for heavy trailers.
- Axle ratio: A higher numeric ratio (e.g., 4.30) can improve towing performance but may affect fuel economy and payload.
- Hitch type: Conventional ball hitches differ significantly from gooseneck or fifth-wheel setups in both capacity and driving dynamics.
- Braking and suspension: Proper trailer brakes, upgraded suspension components, and trailer sway control impact safety and capability.
- Payload vs. GCWR: The gross vehicle weight rating and payload capacity interact with towing capacity; exceeding these can impact handling and safety.
In practice, consult the vehicle’s manual and Ford’s official specifications for your exact configuration, and consider working with a professional installer when adding heavy-duty hitches or fifth-wheel/gooseneck assemblies.
Summary
In the Ford F-250 lineup, the highest towing capacity is achieved with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel configured for gooseneck or fifth-wheel towing, with rates approaching 37,000 pounds on select builds. For conventional towing, the ceiling sits around 22,800 pounds. Buyers should base their choice on the actual drivetrain, axle ratio, hitch type, and intended use, and always verify the specific numbers for their exact vehicle configuration.
