What is the difference between SRW and DRW F-350?

The difference between SRW (Single Rear Wheel) and DRW (Dual Rear Wheel) versions of the Ford F-350 Super Duty centers on rear-axle configuration, capability, and cost. SRW is lighter and more maneuverable; DRW is heavier with higher load stability and stronger heavy-tow capability—and typically carries a higher price tag. The right choice depends on your towing needs, trailer type, and budget.

In more detail, the SRW and DRW variants share core components like the chassis and powertrain options, but the rear-axle setup influences payload capacity, towing stability, braking, wheel track width, and overall operating costs. This article breaks down how those differences affect daily use, heavy towing, and ownership costs so you can decide which setup fits your needs.

What SRW and DRW mean for your truck

Single Rear Wheel (SRW) means the rear axle carries one wheel on each side. Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) uses two rear tires on each side. The difference is most noticeable in how the truck carries weight and handles big trailers.

Key capability differences between SRW and DRW

Below is a concise look at how SRW and DRW configurations diverge in capability. The list focuses on rear-axle impact on payload, towing stability, and daily usability.

• Rear axle and track width: DRW adds dual tires per side, which widens the rear track for improved lateral stability when hauling heavy trailers or equipment.


• Payload and GVWR interplay: DRW typically carries a higher gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) to accommodate heavier loads, but the added axle weight can affect the actual payload you can carry in some configurations. Always compare GVWR and curb weight for your exact build.


• Towing stability and braking: DRW shines with heavy gooseneck/fifth-wheel setups and large bumper-tow loads due to the stiffer rear axle and better weight distribution.


• Handling and turning: SRW is generally more maneuverable with a tighter turning circle and easier parking, while DRW’s wider rear footprint can make turning looser and more challenging in tight spaces.


• Ride quality and noise: DRW tends to ride heavier and can transmit more road feel and bulk into the cabin, whereas SRW typically feels more car-like on regular roads.


• Maintenance and operating costs: DRW incurs higher tire and component costs (two more rear tires per axle, and related wear parts) and slightly higher fuel use due to added weight and rolling resistance.

Overall, DRW is favored for heavy-duty towing and payload-demanding work, while SRW is preferred for daily driving, better maneuverability, and lower upfront cost. Specific specs vary by year, drivetrain, cab/bed combo, and axle ratio, so always check the exact build sheet.

Practical considerations for choosing SRW or DRW

Here are practical guidelines to help you decide which setup matches your duties, trailer type, and budget.

• Trailer type and weight: If you regularly tow heavy fifth-wheels or goosenecks, DRW offers stability and payload advantages that matter at high tow weights.


• Daily driving and maneuverability: If most trips are around town or on mixed roads, SRW provides easier handling and a tighter turning radius.


• Bed and cab configuration: Some cab/bed combinations are more commonly paired with SRW or DRW; verify availability for your preferred layout (SuperCab vs SuperCrew, bed length).


• Cost of ownership: DRW generally costs more upfront (and over time) due to extra tires and heavier components, but it may translate into safer, more stable heavy-tow performance.


• Resale and market demand: DRW configurations are sought after for certain commercial and heavy-duty applications; SRW remains popular for general use and lighter-duty towing.

When choosing, compare the exact GVWR, payload, rear-axle ratings, and hitch compatibility for your intended trailer. Factory specs and dealer guidance reflect your precise year/model and build.

Summary

SRW and DRW F-350 models offer the same core powertrain options, but the rear-axle setup drives the big differences: DRW provides greater stability and higher potential payload for heavy-duty towing, at the cost of higher purchase and operating expenses and reduced maneuverability. SRW delivers better daily drivability and lower cost with sufficient capability for many bumper-pull and lighter heavy-duty tasks. Always confirm the exact numbers for your chosen configuration with Ford’s official specs or a dealer, as options and ratings can shift between model years.

What is the difference between F-350 single wheel and F-350 dually?

An F-350 Dually (dual rear wheel) is superior for heavy towing and stability, while a single rear wheel (SRW) F-350 is more maneuverable and better for daily driving with a more comfortable ride. The dually's advantage comes from a wider base, more tires, and a greater tire contact patch, which provides higher stability and greater payload/towing capacity. The SRW is a more practical choice for everyday use, as the dually can be more difficult to park and navigate in tight spaces.
 
This video explains the differences between single rear wheel and dual rear wheel trucks: 54sJB ReviewsYouTube · Jun 26, 2021
F-350 Dually 

• Pros:
  • Higher towing capacity: Duallys can tow significantly heavier loads, such as large fifth-wheel trailers. 
  • Enhanced stability: The extra set of rear wheels and wider stance provide superior stability, especially when towing heavy loads, in windy conditions, or on uneven terrain. 
  • Increased traction and braking: More tire on the road means better traction, and the larger brakes provide more stopping power for heavy loads. 
  • Better control in blowouts: If one rear tire blows out, the dually setup provides a greater chance of maintaining control of the vehicle. 
• Cons:
  • Difficult to maneuver: The wider body can make it difficult to park and navigate tight city streets or parking lots. 
  • Higher costs: Purchase price is higher, and there are increased costs for maintenance, such as rotating and replacing six tires instead of four. 
  • Stiffer ride: Without a heavy load, the ride can be stiffer and less comfortable. 

F-350 Single Rear Wheel (SRW) 

• Pros:
  • More maneuverable: Easier to drive and park in urban environments and tight spaces. 
  • More comfortable ride: Generally provides a more comfortable ride when not under a heavy load. 
  • Lower costs: Lower initial purchase price and lower maintenance costs (fewer tires). 
• Cons:
  • Lower towing and payload capacity: Limited compared to a dually, making it unsuitable for extremely heavy loads. 
  • Less stable: Less stable than a dually when towing very heavy or long trailers. 
  • Less traction and braking: Has less tire contact with the road, which affects traction and stopping power compared to a dually. 

You can watch this video to see the differences in ride comfort between single and dually trucks: 59sThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Dec 13, 2019
Which one should you choose?

• Choose the Dually if: You frequently tow very large trailers (like luxury fifth-wheels or triple-axle toy haulers), haul extremely heavy equipment, or prioritize maximum stability and safety for your load over daily driving convenience. 
• Choose the SRW if: You want a truck for a mix of daily driving and occasional heavy hauling, value maneuverability and lower operating costs, and do not routinely tow loads that exceed its capacity. 

What year F-350 to stay away from?

You should generally stay away from 1998–2004 Ford F-350 models due to handling issues from leaf-spring front suspension and a history of engine, transmission, and rust problems. Other years to be cautious of include those with specific problematic engines, such as the 6.0L and 6.4L Powerstroke diesel engines, found in models like the 2003-2007 and 2008-2010 years, respectively. The 2011-2014 6.7L Powerstroke models also had notable issues with their turbochargers and high-pressure fuel pumps, as described by this YouTube video and Sinister Diesel.
 
Years to avoid

• 1998–2004: These models have a rougher ride due to a leaf-spring front suspension and are known for engine, transmission, and rust issues. 
• 2003–2007 (6.0L Powerstroke): This engine is known for numerous problems, especially head gasket issues, unless it has been thoroughly upgraded, according to Facebook users. 
• 2008–2010 (6.4L Powerstroke): This engine is often cited by owners as being unreliable, says Facebook users. 
• 2011–2014 (6.7L Powerstroke): These years had early versions of the 6.7L with problematic dual-compressor turbos and a high-pressure CP4 fuel pump that is prone to failure, notes this YouTube video and Sinister Diesel. 

Years to consider

• 2005, 2007, 2009, 2010: These years were less problematic than the years listed above. 
• 2015–2016: These models feature the improved 6.7L Powerstroke with steel bearings in the turbo, which are more reliable. 
• 2017–2022 and 2023–Present: These later models are generally considered more reliable overall. 

Is DRW better than SRW?

Superior Fifth-Wheel & Gooseneck Options - If you're towing with a fifth-wheel hitch or gooseneck hitch, a DRW truck is a far superior choice compared to an SRW model. You'll have more room in the bed and greater stability to accommodate the heavier weight of the trailer itself.

What is the difference between Ford F-350 DRW and SRW?

An F-350 SRW (Single Rear Wheel) is more maneuverable and has a more comfortable ride for daily driving, while a DRW (Dual Rear Wheel) has significantly higher stability, payload, and towing capacities, making it better suited for heavy-duty work, especially with fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers. Key trade-offs include a DRW's wider footprint, which can be challenging in tight spaces like narrow roads, construction zones, and some parking lots, and a lower fuel economy compared to SRW models. 
This video explains the difference between single rear wheel and dual rear wheel trucks: 50sThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Dec 13, 2019
F-350 SRW (Single Rear Wheel) 

• Best for: Daily driving, urban use, and lighter hauling/towing. 
• Pros:
  • More maneuverable, with a narrower body and footprint. 
  • Easier to park and navigate in cities and tight spaces. 
  • Generally has a more comfortable ride when unloaded. 
• Cons:
  • Lower payload and towing capacity compared to a DRW. 
  • Less stability when towing very heavy loads, like large fifth-wheel trailers. 

F-350 DRW (Dual Rear Wheel) 

• Best for: Hauling and towing the heaviest loads, especially fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers. 
• Pros:
  • Higher payload and towing capacities. 
  • Significantly greater stability under heavy loads, reducing sway and improving handling. 
• Cons:
  • Wider, making it more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, narrow lanes, and parking lots. 
  • Poorer fuel economy compared to SRW. 
  • May struggle in some off-road or slippery conditions due to its design. 

How to choose

• Choose SRW if: Your priority is a vehicle that is easier to drive and park on a daily basis. You still plan to tow, but not the heaviest loads, or you will primarily use a conventional bumper-pull trailer. 
• Choose DRW if: You regularly tow very heavy loads, such as large fifth-wheel campers, multi-horse trailers, or heavy construction equipment. You need the extra stability and payload capacity for safety and peace of mind.