What is the max tow package on a 2017 F250?
The Max Tow Package on the 2017 Ford F-250 is Ford’s factory towing upgrade designed to maximize the truck’s towing capability. The exact towing rating depends on the truck’s specific configuration, including engine, axle, cab/bed, and drivetrain. In short, the package upgrades components to support heavier trailers, but there isn’t a single universal number that applies to every F-250 with Max Tow.
What the Max Tow Package Includes
To understand the upgrade, note the common components Ford bundles with the Max Tow Package. The list below highlights the core elements that typically accompany this option:
- 4.30 axle ratio (often with an electronic locking rear differential)
- Integrated trailer brake controller (or pre-wiring for one, depending on trim)
- Enhanced engine and transmission cooling for sustained towing performance
- Heavy-duty suspension tuning to improve stability under load
- Upgraded cooling systems such as a larger radiator program for heavy towing
These features work together to improve stability, braking, and reliability when towing larger trailers, especially over prolonged periods or challenging terrain.
How Towing Ratings Are Determined
The maximum towing capacity of a 2017 F-250 with the Max Tow Package is not a fixed number. It varies based on several configuration factors, including engine choice, axle ratio, cab/bed configuration, and 4x4 vs. 4x2 drivetrains. The diesel option and the higher axle ratio typically yield higher towing capacities, but exact figures must be taken from Ford’s official specifications for the specific build.
- Engine choice: gasoline (e.g., 6.2L V8) versus the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel
- Axle ratio: common configurations include 3.73 and 4.30, with 4.30 enabling stronger towing performance
- Cab and bed configuration: Regular Cab, SuperCab, or SuperCrew with different bed lengths
- Drivetrain: 4x2 versus 4x4 affects load and handling characteristics under tow
- Configurations included in the Max Tow Package: some ratings depend on whether the package is paired with other options or trim levels
- GVWR/GCWR: vehicle weight ratings that cap the permissible trailer weight for a given setup
Because these variables change from truck to truck, the best way to know the exact max tow rating for a specific 2017 F-250 with Max Tow is to consult the original window sticker (Monroney), the Build Sheet from Ford, or a VIN-based vehicle history/document retrieval service. A dealer can also confirm the precise rating for a given configuration.
How to Verify Your Specific Configuration
To determine the exact maximum towing capacity for a 2017 F-250 equipped with the Max Tow Package, use these steps:
- Locate the vehicle’s VIN and check the window sticker for the “Max Tow” designation and the axle ratio.
- Review the official Ford Build Sheet or Order Guide for the truck’s exact equipment list.
- Consult Ford’s owner resources or contact a dealer with the VIN to retrieve the precise towing rating (conventional towing and any gooseneck/5th-wheel ratings the truck may support).
Remember, even with the Max Tow Package, you must stay within the published ratings for your exact configuration and trailer setup, including tongue weight, trailer brakes, and weight distribution.
Summary
In 2017, the Max Tow Package for the Ford F-250 Super Duty represents Ford’s dedicated towing upgrade, typically including a 4.30 axle ratio, an integrated trailer brake controller, and enhanced cooling and suspension enhancements to support heavier towing. The package enables the highest available towing performance within the truck’s lineup, but the actual max tow rating is configuration-dependent. For an exact figure, verify your truck’s VIN, window sticker, and Build Sheet through Ford’s official sources or a Ford dealer.
Bottom line: Max Tow equals maximum capability within your truck’s specific build, and precise numbers require configuration-specific verification.
How much can a 2017 F-250 6.7 powerstroke tow?
The 2017 Ford F-250 with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine has a maximum conventional towing capacity of up to 18,000 pounds and a maximum gooseneck/fifth-wheel towing capacity of up to 27,500 pounds when properly equipped. The exact capacity depends on the specific cab, drivetrain (4x2 or 4x4), and available tow packages.
Key towing specifications
- Conventional towing: Up to 18,000 pounds
- Fifth-wheel/Gooseneck towing: Up to 27,500 pounds
- Engine (6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel): Generates 440 horsepower and 925 lb-ft of torque
- Payload: Can exceed 3,900 pounds for a crew cab, short-bed diesel configuration
What is the Ford F250 high capacity trailer tow package?
The F-250's "High-Capacity Trailer Tow Package" is a factory option, sometimes called the High Capacity Axle Upgrade Package, that increases towing and hauling capabilities, with some configurations reaching up to 20,000 lbs for conventional towing and higher for fifth-wheel/gooseneck setups. This package typically includes upgrades like a more robust rear axle, enhanced cooling systems, and an upgraded alternator. It is often required for towing heavy loads and is frequently paired with specific tire options.
This video explains the towing capacities of F-250 and F-350 models with different engines and packages: 59sBigBoyToyzYouTube · Apr 8, 2021
Key features and benefits
- Increased towing capacity: The High-Capacity Trailer Tow Package is essential for maximizing the F-250's towing potential, allowing it to tow loads of up to 20,000 pounds with a standard hitch.
- Enhanced durability: The package includes an upgraded rear axle and other components to handle heavier loads, increasing the truck's overall GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) to 11,400 lbs or more.
- Improved cooling: Upgraded cooling systems are included to help the truck manage heat under heavy towing conditions.
- Stronger electrical system: An upgraded alternator ensures that the truck's electrical system can handle the power demands of towing heavy loads.
- Specific tire requirements: The package often requires specific tires, such as 18" or 20" all-season or all-terrain tires, to achieve its maximum capacity.
How to identify if your F-250 has the package
- Check the vehicle's specifications: Consult the owner's manual or the vehicle's build sheet to see if the "High-Capacity Trailer Tow Package (535)" is listed.
- Look for physical upgrades: The package often includes a larger, more robust rear axle. You may also notice a beefier alternator and upgraded cooling components under the hood.
- Consider the Tremor package: Some Ford Super Duty trucks with the Tremor Off-Road Package may have similar towing capabilities, but note that the High-Capacity Axle Upgrade is not available with the Tremor package.
This video shows how to check towing capacity based on truck configuration: 1mCars With SteveYouTube · Mar 24, 2022
Important considerations
- Towing capacity varies: Towing capacity is dependent on multiple factors, including the specific engine, axle ratio, and other optional equipment. Always consult your vehicle's specifications or the Ford Towing Selector to determine your exact ratings.
- Safety first: Never exceed your vehicle's maximum towing capacity. Be sure to also check your trailer's weight, tongue weight, and your vehicle's payload capacity before towing.
- Resale value: The F-350 is often mentioned as an alternative when considering the highest towing capacities, and some users find they are very similar in terms of capability, but with potential resale value differences.
Why avoid 2017 F-250?
"Death wobble, violent steering when road seam hit, 17,000 miles. Requires keeping new tires and suspension tweaks to avoid return of death wobble."
What is the difference between a tow package and a max tow package?
So what's the difference? Trailer Tow Package – This includes the essentials: a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and usually a transmission oil cooler. Max Trailer Tow Package – Adds upgraded rear axle ratios, a heavy-duty radiator, integrated trailer brake controller, and sometimes enhanced suspension.
