What is the maximum weight a Ford F-250 can pull?
In general, the Ford F-250 can tow up to about 20,000 pounds with a conventional hitch, and up to around 37,000 pounds with a gooseneck or 5th-wheel setup, depending on the exact configuration and equipment.
The precise maximum depends on engine choice, axle ratio, cab/bed configuration, drivetrain, and hitch type. This article outlines typical limits and how to verify the numbers for your truck.
Two main towing configurations
These numbers reflect two common ways owners tow with the F-250. The increase in capacity for gooseneck and 5th-wheel comes from the hitch design and load transfer characteristics.
Conventional towing (ball hitch)
Below are typical conventional-tow ratings across common F-250 configurations. These figures assume the vehicle is properly equipped with the max-towing package and is used within its GCWR.
- Diesel 6.7L Power Stroke: up to roughly 20,000 pounds, depending on axle ratio, cab/bed, and equipment.
- Gasoline engines (e.g., 7.3L V8): typically lower, often in the 12,000–16,000 pound range depending on spec.
- Reality check: Not every trims reach the top end; you must confirm your VIN’s rating in Ford’s spec sheets.
Note: These numbers are general guidelines. Always verify the exact towing rating for your specific configuration in Ford’s official documentation or the vehicle’s door placard.
Gooseneck and 5th-wheel towing
Gooseneck and fifth-wheel towing uses a different hitch type and transfer of load, allowing higher capacities. The following figures illustrate typical capabilities with the proper equipment.
- With the 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel and the factory towing package: up to about 37,000 pounds gooseneck or 5th-wheel towing.
- 5th-wheel trailers can vary by hitch and bed length; typically in the mid-30,000s range.
- Check exact torque, hitch rating, and GCWR for your vehicle, as numbers can differ by year and trim.
Note: Gooseneck/5th-wheel capacities exceed conventional towing due to the hitch design and load path. Confirm with Ford’s spec guide for your year/model.
Other factors that influence max tow weight
Beyond engine and hitch type, several factors influence the maximum tow rating for a given F-250, including axle ratio, tire size, drivetrain (4x2 vs 4x4), cab/bed configuration, maximum GCWR, payload, and available trailer-safety technologies.
- Engine choice: Diesel 6.7L typically yields the highest tow rating; gas engines are lower.
- Axle ratio and payload: The combination determines what weight can be towed safely and legally.
- Trailer brakes and weight distribution: Essential for heavy loads; many regions require trailer brakes above a threshold weight.
To confirm the exact maximum tow rating for your truck, consult the owner’s manual and Ford’s official spec sheets for your year, engine, and configuration.
Practical considerations for towing safely
Even if a truck is rated to tow a heavy trailer, you must account for gross combined weight rating (GCWR), tongue weight, payload, and trailer braking. Exceeding ratings can affect handling, braking, and legality.
Summary
The Ford F-250’s maximum tow weight varies by configuration. Conventional towing typically reaches around 12,000–20,000 pounds with diesel engines at the higher end; gooseneck and 5th-wheel towing can reach roughly 37,000 pounds when properly equipped. Always verify the exact ratings for your year, engine, cab/bed, and drivetrain in official Ford documentation.
In short, plan on roughly 20,000 pounds for standard hitch towing and up to about 37,000 pounds for gooseneck/5th-wheel when the vehicle is specifically configured for that purpose, but confirm exact numbers for your truck before towing.
Which F-250 to stay away from?
You should generally avoid the 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017 Ford F-250 models due to common issues like the "death wobble," transmission problems, and other electrical and brake failures. Other models to approach with caution include the 2003-2007 F-250 with the 6.0L Power Stroke engine due to potential engine problems, and the 2008-2010 F-250 with the 6.4L engine, which has known EGR cooler issues.
Model years to avoid
- 2006: Known for stalling, power steering loss, and brake issues, along with the death wobble.
- 2008: Has serious brake problems and the death wobble.
- 2011: Often experiences transmission issues, rough shifting, and the death wobble.
- 2017: Plagued by the "death wobble" and other suspension/steering problems.
- 2017-2019: Specifically mentioned as being susceptible to the "death wobble".
- 2003-2007 (with 6.0L Power Stroke engine): Prone to head gasket and oil cooler failures in stock form.
- 2008-2010 (with 6.4L Power Stroke engine): Has common EGR cooler failures that can lead to coolant loss and overheating.
General issues to be aware of
- Death Wobble: This is a recurring problem in several model years, especially 2008, 2011, and 2017, and is related to suspension and steering components.
- Transmission Problems: Rough shifting and unexpected gear changes have been reported in certain years, notably 2011.
- Engine Issues: Specific diesel engines have known problems. The 6.0L and 6.4L engines are especially notorious for requiring significant maintenance or bulletproofing to be reliable.
- Brake Failures: Some models have reported brake problems, including sudden failure and issues with the brake booster.
How much weight can an F-250 pull on a trailer?
The 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel and 6.7L High Output Power Stroke Turbo Diesel both offer a maximum towing capacity of up to 20,000 lbs. With Gooseneck towing, the Regular Cab can tow up to 23,000 lbs.
What is the 80% rule for towing?
The 80% rule for towing is a safety guideline that recommends the weight of a fully loaded trailer should not exceed 80% of a vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This provides a safety margin for unpredictable conditions and reduces stress on the vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes, helping to ensure better handling and a longer lifespan for components.
How it works
- Calculate your vehicle's limit: Find your vehicle's maximum towing capacity in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website.
- Calculate 80% of the limit: Multiply the maximum towing capacity by 0.800.800.80 to find your safe towing limit. For example, if your vehicle can tow 10,00010 comma 00010,000 pounds, your limit is 8,0008 comma 0008,000 pounds.
- Account for all weight: Ensure the total weight of the fully loaded trailer, including cargo and passengers in both the vehicle and the trailer, stays below this 80% limit.
Why it's important
- Safety margin: It provides a buffer for real-world factors like hills, curves, and sudden stops.
- Vehicle longevity: It reduces strain on key components like the engine, transmission, and brakes, which can extend their lifespan.
- Handling: Maintaining a margin helps ensure your vehicle can be steered and controlled effectively, even under load.
Which Ford F-250 engine is best for towing?
Diesel is where the F-250® flexes for heavy towing. The 6.7L 4V OHV Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel produces 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, offering strong grade-climbing performance and confident merging with weight in tow.
