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What is the towing capacity of the F-450 vs f550?

The Ford F-450 and F-550 are both heavy-duty pickup trucks known for their impressive towing capabilities. However, there are some key differences in their towing capacities that are important to understand when choosing the right truck for your needs.


Ford F-450 Towing Capacity


The Ford F-450 has a maximum towing capacity of 37,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it one of the most capable towing vehicles on the market. The F-450's towing capacity is achieved through its robust frame, powerful engine options, and heavy-duty suspension components.


Ford F-550 Towing Capacity


The Ford F-550, on the other hand, has an even higher maximum towing capacity of 37,000 pounds, matching the F-450. The F-550 achieves this impressive towing capacity through its larger size, heavier-duty chassis, and more powerful engine options compared to the F-450.


Key Differences


While the towing capacities of the F-450 and F-550 are nearly identical, there are some other key differences between the two trucks:



  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The F-550 has a higher GVWR of 19,500 pounds, compared to 16,500 pounds for the F-450. This means the F-550 can carry more weight overall, including the vehicle, passengers, and cargo.

  • Payload Capacity: The F-550 has a higher payload capacity of 7,630 pounds, compared to 6,510 pounds for the F-450. This allows the F-550 to carry more weight in the truck bed or attached to the hitch.

  • Engine Options: The F-550 is available with more powerful engine options, including a 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine that produces up to 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. The F-450 is limited to a maximum of 450 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque.


In summary, while the Ford F-450 and F-550 have nearly identical maximum towing capacities, the F-550 offers slightly more capability in terms of GVWR, payload, and engine power. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific towing and hauling needs.

What is the difference between the F-450 and the F-550?


The question for you is, “Which of these pickup trucks will you choose?” If towing is your biggest priority, then the Ford F-450 might be a better fit for you as it has a higher towing capacity than the F-550. However, if payload capacity is more of your preference, then you might lean more toward the F-550.



Can a F-450 tow more than a F-550?


Conventional Towing Capacity: The F-450 Chassis Cab can tow up to 17,500 pounds conventionally, while the F-550 can tow up to 18,500 pounds with a standard hitch. That's right: the F-550 towing capacity gives you a slight edge from the start.



What is the max towing for a Ford f550?


18,500 pounds
Towing and Payload for the 2021 Ford F-550 Super Duty
When you have a conventional towing arrangement in place, the Ford F-550 can reach a maximum capacity of 18,500 pounds. If you use a gooseneck towing style or 5th-wheel setup, instead, you can expect as much as 31,300 pounds of maximum towing.



Is the F-550 a 2 ton truck?


The Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 3500, Ford F-350, and Ram 3500 are known as "one ton" pickups. Similar schemes exist for vans and SUVs (e.g. a 1-ton Dodge Van or a 1⁄2-ton GMC Suburban), medium duty trucks (e.g. the 1 1⁄2-ton Ford F-550) and some military vehicles, like the ubiquitous deuce-and-a-half.



Can you drive a F-450 without a CDL?


The requirement for a CDL to operate a Ford F450 depends on the specific use of the truck. According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines, a CDL is not required for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,000 lbs or less.



How much can a F-450 legally tow?


2023 Ford F-450 Tow Capacity
The 2023 Ford Super Duty F-450 can tow up to 40,000 pounds with the high-output 6.7L turbo diesel V8 engine. View towing specifications in the following table. 30,000 lbs.



How much does a Ford F550 weight?


The Ford F-550 has a significantly higher Gross Vehicle Weight Rating than the F-450; it ranges from 17,500 to 19,500 pounds depending on the configuration that you choose. This means it's always listed as a Class V Medium Duty Vehicle.



What Ford truck has the highest towing capacity?


Ford Super Duty® - F-250, F-350, F-450. You dream it and your Ford Super Duty® truck can do it. When it comes to towing, no heavy-duty truck hauls more than a Ford Super Duty® pickup. The F-450 achieves the Ford truck lineup's highest towing capacity at 37,000 pounds with a gooseneck configuration.



What is the heaviest you can haul without a CDL?


26,000 pounds
You can haul with vehicles that have a total GVWR under 26,000 pounds without needing a CDL. This weight limit includes both the vehicle and its cargo.



What truck can tow 40,000 pounds?


Ford Super Duty F-450: Up to 40,000 pounds.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.