Loading

Whats the difference between F-550 and F600?

The Ford F-550 and F-600 are both heavy-duty commercial trucks, but they have some key differences in terms of their capabilities and intended uses. In this article, we'll explore the main distinctions between these two Ford models to help you determine which one might be the better fit for your needs.


Payload and Towing Capacity


The primary difference between the F-550 and F-600 lies in their payload and towing capacities. The F-550 has a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 19,500 pounds, while the F-600 can handle up to 22,000 pounds of GVWR. This means the F-600 can carry and tow heavier loads than the F-550, making it a better choice for those who need to transport extremely heavy equipment or materials.


Chassis and Suspension


To support the increased payload and towing capacity, the F-600 features a more robust chassis and suspension system compared to the F-550. The F-600 has a stronger frame, larger brakes, and a more heavy-duty suspension setup. This allows the F-600 to handle the additional weight and stress of hauling larger loads without compromising performance or safety.


Engine and Powertrain Options


Both the F-550 and F-600 offer a range of engine and powertrain options, but the F-600 generally has more powerful engine choices. The F-600 can be equipped with a 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine or a 6.7-liter V8 diesel engine, both of which produce more horsepower and torque than the engine options available for the F-550. This added power helps the F-600 handle heavier loads with greater ease.


Applications and Use Cases


Given its higher payload and towing capacities, the F-600 is typically better suited for the following applications:



  • Heavy-duty construction and infrastructure projects

  • Large-scale landscaping and tree removal operations

  • Transporting oversized or exceptionally heavy equipment and materials

  • Specialized commercial and industrial applications that require maximum hauling capabilities


In contrast, the F-550 may be a more appropriate choice for those who need a heavy-duty truck but don't require the maximum payload and towing capabilities of the F-600. The F-550 can still handle a wide range of commercial and industrial tasks, but it may be better suited for jobs that don't involve the heaviest loads.

Is a 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.



What is the difference between F650 and F600?


According to Ford, the new truck was designed to provide a midpoint between its F-550 and F-650 offerings. Although the overall vehicle is the same size as an F-550, the F-600 uses upgraded driveline and chassis components, as well as higher-weight-rated 19.5-in.



Do you need a CDL to drive a Ford F-650?


For dump trucks with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less, you do not require a CDL. Examples of under-CDL dump trucks include the Freightliner M2, International 4300, and Ford F650.



Can you drive a F-550 without a CDL?


No. Max GVW for an F-550 is 19,000 lbs, which is under the 26,000 lb limit. You can drive it with a regular license. The exception here is if you are towing a trailer that would put the max gross weight over 26,000 lbs.



How much weight can a F600 carry?


15,090-lb.
Capability Built-In From The Ground Up
The F-600* features a 15,090-lb. maximum payload rating and is able to tow up to 34,500 lbs. It boasts a GCWR of 43,000 lbs., and higher-weight-rated 19.5" tires allow it to achieve a GVWR of 22,000 lbs., all exceeding the already impressive numbers of the F-550.



Do I need a CDL to drive a F600?


A commercial driver's license is required for the operation of any singular vehicles 26,001 pounds and over (including the combination of a truck/trailer, anything being towed, etc.).



What is the difference between a F-550 and F600?


For the F-550, you'll have the option to opt for a Crew Cab or SuperCab instead of the standard Regular Cab, which is the only option for the F-600. However, the F-600 features many upgraded components – such as its driveline, brakes and chassis – in order to deliver its superior Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.



Is a Ford F550 considered a commercial vehicle?


Class 5—This class covers trucks with GVWRs from 16,001 to 19,500 pounds. There are still a few vehicles in this class that straddle the line between non-commercial and commercial use such as Ford's F-550. However, this class is where more commercial vehicles emerge.



What is the difference between Ford 600 and 550?


Number an F550 is maxed out at 19,500 lb so you get an extra 2,500 lb of GVWR. And the gooseeneck towing capability is also increased on an F600 pushing the lines of almost 35,000 lb the F600's. Also



What can a F-550 haul?


It all adds up to a best-in-class payload capacity of 12,750 lbs. and a massive 31,800 lbs. for the 2024 Ford F-550 towing capacity while being aspirated by the Power Stroke® engine.


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.