1. Overview & Purpose
- Ford F-250: Considered a ¾-ton truck, it is ideal for those who need significant towing and hauling capability but don’t require the extreme payload and towing ratings of the F-350.
- Ford F-350: A 1-ton truck, it is built for heavier towing and payloads, making it better suited for commercial applications or those who tow extremely heavy trailers.
2. Chassis & Suspension
- F-250: Generally comes with a lighter-duty suspension compared to the F-350, making the ride slightly smoother for daily driving.
- F-350: Features a heavier-duty suspension, often with additional rear leaf springs, allowing for greater payload and towing capabilities.
3. 3. Payload Capacity
- F-250: Payload capacity varies based on configuration but typically ranges from 3,500 to 4,300 pounds.
- F-350: Can handle significantly more, with payload capacities ranging from 4,000 to over 7,800 pounds, especially when equipped with a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setup.
4. Towing Capacity
- F-250: Conventional towing capacity ranges from 12,000 to 20,000 pounds, depending on engine choice and axle configuration. With a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch, towing can increase to around 22,000 pounds.
- F-350: Offers a higher towing capacity, ranging from 13,000 to 21,000 pounds with conventional towing and 24,000 to over 35,000 pounds with a gooseneck or fifth-wheel setup.
5. Drivetrain & Axle Options
- F-250: Usually comes with a 10.5-inch rear axle for single rear wheel (SRW) configurations.
- F-350: Offers a larger 11.5-inch or 12-inch rear axle, which allows for increased towing and payload. It is also available with a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setup, providing more stability for heavy loads.
6. Wheels & Tire Options
- F-250: Only available in single rear wheel (SRW) configurations.
- F-350: Available in both SRW and DRW (dually) setups, with the dually option providing better stability for towing heavy trailers.
7. Frame & GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
- F-250: Has a GVWR typically between 10,000 and 10,800 pounds.
- F-350: Features a higher GVWR, ranging from 10,100 to 14,000 pounds, depending on whether it is an SRW or DRW configuration.
8. Pricing & Cost Considerations
- F-250: Generally less expensive than the F-350 due to its lower towing and payload capabilities.
- F-350: Costs more, especially in dually configurations, due to its higher weight ratings and heavy-duty components.
9. Ride Comfort & Daily Driving
- F-250: More comfortable for daily driving due to its softer suspension.
- F-350: Rides rougher, especially when unloaded, due to the stiffer suspension designed for heavy loads.
10. Who Should Choose Which?
- Choose the F-250 if you need a powerful truck for towing and hauling but want a slightly smoother ride and lower costs.
- Choose the F-350 if you regularly tow heavier loads, require a dually for stability, or need maximum payload capacity.
Conclusion
While both trucks are powerful workhorses, the F-350 offers more capability at the expense of ride comfort and cost. The F-250, on the other hand, provides plenty of capability for most users while being a better daily driver.