The Ford F250
is a hardcore truck for anyone with substantial towing needs. Its towing capacity ranges from 12,300 to 15,000 pounds depending on the trim level you select. That said, even 12,300 pounds is more than enough for most people’s towing needs. When it comes to high-performance trucks, there aren’t many that match the Ford F250. Featuring an optional four-wheel drive, a powerful V8 engine, and a luxurious interior, the F250 makes towing any load look as easy as a leisurely afternoon drive.
To help you understand the Ford F250’s towing capabilities, the car insurance
super app Jerry
has compiled this article with everything you need to know. Here, we’ll look at everything from the F250’s towing capacity to tips for stabilizing your load on the road. Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
How much can a Ford F250 tow?
Base towing capacity: 12,300 pounds
Maximum towing capacity: 15,000 pounds
Engines: 6.2-liter V-8 (385 hp), 7.3-liter V-8 (430 hp), and 6.7-liter V-8 (475 hp)
The F250 is a full-size truck with an enormous flatbed, an insane towing capacity, and a reliable reputation for lasting for upwards of 300,000 miles.
While the base model can handle towing around 12,300 pounds, opting for the F250 Limited can increase that capacity to a total of 15,000 pounds. If that’s not enough, the payload capacity is a respectable 4,300 pounds. With hauling capabilities like that, you may not even need to use a trailer.
Trailer hitches for the Ford F250
When you buy a Ford F250 intending to tow, one of the biggest choices you’ll need to make is which kind of trailer hitch you want. You can typically make the most of your truck’s towing capacity with a regular towing hitch. If you’re looking to pull any excessive loads, you may be able to increase your capacity by using a fifth wheel and gooseneck hitch.
Of course, you’ll only need powerful gear like a gooseneck hitch if you’re looking to tow a piece of oversize equipment. Odds are, you’ll be just fine with a standard hitch.
How to calculate the towing capacity you need
Towing capacity can be tricky to understand, but it’s pretty simple when you break it down. To calculate your towing needs, just add together the weight of your gear and towing equipment.
If you’re sticking a few canoes in a metal trailer, then add up the weight of each canoe along with the trailer to understand how much weight you’re pulling. While that sounds like an easy process, people often forget to account for the weight of the trailer.
Failing to account for the weight of your towing equipment can lead to a loss of control on the road—and severe injuries if you mistakenly exceed your truck’s towing capacity. Luckily, the F250 can carry enough weight that it shouldn’t be a problem, but always be sure to include the towing gear in your weight calculations.
How to increase towing capacity
While there aren’t many ways to increase your towing capacity without making major mechanical changes, you can always take steps to optimize the capacity you have. Here are a few tips for making the most of your towing capabilities:
Stabilize the load with a weight-distribution hitch
Get better brake pads and rotors to make stopping safer
Buy stronger axles to help support higher weights
While these tips can help you get the most out of your truck, the best way to increase towing capacity is to opt for added features before you buy it. Upgrading to better engines and asking for the four-wheel-drive feature can significantly impact your towing abilities. That said, they aren’t as accessible in aftermarket scenarios.
How to find affordable car insurance
Whether you’re pulling a full-size trailer or a tiny wagon, you should always have the car insurance coverage you need before you hit the road. Luckily, finding the best available rate on the car insurance you want is faster and easier than ever with Jerry
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