Forum Discussion

GPG52_'s avatar
GPG52_
Explorer II
Dec 15, 2016

2017 GUIDE to TOWING Trailer Life mag insert

I found this interesting:
Taking the Trailer Life "Guide to Towing" I wanted to compare compatible Single Rear Wheel vs. Dual Rear Wheel towing vehicle. In order to try and maintain the integrity of the comparison I elected to use the Ford SuperDuty F series only.

GUIDE TO TOWING 2017

GAS WHEEL RATIO 5TH TRAILER
F-250 SuperCab Long Box, 4WD 6.2L V8 single 4.30:1 15,500 15,000
F-350 SuperCab Long Box, 4WD 6.2L V8 single 4.30:1 15,800 15,000
F-350 SuperCab Long Box, 4WD 6.2L V8 dual 4.30:1 15,800 15,800
F-250 SuperCab Long Box, 4WD 6.2L V8 single 3.73:1 12,500 12,500
F-350 SuperCab Long Box, 4WD 6.2L V8 single 3.73:1 12,300 12,300
F-350 SuperCab Long Box, 4WD 6.2L V8 dual 3.73:1 12,300 12,300

Hummm who would have guessed? :h

ps: SORRY THE COLUMNS TITLES DO NOT LINE UP ON THE POST.
6.2 = GAS
SINGLE/DUAL = REAR WHEELS
4:30/3.73 = REAR AXLE RATIO
SECOND LAST COLUMN = 5TH WHEEL TRAILER TOWING
LAST COLUMN = CONVENTIONAL TRAILER TOWING.

GPG

4 Replies

  • racer4's avatar
    racer4
    Explorer
    Dec 15, 2016
    It looks like the OP is surprised that for gas engine Ford trucks, the FW (and Conv hitch) tow rating is about the same for SWR and DRW.

    It is NOT that the truck with DRW can't handle more weight, but instead that the truck with a gas engine can't handle more weight even with DRW.

    Clearly a diesel engine in said truck will substantially increase the tow rating.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Dec 15, 2016
    I am not quite sure what the OP is trying to say. I tow with the 6.2, and although a strong very good engine, with a great transmission, it has it's limits.

    With mine, it can carry all it is designed to tow, and still be under all ratings. If you need to carry more than 3,500 on the rear axle, then best go diesel, and consider DRW.

    Jerry
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    Dec 15, 2016
    The comparison is pulling ability not carrying capacitys. The reason for the difference is the difference between the 3.73 to 4.30 gear ratio.
    True the F250 payload is a lot less based on the mandated Max 10,000# payload!
  • MNGeeks61's avatar
    MNGeeks61
    Explorer
    Dec 15, 2016
    clicky

    Long and short of it - cargo capacity is much greater on the DRW's.

    2500 = 3,460

    3500
    DRW = 6,780
    SRW = min 3,290 max 4,710 (depends on GVWR)

    It's not all about towing capacity.

About Fifth Wheel Group

19,015 PostsLatest Activity: Jun 08, 2025