F250 or F350

[MStat]

DW mentioned that perhaps we should start looking for new TV and being a typical fella, that was interpreted as let's get a new TV not just look.

We're kinda looking at both the F250 and F350, equality equipped same engine, tranny, axle ratio, tires, trim etc, etc, etc. F250 has GVWR of 10000k, F350 - 11500

We tow a 36ft TT empty weight 8300lbs, Trailer GVWR of 9500. Tongue weight of 1200lbs. We've currently got a using a F250 which pulls it fine.

Decision was made long ago that we'd never get a fifth wheel due to physical limitations.

There were some issue getting in & out of the one F350 we test drove but we've got an adaptation plan in place (small step as a first step that would have to be placed on the ground) But did not have the same issue in a F250 we also test drove.

We're going out again to just climb in and out of a couple more, to see if this one 350 had some different configuration that caused the problem.

Basic question to others is, should we get the F350 and use our adaptation plan or get a F250? Would the F350 really provide a better towing experience than a F250?

Yes they are both 4WD. That is one of her requirements.

Thank you.

[goducks10]

I'll buck the bigger is better trend and say go F250. It's obvious from your post that physical conditions will exempt you from a 5th wheel. The good thing about a 3/4 ton is they're great for TT's and not so great for 5th wheels if you get the diesel option.
I would get tired of having to put a step out all the time just for the sake of having more payload that you'll never use.

I would be looking more at the day to day use.

[shepstone]

My f250 has snow plow prep which seams to make it nose high, maybe the f350 you drove has it also?. The springing options on these can be confusing at times

[BB_TX]

The difference in cost of an F250 vs an F350 is about $1,000 or less. Compared to the total price of the trucks that is minimal.

We have a 2012 F350 FX4 and, yes, it is pretty high up. But with the wide running boards, standard I think on the King Ranch, and grab handles even the DW at 5'-4" has no problem getting in it. Two wheel drive trucks are shorter.

If you are confident you will never go heavier or larger, then go with the F250 if it seems to fit better. If there is any doubt in your mind that you might someday move up a notch or two, then go with the F350.

[Lynnmor]

Are you looking at a new F250? The last model year has the blocks at the springs so it sits higher than previous models. Years 2011 to 2014 the F250 did sit lower than the F350, but now are about the same. Please note that I may not have the years exactly right.

You can add springs or air bags to an F250 if you find it sags too much when loaded. I added air bags to mine.

[downtheroad]

That would be an easy decision for me (us).
Go with the 350/3500.
Not that much more $
Very little ride difference
Same size (dimensions)
Lots more payload.

[Tom_Barb]

Would you ever expect increasing the load beyond the 2500 capacity ? why pay more for the 3500?

[Hank85713]

Is one a 4x? That would be the only difference that would cause entry exit problems I think. The 4x being higher. You could also use some amp steps that may be lower than the cab steps. Yes when we tried the different chices back when we bought our F350, the 250 did ride differently and did not seem to be as stable. But we ended up with a 4X due to the dealer screw up on lot inventory, and basically got it for the price of a 2wd vehicle.

We like our F350 and it is our none towing vehicle of choice for road trips. Wife wanted and we got a Cl B+ RV for here as she tired of the TT! Still have it however.