The Ford Super Duty (short for F-Series Super Duty) is a series of heavy-duty pickup trucks produced by the
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (commonly known as Ford) is an American multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. It was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903. The company sells automobi ...
since the 1999 model year. Slotted above the consumer-oriented Ford
F-150
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford Motor Company, Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger (Americas), Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is market ...
, the Super Duty trucks are an expansion of the Ford F-Series range, from the F-250 to the F-550. Rather than adapting lighter-duty trucks for heavier use, Super Duty trucks have been designed as a dedicated variant of the Ford F-Series, including pickup trucks and
chassis-cab vehicles; the Ford F-450 is the largest pickup truck offered for sale in North America.
Currently in their fourth generation, Super Duty trucks use a separate chassis from the F-150, including heavier-duty frame and chassis components, which allows for heavier payloads and towing capabilities. With a
GVWR
Vehicle weight is a measurement of wheeled motor vehicles; either an actual measured weight of the vehicle under defined conditions or a gross weight rating for its weight carrying capacity.
Curb or kerb weight
Curb weight (U.S. English) or kerb ...
over , Super Duty pickups are
Class 2 and 3 trucks; chassis cab trucks are offered in Class 4 and 5 sizes. The model line also offers
Ford PowerStroke V8 diesel engines as an option.
Alongside pickup trucks and chassis cabs, the Super Duty line includes medium-duty F-Series trucks (F-650 and F-750); the Super Duty pickup truck also served as the basis for the
Ford Excursion
The Ford Excursion is a heavy duty ( Class 2), full-sized SUV that was produced by Ford. The longest and heaviest SUV ever to enter mass production, the Excursion was marketed as a direct competitor of the 2500-series (-ton) Chevrolet Suburba ...
full-sized SUV.
Ford F-250 to F-550 Super Duty trucks are assembled at the
Kentucky Truck Plant
Kentucky Truck Plant is an automobile manufacturing plant owned by Ford Motor Company in Louisville, Kentucky. The plant on opened in 1969 and currently employs 8,500 people total. The hourly production workers are represented by The United Autom ...
in
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville ( , , ) is the largest city in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the 28th most-populous city in the United States. Louisville is the historical seat and, since 2003, the nominal seat of Jefferson County, on the Indiana border ...
, while medium-duty
F-650 and F-750s are assembled at
Ohio Assembly
Ohio Assembly Plant, or "OHAP", is a Ford Motor Company factory located in Avon Lake, Ohio. The 3,700,000 square foot plant sits on 419 acres and opened in 1974 to produce the Ford Econoline/E-Series van. It produced the Mercury Villager and Nis ...
in
Avon Lake, Ohio
Avon Lake is a city in northeastern Lorain County, Ohio, United States, located on the southern shore of Lake Erie about 17 miles west of Cleveland. The population was 25,206 at the 2020 Census. It is part of the Cleveland metropolitan area.
Hi ...
. Prior to 2016, medium-duty trucks were assembled in Mexico under the
Blue Diamond Truck
Blue is one of the three primary colours in the RYB colour model (traditional colour theory), as well as in the RGB (additive) colour model. It lies between violet and cyan on the spectrum of visible light. The eye perceives blue when ob ...
joint venture with Navistar International.
Background
Previous use of name
In 1958, Ford introduced the
Super Duty engine family as large-block V8 engines for trucks, offered in 401, 477, and 534 cubic-inch displacements. The largest-block V8 engines ever built by Ford Motor Company, the Super Duty engines were the largest mass-produced gasoline V8 engines in the world (for road-going vehicles).
To showcase the engine launch, the "Big Job" conventional truck variants of the F-Series were rebranded as Super Duty, a name added to other Ford trucks as well. Alongside the
Ford C-Series
The Ford C series is a range of trucks that was assembled by Ford between 1957 and 1990. The first cab-over engine (COE) truck produced with a tilting cab by Ford, the C-series replaced the C-series COE variant of the F-series, produced since 19 ...
and H-Series cabovers, the N-Series conventional adopted the Super Duty name. Though its poor fuel economy proved uncompetitive against the increasing popularity of diesel engines, the durability of the Super Duty V8 kept the engine in production until 1981.
In 1987, Ford revitalized the name as a
Class 4 truck badged as "F-Super Duty". Manufactured solely as a chassis cab vehicle, these trucks were the heaviest F-Series trucks at the time, offered only with the 7.5L gasoline V8 or the 7.3L diesel V8.
F-Series change
In response to the changing demographics of pickup truck purchases during the 1980s and 1990s, as part of the redesign of the F-Series for the 1997 model year, the model family began a split into two model families, introducing the
1997 Ford F-150 as the first of two distinct F-Series lines. While still functioning as a full-size pickup, the F-150 adopted carlike aerodynamics and convenience features to expand its appeal among consumers. To appeal towards commercial and fleet buyers and owners who tow, the F-250 and F-350s were developed as a separate, dedicated heavy-duty truck platform (in place of using one chassis for all of its trucks). By expanding the model line into two separate but related platforms, the inevitable compromises inherent in offering a wide range of load-carrying capacities were avoided.
Prior to the release of the Ford Super Duty series, the previous-generation F-250HD and F-350 returned for sale for 1997 and 1998 (alongside a separate 1997/1998 F-250 light duty based upon the F-150).
First generation (1999–2007)
![Ford250superduty](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5a/Ford250superduty.jpg)
Beginning production in early 1998 for the 1999 model (the 1998 model year was skipped), the Ford F-Series Super Duty consisted of the F-250 pickup truck, F-350 pickup truck and chassis cab, and introduced the F-450 and F-550 chassis cab trucks ''(see below)''. The Super Duty trucks were produced with three cab configurations - two-door standard cab, 2+2 door SuperCab, and four-door crew cab. The SuperCab configuration of the Super Duty marked the introduction of two standard rear-hinged doors on the extended cab, a feature also adopted by the F-150 and Ranger/Mazda B-Series for 1999. The standard-cab pickup was produced with an 8-foot bed; SuperCab and crew cabs were produced with a 6 3/4-foot bed, with an 8-foot bed optional. Chassis cab models came with more and different bed length and wheelbase options, but with the same cabs. Two-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive as an option; on F-350 pickup trucks, a dual rear-wheel axle was optional with either drive configuration.
Styled by Andrew Jacobson (designer of the 1997 Ford F-150) and
Moray Callum
Moray S. Callum (born 19 November 1958) is a Scottish automobile designer who was Vice President, Design for Ford Motor Company, having retired on 1 May 2021. His elder brother Ian Callum was the Design Director of Jaguar from 1999 to 2019.
Ea ...
, aside from taillamp lenses and the tailgate, the Super Duty F-Series trucks share no visible exterior parts with the Ford F-150. Under the skin, only the base-equipment 5.4-liter V8 and 4R100 transmission are shared. While sharing the similar aerodynamic cab design of its smaller counterpart, the exteriors of the Super Duty trucks are much different forward of the windshield. While an influence often compared to the
1994–2002 Dodge Ram, the Super Duty also derives elements of styling from much larger Ford trucks, including the
Ford LTL-9000 and Aeromax, with a raised hood line, large grille, and low fenders. A feature drawn from 1996 redesign of the Louisville/Aeromax was in the design of the side window openings; the front portion is lowered, allowing for increased side visibility (as well as larger sideview mirrors). To improve aerodynamics over metal-framed mirrors, manual-telescoping trailer-tow mirrors were available as an option. As an industry first, two large, complete, ring-style front tow hooks were included. A minor update occurred in the 2002 model year, which received a new instrument cluster with a digital odometer.
2005 update
![Ford F4000 stakebed](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6c/Ford_F4000_stakebed.jpg)
For the 2005 model year, the Ford Super Duty trucks were given exterior and interior updates. For the exterior, a new grille, front bumper, and headlights were introduced alongside the introduction of a locking
tailgate for all pickup trucks. Under the skin (with thicker frame rails), updated Triton gasoline engines were introduced with higher engine output and larger
alternators
An alternator is an electrical generator that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy in the form of alternating current. For reasons of cost and simplicity, most alternators use a rotating magnetic field with a stationary armature.Gord ...
; in response to the increased power, all trucks were given four-wheel
disc brakes
A disc brake is a type of brake that uses the calipers to squeeze pairs of pads against a disc or a "rotor" to create friction. This action slows the rotation of a shaft, such as a vehicle axle, either to reduce its rotational speed or to hol ...
(with two-piston calipers). To accommodate the larger brakes, 17-inch wheels became standard, with 18-inch wheels optional (on single rear-wheel trucks); forged Alcoa wheels were an option. The long-running Twin I-Beam front suspension continued on two-wheel drive trucks.
To the interior, several changes were made to improve functionality for end users. Along with the addition of a driver-side glove compartment, the truck added the option of dashboard-mounted auxiliary switches (for owners who fit equipment such as snowplows, winches, and auxiliary lights); these are switches that were typically user designed. For users who tow, a new option was
Ford TowCommand The optional factory in-dash installed Ford Motor Company "TowCommand" integrated TBC (Trailer Brake Controller) system available and compatible on the heavy duty commercial Ford Super Duty line of trucks starting with the 2005 models. TowCommand ha ...
, a
trailer brake controller A brake controller is usually an original equipment manufacturer or aftermarket-installed device or module. It is mounted to the tow vehicle's driver's-side dashboard area, and engages a trailer's electrical braking system either time delayed, or in ...
built into the dashboard, allowing it to integrate with the ABS system and engine computer from the factory.
Mechanical details
During its production, the first-generation Ford F-Series Super Duty was sold with two gasoline and two diesel engine options.
Gasoline engines
Replacing the overhead-valve engines used in previous F-Series models, for the Super Duty, Ford transitioned to the Triton overhead-cam engine family (truck versions of the
Ford Modular engine
The Ford Modular engine is Ford Motor Company's overhead camshaft (OHC) V8 and V10 gasoline-powered small block engine family. Despite popular belief that the Modular engine family received its moniker from the sharing of engine parts across num ...
s).
At its launch, the standard engine in the Super Duty was a
Triton V8. Producing and of torque, the SOHC 16-valve V8 was shared with the F-150 and
Ford E-Series
The Ford E-Series (also known as the Ford Econoline or Ford Club Wagon) is a range of full-size vans manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company. Introduced for model year 1961 as the replacement for the Ford F-Series panel van, the E-Se ...
. During 1999, the engine was re-tuned to . In 2005, the cylinder heads were redesigned to three-valve design, converting it to a 24-valve V8 with variable camshaft timing (VCT); output was increased to and of torque.
As a replacement for the long-running 7.5 L/460 V8, for the Super Duty, Ford introduced a
Triton V10. A SOHC 20-valve engine, the V10 produced and of torque. In 2005, the V10 also received three-valve non-VCT cylinder heads, increasing its output to and of torque.
Both the V8 and V10 Triton engines are designed with a fail-safe cooling system to protect the engine in case of major coolant loss. If the engine overheats, the engine will continue to operate on half of its cylinders. Alternating back and forth between each set of four (or five) pistons, the set that is not receiving fuel and ignition is operating to pump air through the engine to lower its temperature. Although engine output is limited, dependent on upon vehicle load, outside temperature, and current road conditions, the system is designed to allow the vehicle to travel a short distance to receive service or to reach a repair facility.
Diesel engines
Available in both F-250 and F-350 pickup trucks, as well as F-450 and F-550 chassis cabs, the F-Series was sold with optional
PowerStroke
Power Stroke is the name used by a family of diesel engines for trucks produced by Ford Motor Company and Navistar International (until 2010) for Ford products since 1994. Along with its use in the Ford F-Series (including the Ford Super Duty tru ...
V8 diesel engines produced under its joint venture with
Navistar International
Navistar, Inc is an American holding company created in 1986 as the successor to International Harvester. Navistar operates as the owner of International-branded trucks and diesel engines. The company also produces buses under the IC Bus br ...
.
At its launch, the F-Series Super Duty was sold with the
7.3 L Power Stroke V8. Initially producing 235 hp/500 lb-ft of torque, the engine was retuned in 2001. Versions equipped with an automatic transmission produced 250 hp, while manual-transmission examples produced 275 hp; with either transmission, the engine produced 525 lb-ft of torque. As the 7.3 L V8 was no longer able to comply with noise regulations for diesel engines, it was discontinued midway through the 2003 model year.
As a running change during the 2003 model year, the
6.0 L Power Stroke V8 was introduced as the replacement for the previous 7.3 L V8 in LHD markets supplied with the American-assembled trucks, while RHD ones supplied from Brazil kept the 7.3 L until 2005. As before, the engine continued to be produced by Navistar. A 32-valve pushrod engine, the 6.0 L V8 featured a single variable-vane turbocharger. While a smaller-displacement engine than its predecessor, its output is higher than the 7.3 L, providing and of torque (in 2005, the torque increased to ). Due to problems with the head bolts Navistar re-designed the engine with reinforced heads, more torque and power, releasing the new design in 2005–2006. As with its predecessor, the 6.0 L ended its production run due to tighter emissions requirements, replaced as part of the Super Duty redesign for the 2008 model year.
The 6.0 L Power Stroke was the target of a class-action lawsuit, alleging the engines were defective. Ford settled the lawsuit with owners and former owners of 6.0 L diesel-equipped Super Duty trucks and E-Series vans in 2013, by reimbursing them for the cost of repairs to the
exhaust gas recirculation
In internal combustion engines, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is a nitrogen oxide () emissions reduction technique used in petrol/gasoline, diesel engines and some hydrogen engines. EGR works by recirculating a portion of an engine's exhaust ...
system, fuel injectors, and
turbocharger
In an internal combustion engine, a turbocharger (often called a turbo) is a forced induction device that is powered by the flow of exhaust gases. It uses this energy to compress the intake gas, forcing more air into the engine in order to pro ...
, which were common failure points.
Transmissions
Four
transmissions were available. Several configurations of the ZF5 five-speed manual transmission were offered: small block pattern, big block pattern, and diesel. Close-ratio and wide-ratio gearings were available, as well as 4WD and 2WD configurations with the exception of integrated driveshaft brake 2WD versions using the 4x4 style transmission. Earlier s5-42 versions were rated to 570 Nm (420 ft-lb) of torque, while later s5-47 versions were rated to 636 Nm (470 ft-lb).
ZF six-speed manual for diesel engines. An optional
4R100 four-speed automatic was available for either the gasoline or diesel engines, later being replaced with the
TorqShift five-speed automatic. The five-speed automatics are rated at exactly (1000 ft-lb), enabling higher towing capacity than trucks with the standard five- or six-speed manual transmission. The six-speed manual transmission used an integrated PTO.
=Torqshift 5R110
=
The Torqshift five-speed 5R110 automatic transmission replaced the four-speed in the 2003 model year diesel trucks to compete with the Allison 1000 series from General Motors; it was paired with the new 6.0 L diesel engine. The TorqShift design, in fact, has six forward ratios, but only five are advertised, with the 'hidden' gear only used in extreme cold weather. The TorqShift first to fifth gear ratios are 3.11, 2.22, 1.55, 1.00, and 0.71:1. It also uses an alternate fourth gear, overdrive on second gear of the three-speed automatic component (0.72 × 1.55), that is 1.10:1 that is used under cold start conditions to aid engine and transmission warm up. On the TorqShift; once the Tow/Haul mode is activated, it can help increase a driver's control when towing large loads up and down steep grades and automatically minimizes shifts and maximizes available torque. Upon descent, the Tow/Haul mode uses engine braking to help extend brake life and improve driver control. An adaptive shift function monitors the TorqShift's performance over its lifetime and adjusts shift pressures in real time to assure consistent shift feel and compensate for wear. For ease of maintenance, the TorqShift's oil filter is an easily serviced, cartridge design that was usually mounted on the passenger side behind the front bumper. Also, the TorqShift's larger fluid lines and a larger transmission oil cooler help to assure cooler operating temperatures, even under the most demanding conditions. This was Ford's first automatic transmission to feature a
power take-off
A power take-off or power takeoff (PTO) is one of several methods for taking power from a power source, such as a running engine, and transmitting it to an application such as an attached implement or separate machine.
Most commonly, it is a sp ...
(PTO). The transmission can be equipped with an integrated PTO provision (which automatically locks the
torque converter
A torque converter is a type of fluid coupling that transfers rotating power from a prime mover, like an internal combustion engine, to a rotating driven load. In a vehicle with an automatic transmission, the torque converter connects the power ...
providing power to the PTO gear when the operator turns on the PTO switch).
=Transfer case and 4x4
=
On 4WD models, a choice was available of either a manual, chain-driven
transfer case
A transfer case is a part of the drivetrain of four-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and other multiple powered axle vehicles. The transfer case transfers power from the transmission to the front and rear axles by means of drive shafts. It also syn ...
floor shifter with manual front
locking hubs
Locking hubs, also known as free wheeling hubs are fitted to some (mainly older) four-wheel drive vehicles, allowing the front wheels to rotate freely when disconnected (unlocked) from the front axle. This is done to reduce the mechanical resist ...
or electronic shift-on-the-fly (a $185 option over the manual) dash knob with vacuum-activated automatic, and (in case of failure) manual override front hubs. The optional FX4 models are basically a standard 4WD with an Off-Road package that includes upgraded heavy-duty Rancho shocks, added skid plates for the fuel tank and transfer case, and two "FX4" decals on both back bed sides instead of the standard "4x4". For all 4WD models, the two-speed transfer case 4x4-LOW range has a gear reduction of 2.72:1. Brazilian and Venezuelan versions had only the ESOF transfer case.
Suspension
For the first-generation Super Duty range, Ford used several different suspension configurations, depending on the model of truck. All pickup models have heavy-duty
leaf spring
A leaf spring is a simple form of spring commonly used for the suspension in wheeled vehicles. Originally called a ''laminated'' or ''carriage spring'', and sometimes referred to as a semi-elliptical spring, elliptical spring, or cart spring, it ...
s and staggered
shock absorbers
A shock absorber or damper is a mechanical or hydraulic device designed to absorb and damp shock impulses. It does this by converting the kinetic energy of the shock into another form of energy (typically heat) which is then dissipated. Most sh ...
. A standard
stabilizer bar is included on dual rear-wheel models and an option on single rear-wheel versions. An optional slide-in camper certification package with heavier-duty springs was available on single rear-wheel models. All versions of the Super Duty trucks came equipped with four-wheel disc brakes.
On 2WD F-250 and F-350 pickups, the Twin I-Beam independent front suspension with coil springs was used; their 4WD counterparts were equipped with solid front axle (
Dana 50
The Dana/Spicer Model 50 was an automotive axle manufactured by the Dana Holding Corporation for 25 years and was used solely in OEM Ford applications. Dana 50's were made as front axles only until it was revived in rear solid axle configuration in ...
and
Dana 60
The Dana/Spicer Model 60 is an automotive axle manufactured by Dana Holding Corporation and used in OEM pickup and limited passenger car applications by Chevrolet, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ford and Land Rover. There are front and rear versions of t ...
) with leaf springs. In 2005, the front suspension was updated as 4WD trucks were converted to front coil springs; to reduce unsprung weight, the mounting of the front sway bar was changed to the frame instead of the front axle. The manual locking hubs on Super Duty trucks are made by Warn.
The F-250 and F-350 single-rear wheel versions were fitted with a
Sterling 10.5 axle
The Sterling 10.5 axle is an automotive axle manufactured by Ford Motor Company at the Sterling Axle Plant in Sterling Heights, MI. It was first used in model year 1985 Ford trucks. The axle was developed to replace the Dana 60 and Dana 70. The ...
35-spline axle with choices of conventional or limited-slip differentials; initially developed for previous-generation Ford trucks, it was strengthened for use in the Super Duty. In dual-rear wheel F-350s, the rear axle was a
Dana 80
The Dana/Spicer Model 80 is an automotive axle manufactured by Dana Holding Corporation and has been used in OEM heavy duty applications by Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford. It can be identified by its straight axle tubes, 10 bolt asymmetrical cover, a ...
.
On F-450 and F-550 chassis cab trucks, the Dana 60 front axle was replaced with a
Dana Super 60 in 2005; 2008-2010 and 2015-2018 F-450 pickups used
Dana S 110
The Dana/Spicer Model S110 is an automotive axle manufactured by the Dana Holding Corporation and the Eaton Corporation. Eaton manufactures the carrier and Dana manufactures the rest of the axle. The S110 model follows a newer nomenclature for D ...
rear axles, while 2011-2014 F-450 pickups used Dana 80 axles. All F-450 chassis cabs used a Dana S 110, while F-550s used a Dana 135 from 1999 to 2004 and an S 110 from 2005 on.
=F-250 solid axle
=
The Dana 50 axle featured on most F-250 Super Duty trucks differs greatly from the early models. The Dana 50 started out as a
Twin Traction Beam
Twin-Traction Beam (TTB) is an independent suspension system for front drive axles in four-wheel drive Ford F-Series trucks and sport utility vehicles.
Background
Twin-Traction Beam was invented by John A. Richardson and Donald G. Wheatley of Fo ...
axle (much like
independent suspension
Independent suspension is any automobile suspension system that allows each wheel on the same axle to move vertically (i.e. reacting to a bump on the road) independently of the others. This is contrasted with a beam axle or deDion axle system in w ...
) in 1980 and lasted to 1997 models. The Super Duty models then used a solid axle version of this axle. The ring, pinion, carrier, and U joints all remained the same, however. The Dana 50 was phased out of the trucks in 2004, in favor of the Dana 60, and was last used in the Ford Excursion.
Trim levels
Throughout its production run, the first-generation 1999-2007 Ford F-Series Super Duty was offered in three main trim levels:
The base XL was the "work truck" trim level. Its standard features included a manual transmission, an AM/FM stereo with two front door-mounted speakers, a heater and blower, vinyl-trimmed seating surfaces with bench seats, steel wheels with black center hubs, black front and rear bumpers, a black "egg-crate" front grille, and manual windows and door locks. Optional features that were offered on this trim level included cloth-trimmed seating surfaces or vinyl- and cloth-trimmed seating surfaces, power windows and door locks, an AM/FM stereo with cassette player (later, a single-disc CD player instead of a cassette player) and four speakers, chrome front and rear bumpers as part of an XL Decor Group, an automatic transmission, and air conditioning.
The midrange XLT was the most popular trim level. It added these features to the base XL trim level: an AM/FM stereo with cassette player (later, a single-disc CD player instead of a cassette player) and four speakers, cloth-trimmed seating surfaces, bright center wheel hubs, chrome front and rear bumpers, a chrome "egg-crate" front grille with black inserts, power windows and door locks, and air conditioning. Optional features that were offered on this trim level included aluminum wheels, keyless entry (later, this option became standard equipment on this trim level), an AM/FM stereo with both a cassette player and a single-disc CD player (later, a six-disc, in-dash CD changer), an automatic transmission, and a power-adjustable front driver's bench seat.
The top-of-the-line Lariat was the most luxurious trim level. It added these features to the mid-range XLT trim level: an AM/FM stereo with both a cassette player and a single-disc CD player (later, a six-disc, in-dash CD changer), leather-trimmed seating surfaces, chrome-clad (later aluminum) wheels and center wheel hubs, keyless entry, a security system, electronic climate controls, a power front bench seat with fold-down center armrest, wood interior trim panels, and a chrome front grille with chrome inserts. Available options included two-tone exterior paint, color-keyed grille insert as well as front & rear bumpers, bucket seats replacing the bench seat, heated front seats, and an automatic transmission (which later became standard on this trim level).
Special editions
There were multiple special edition Super Duty models that were offered.
For 2003, a special Centennial Edition Super Duty Crew Cab was offered to celebrate the 100th anniversary of
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (commonly known as Ford) is an American multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. It was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903. The company sells automobi ...
. The truck could be ordered only as a Crew Cab, but a choice of bed lengths, dual or single rear ends and gasoline or diesel engines were available. The Centennial Edition offered as standard equipment: monochromatic black clearcoat exterior, premium Verona-grain Imola leather seating finished in two-tone parchment, Special Centennial Edition badging, and a commemorative keychain and wristwatch. The Centennial Edition also came with special leather-bound owner's manual with the embossed signatures of
Henry Ford
Henry Ford (July 30, 1863 – April 7, 1947) was an American industrialist, business magnate, founder of the Ford Motor Company, and chief developer of the assembly line technique of mass production. By creating the first automobile that mi ...
,
Edsel Ford
Edsel Bryant Ford (November 6, 1893 – May 26, 1943) was an American business executive and philanthropist who was the son of pioneering industrialist Henry Ford and his wife, Clara Jane Bryant Ford. He was the president of Ford Motor Company f ...
,
Henry Ford II
Henry Ford II (September 4, 1917 – September 29, 1987), sometimes known as "Hank the Deuce", was an American businessman in the automotive industry. He was the oldest son of Edsel Ford I and oldest grandson of Henry Ford I. He was president ...
, and
William Clay Ford Jr.
William Clay Ford Jr. (born May 3, 1957) is an American businessman, serving as executive chairman of Ford Motor Company. The great-grandson of company founder Henry Ford, Ford joined the board in 1988 and has served as chairman since January 19 ...
Ford offered a special
Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson, Inc. (H-D, or simply Harley) is an American motorcycle manufacturer headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States. Founded in 1903, it is one of two major American motorcycle manufacturers to survive the Great Depressi ...
Super Duty truck from 2004 to 2007. Available only on single rear wheel models, the Harley package could be had as either SuperCab or Crew Cab and customers could choose either V10 gas or 6.0 L PowerStroke turbodiesel power. Based upon the Lariat trim, Harleys had a unique black leather interior, with the Bar and Shield logo adorning the front and rear captain's chairs (SuperCab models had a rear bench). Heated seats, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, and power-adjustable heated mirrors round out the standard equipment. Unique spun-metal gauge faceplates embroidered carpeted floor mats, and a leather-wrapped console lid with individually serial numbered badging round out unique interior appointments. The 2004 Harleys could be had with three unique paint schemes, Competition Orange/Black Clearcoat two-tone, Dark Shadow Gray/Black Clearcoat two-tone, or a Black Clearcoat solid paint job. Unique pinstriping was found on all three of the color options.
In 2003, Ford began to offer its King Ranch trim package to the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks. This included rich Castaño leather seats, steering wheel audio and climate controls, front heated seats, 18-inch aluminum wheels (single) or 17-inch wheels (dual), and an improved instrument panel.
Changes to the Harley package in 2005 corresponded to the refresh of the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty models. No longer could one order a SuperCab Harley-Davidson, and the 5.4 L V8 was added as the base engine for the package. New unique, black-trimmed headlights, billet-style grille, and 20-inch wheels were made standard. Gone were the two-tone paint jobs, but optional was painted ghost flames; 2005 models could be had in two color options, Black or True Blue Metallic. The interior stayed largely the same, with luxurious black leather captain's chairs in the front and rear and Harley Bar and Shield badging galore, but the truck got the same interior updates as other '05 Super Dutys.
F-450/F-550
To bridge the gap between the pickup line and the much larger medium-duty F-650/F-750, Ford introduced the F-450 and F-550 variants of the Super Duty; with an available GVWR from 17,950 to 19,500 lb, it pushes the Super Duty into the Class 5 truck market. Available only as a chassis cab, both versions were fitted with dual rear wheels.
While largely aimed at fleet buyers, F-450 and F-550 models were configurable in XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels available to Super Duty pickup buyers. The sole gasoline engine was the 6.8 L V10, while the 7.3 L Power Stroke was the diesel option; in 2003, this was replaced by the 6.0 L Power Stroke.
In 2005, the F-450 and F-550 received further updates to the exterior than the rest of the Super Duty line, with an extended front bumper and front fenders; the F-550 received a "wide-track" front axle to sharpen its turning radius.
Worldwide
The Ford F-350 Super Duty first generation was also assembled in Venezuela as a commercial small truck from 1999 to 2010. For this market, the F-350 featured the 5.4 L V8 Triton engine, a five-speed manual transmission, and a choice of 4WD or 2WD.
Ford Super Duty trucks were built in Brazil, with different engines from their North American counterparts and fewer options, initially between 1999 and 2011, with a limited reintroduction of the F-350 in 2014. The dual-rear wheel variant of the F-350 is known locally as F-4000. They were widely exported to Australia (F-250 and F-350), South Africa (F-250), and Argentina (F-250, rebadged as F-100, and the F-350 DRW rebadged as F-4000), usually following the Brazilian specification (with an obvious change of the cockpit location in the versions targeted to Australia, South Africa, and other RHD markets), but Australia had a wider range of options in pair with its American counterparts, including automatic transmission and the V8 engines. The SuperCab was never officially available in Brazil and regional export markets (Uruguay and Argentina), but was made in RHD for export to Australia. South Africa had only the MWM engine and five-speed manual transmission, with the option of 2WD and 4WD for the single cab, while the crew cab had 4WD as standard.
Second generation (2008–2010)
The second-generation Super Duty was supposed to debut for model year 2007, but quality issues pushed it back to the 2008 model year. It features an all-new
PowerStroke
Power Stroke is the name used by a family of diesel engines for trucks produced by Ford Motor Company and Navistar International (until 2010) for Ford products since 1994. Along with its use in the Ford F-Series (including the Ford Super Duty tru ...
diesel V8 with piezo fuel injectors and
sequential turbos to replace the 6.0 L PowerStroke single-turbo diesel V8. The new engine produces 350 hp (260 kW) and of torque. The vehicle had its first official showing at the Texas State Fair in 2006. Ford started taking orders in January 2007. The first 2008 F-450 pickup sold to the public, was delivered to Randy Whipple of Muskegon, Michigan, in February 2007.
Located near the same dash area as the last generation (but slightly to the right and more directly below the radio), this generation of Super Duty models has the same
Ford TowCommand The optional factory in-dash installed Ford Motor Company "TowCommand" integrated TBC (Trailer Brake Controller) system available and compatible on the heavy duty commercial Ford Super Duty line of trucks starting with the 2005 models. TowCommand ha ...
trailer brake controller and four AUX Upfitter switches as the last generation set-up.
An optional concealed slide-out step and swing-up hand grab bar were added to the rear tailgate for easy access.
Ford introduced its all new optional "Rapid-Heat Supplemental Cab Heater", only available on Super Duty trucks with the diesel engine and TorqShift automatic transmission. In the winter, it quickly raises the cabin temperature to a comfortable level until the engine is warm enough to handle the job.
The interior of the Super Duty was completely redesigned, with a new instrument cluster (with an enhanced message center) with similar styling to that of the 11th generation F-150 (2004-2008), as well as new steering wheel, center dash bezel, interior door panels, and seat trim.
Sirius Satellite Radio
Sirius Satellite Radio was a satellite radio (SDARS) and online radio service operating in North America, owned by Sirius XM Holdings.
Headquartered in New York City, with smaller studios in Los Angeles and Memphis, Tennessee, Memphis, Sirius ...
, a 3.5 mm auxiliary audio input jack (for all models equipped with a
CD player
A CD player is an electronic device that plays audio compact discs, which are a digital optical disc data storage format. CD players were first sold to consumers in 1982. CDs typically contain recordings of audio material such as music or aud ...
or
CD changer
A CD player is an electronic device that plays audio compact discs, which are a digital optical disc data storage format. CD players were first sold to consumers in 1982. CDs typically contain recordings of audio material such as music or audi ...
), a new "premium" audio system with an external amplifier and subwoofer, and a
GPS
The Global Positioning System (GPS), originally Navstar GPS, is a Radionavigation-satellite service, satellite-based radionavigation system owned by the United States government and operated by the United States Space Force. It is one of t ...
navigation system A navigation system is a computing system that aids in navigation. Navigation systems may be entirely on board the vehicle or vessel that the system is controlling (for example, on the ship's bridge) or located elsewhere, making use of radio or othe ...
radio with a
touchscreen
A touchscreen or touch screen is the assembly of both an input ('touch panel') and output ('display') device. The touch panel is normally layered on the top of an electronic visual display of an information processing system. The display is often ...
display were all new features. In 2009, the
Ford SYNC
Ford Sync (stylized Ford SYNC) is a factory-installed, integrated in-vehicle communications and entertainment system that allows users to make hands-free telephone calls, control music and perform other functions with the use of voice commands. ...
entertainment system became available on select trim levels, adding
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology standard that is used for exchanging data between fixed and mobile devices over short distances and building personal area networks (PANs). In the most widely used mode, transmission power is limi ...
hands-free calling and wireless stereo audio streaming via
A2DP
In order to use Bluetooth, a device must be compatible with the subset of Bluetooth ''profiles'' (often called services or functions) necessary to use the desired services. A Bluetooth profile is a specification regarding an aspect of Bluetooth-b ...
and a
USB
Universal Serial Bus (USB) is an industry standard that establishes specifications for cables, connectors and protocols for connection, communication and power supply (interfacing) between computers, peripherals and other computers. A broad v ...
port for the first time on the Super Duty.
Trim
This second generation of Super Duty trucks includes the F-250 (starting at $22,380), F-350 (starting at $24,025), and the all-new F-450 (starting at $39,205). The F-250 and F-350 basically had the same payload and towing specifications as the last generation.
The model lineup for the 2010 F-250 and F-350 consisted of the XL (starting at $25,300), XLT (starting at $28,845), Lariat (starting at $36,420), Cabela's (starting at $42,655), King Ranch (starting at $42,955), and Harley-Davidson (starting at $56,925).
The model lineup for the F-450 consisted of the XL (starting at $44,145), XLT (starting at $49,525), Lariat (starting at $52,965), King Ranch (starting at $56,955), and the Harley-Davidson (starting at $62,625).
The FX4 model, which was once just an optional off-road 4x4 package that could be added to any model in the lineup, is replaced by the 4x4 Off Road Package. The FX4 became a model of its own. It still had the same specs as the previous generation but with more of a sporty trim package. The FX4 model has been discontinued for the 2010 model year and has been reverted to an optional Off Road 4X4 package.
*''XL'' - Included: Vinyl upholstery, 5.4L Triton V8, 17" steel wheels with all-season tires, rear folding bench seat (XL Crew Cab), an AM/FM stereo with digital clock and 2 speakers, black vinyl floor covering, visors, sealed-beam halogen lamps, manual windows, manual locks, and manual side-view mirrors.
*''XLT'' - Added: 18" steel wheels, cloth upholstery, lumbar support, power locks, power mirrors, power windows with automatic driver's side window, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo with a single-CD player with MP3 capability, an auxiliary input jack, a digital clock and four speakers, cruise control, color coordinated carpet floor covering, tilt steering wheel, and dual-beam headlamps.
*''FX4'' (2008-2009) - Added: 17" forged aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires, automatic headlamps, illuminated entry, keyless entry with driver door keypad, securi-lock anti-theft ignition, a security alarm, FX4 cloth upholstery, black all-weather floor mats, metallic faced cluster with chrome faced gauges, overhead console with sunglasses storage, and a black-leather wrapped steering wheel.
*''Lariat''- Added: Power driver and passenger seats, leather upholstery, automatic air conditioning, enhanced message center with distance to empty and compass, color-coordinated leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, visors with illuminated mirrors, and woodgrain style accents for the dash, and later, Ford SYNC.
Special Editions
For 2008, Ford and
Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson, Inc. (H-D, or simply Harley) is an American motorcycle manufacturer headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States. Founded in 1903, it is one of two major American motorcycle manufacturers to survive the Great Depressi ...
once again joined forces to bring out a new special edition Super Duty. The Harley-Davidson package was available on both F-250 and F-350 Crew Cab SRW models. A gasoline engine was no longer offered with the package; instead, a 6.4 L Power Stroke turbo diesel was standard. Unique black and dusted copper two-tone leather captain's chairs with bar and shield logo, leather-trimmed center console, unique gauge cluster, and embroidered carpeted floor mats rounded out interior features. 20" wheels, billet-style grille, blacked out headlights, illuminated cab steps, power folding body-color Powerscope mirrors, rubber bed mat with Harley-Davidson logo and special badging were the exterior highlights. The truck could be ordered with two unique exterior themes, a black monochromatic look with bodyside graphics or a black and vintage copper two-tone with chrome dimensional box side ''Harley-Davidson'' lettering. An Audiophile premium 8-speaker stereo with subwoofer was standard, while a DVD-based navigation system was optional. Rear seat DVD entertainment system with 8" screen was also optional but could not be ordered with the power moonroof.
Also in 2008, a 60th anniversary package was available to celebrate 60 years of the F-Series brand, featuring two-tone paint, additional chrome trim, and special badging. 2,500 were to be built. It was only made in the XLT trim.
The Harley-Davidson package returned for 2009 with some changes. For the first time, the Harley-Davidson package was offered on the F-450 DRW pickup. The interior was trimmed in all black leather, instead of the two-tone for 2008. New colors were offered, Black with flame tape stripes, Black with Vista Blue painted flames or Dark Blue Pearl with Vista Blue painted flames. Ford's ''ToughBed'' spray on bedliner and a rearview camera were made options.
For 2010, only minor changes were made. Dark Blue Pearl was deleted from the color options in favor of Black with Tuxedo Black painted flames and the rearview camera was made standard. 2010 was the final year Ford offered a Harley edition Super Duty.
For 2009 and 2010, a special Cabela's edition was available in the Crew Cab FX4 configuration. This version included a basic package and a luxury package. The basic package includes cloth captain's chairs, wood trim on center stack, all-weather floor mats, front and rear locking firearm storage, and an AM/FM radio. The luxury package includes everything in the basic package but includes leather seats and a navigation-based radio. In addition, both versions feature special badging and two-tone paint options.
Powertrain
The same two gas engines are carried over and rated exactly the same from the 2nd generation. The 3-valve V8 SOHC is standard. The 3-valve V10 SOHC was still a $699 option over the 5.4L V8. The 4-valve Navistar
V8 OHV Power Stroke diesel engine was the diesel engine option and was a $6,895 option over the V8.
F-450 pickup
There are some unique points to highlight of the 2008–2010 F-450 with a regular production pickup bed, which was only offered as a
chassis cab
A chassis cab, also called a cab chassis or half truck, is a type of vehicle construction, often found in medium duty truck commercial vehicles.
Instead of supplying the customer with a factory pre-assembled flatbed, cargo container, or other eq ...
before. It has 2 available axle ratios of 4.30 and 4.88:1. The F-450 with the optional "High Capacity Trailer Tow Package" increases the
GCWR
Vehicle weight is a measurement of wheeled motor vehicles; either an actual measured weight of the vehicle under defined conditions or a gross weight rating for its weight carrying capacity.
Curb or kerb weight
Curb weight (U.S. English) or kerb ...
from 26,000 to . Maximum payload is . The maximum towing capacity is (4.88 axle ratio) or (4.30 axle ratio). It comes standard with Crew Cab, long bed, DRW (Dual Rear Wheels), Limited Slip rear axle, 10-lug
Forged wheels made by
Alcoa
Alcoa Corporation (an acronym for Aluminum Company of America) is a Pittsburgh-based industrial corporation. It is the world's eighth-largest producer of aluminum. Alcoa conducts operations in 10 countries. Alcoa is a major producer of primary ...
, Trailer Tow package, and the
TowCommand The optional factory in-dash installed Ford Motor Company "TowCommand" integrated TBC (Trailer Brake Controller) system available and compatible on the heavy duty commercial Ford Super Duty line of trucks starting with the 2005 models. TowCommand ha ...
TBC (
Trailer Brake Controller A brake controller is usually an original equipment manufacturer or aftermarket-installed device or module. It is mounted to the tow vehicle's driver's-side dashboard area, and engages a trailer's electrical braking system either time delayed, or in ...
). The only engine offered in the F-450 is the 6.4 L V8 Power Stroke
sequential turbo diesel. The F-450 is equipped with a standard 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed TorqShift
automatic transmission
An automatic transmission (sometimes abbreviated to auto or AT) is a multi-speed transmission used in internal combustion engine-based motor vehicles that does not require any input from the driver to change forward gears under normal driving c ...
.
File:Ford F-250 Super Duty Harley-Davidson Crew Cab.jpg, Ford F-250 Super Duty Harley-Davidson crew cab
File:2008 Ford F-450.jpg, 2008 Ford F-450 crew cab
File:Ford F-550 Super Duty (Sterling Ford).JPG, Ford F-550 Super Duty
Third generation (2011–2016)
The Super Duty line received a significant exterior upgrade that includes a new, bigger front fascia. Its engines were also upgraded to better compete with the new
Silverado HD and
Ram HD. Ford stated in the 2011 Chicago Auto Show that the 2011 trucks have the thickest gauge steel frame of any truck in its class; this was due to the frame being the same design that debuted in 1999. The 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty was awarded Truckin's "Topline Pulling Power" award for 2011. It also won Popular Mechanics best workhorse of 2011, and the best "Gear of the Year" in the trucks category.
The F-450 is able to tow and has a maximum payload of . The F-350 has a maximum of towing capacity and of payload depending on configuration. Each engine is mated to a 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission. The Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 all come with trim levels including the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum.
The 3rd generation of the Ford Super Duty trucks were assembled at Ford's Kentucky Truck Plant, with additional production for other countries in Venezuela and Mexico. In Venezuela, the F-350 was offered as a commercial use small truck cutaway featuring a 6.2L V8 gas engine with a 5-speed manual
TREMEC
TREMEC (Transmisiones y Equipos Mecánicos SA de CV, formerly Transmission Technology Corporation, TTC) is a manufacturer of automobile transmissions and drivetrain components based in Querétaro, Mexico.
Company
Torque transfer solutions from ...
transmission TR-4050 with a choice of 4x2 or 4x4 wheel drive. Since 2012 due to government regulations, the Venezuelan F-350 Super Duty is factory equipped to use both
natural gas
Natural gas (also called fossil gas or simply gas) is a naturally occurring mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons consisting primarily of methane in addition to various smaller amounts of other higher alkanes. Low levels of trace gases like carbo ...
and gasoline. The F-250 Super Duty was also recently re-introduced in this market after ten years. It is being marketed using the same engine as the Venezuelan F-350, but only with a 6-speed automatic transmission, 4x2 or 4x4 wheel drive option in both single and double cab configurations.
A feature unique to the 2011 Super Duty is the addition of a
locking differential
A locking differential is a mechanical component, commonly used in vehicles, designed to overcome the chief limitation of a standard open differential by essentially "locking" both wheels on an axle together as if on a common shaft. This forces ...
. It is only available for the F-250 and SRW F-350 4x4 models with a rear
Sterling 10.5 axle
The Sterling 10.5 axle is an automotive axle manufactured by Ford Motor Company at the Sterling Axle Plant in Sterling Heights, MI. It was first used in model year 1985 Ford trucks. The axle was developed to replace the Dana 60 and Dana 70. The ...
. It is a US$390 option. The diesel F-250 relies on vacuum-boost brakes, while the F-350 relies on Hydro-boost. Both gas versions of the F-250 and SRW F-350 use vacuum-boost. F-250 is a
class 2 truck. While the F-350 SRW, F-350 DRW, & F-450 ''pickup'' are
class 3. The F-250 and F-350 (SRW & DRW) have 13.66-inch front brakes and 13.39-inch inch rear brakes. The 2015-2016 F-250 and F-350 have 14.29-inch vented disc brakes on the front and rear axles as an improvement made for these model years. The F-450 ''pickup'' has 14.53-inch front brakes and 15.35-inch rear brakes. The F-450 has a wider track than the F-350. The F-450 remains available in
class 4 as a chassis cab truck.
The trucks were once under investigation by the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA ) is an agency of the U.S. federal government, part of the Department of Transportation. It describes its mission as "Save lives, prevent injuries, reduce vehicle-related crashes" rela ...
for steering failures, but the investigation revealed the failures were driver error and had nothing to do with design.
For the 2011
model year
The model year (sometimes abbreviated "MY") is a method of describing the version of a product which has been produced over multiple years. The model year may or may not be the same as the calendar year in which the product was manufactured.
...
, the central bezel from the second-generation (2008-2010) Super Duty was kept, although features such as a full color
LCD
A liquid-crystal display (LCD) is a flat-panel display or other electronically modulated optical device that uses the light-modulating properties of liquid crystals combined with polarizers. Liquid crystals do not emit light directly but in ...
instrument panel display screen and a
Sony
, commonly stylized as SONY, is a Japanese multinational conglomerate corporation headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Japan. As a major technology company, it operates as one of the world's largest manufacturers of consumer and professional ...
premium amplified audio system with subwoofer were now available. An auxiliary audio input jack now came standard on all Super Duty models, regardless of radio choice.
In 2013, upper trim level Super Duties could be ordered with the new
MyFord Touch
Myford Limited is a British machine tool manufacturer originally based at 10-12 East Parade, Leeds, West Yorkshire in the United Kingdom under its former name of L & P 240 Limited. The company is notable for its continuation of production of Myfo ...
infotainment
Infotainment (a portmanteau of ''information'' and ''entertainment''), also called soft news as a way to distinguish it from serious journalism or hard news, is a type of media, usually television or online, that provides a combination of infor ...
system with
Ford SYNC
Ford Sync (stylized Ford SYNC) is a factory-installed, integrated in-vehicle communications and entertainment system that allows users to make hands-free telephone calls, control music and perform other functions with the use of voice commands. ...
, which included an eight-inch
touchscreen
A touchscreen or touch screen is the assembly of both an input ('touch panel') and output ('display') device. The touch panel is normally layered on the top of an electronic visual display of an information processing system. The display is often ...
display, a rear backup camera system, and
HD Radio
HD Radio (HDR) is a trademark for an in-band on-channel (IBOC) digital radio broadcast technology. It generally simulcasts an existing analog radio station in digital format with less noise and with additional text information. HD Radio is used ...
. The center bezel in these trucks was slightly redesigned to accommodate the new
infotainment
Infotainment (a portmanteau of ''information'' and ''entertainment''), also called soft news as a way to distinguish it from serious journalism or hard news, is a type of media, usually television or online, that provides a combination of infor ...
system, which was also paired with the
Sony
, commonly stylized as SONY, is a Japanese multinational conglomerate corporation headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Japan. As a major technology company, it operates as one of the world's largest manufacturers of consumer and professional ...
premium amplified audio system with subwoofer.
Trim
*''XL'' - Included: Vinyl upholstery, manual seats with cupholders and storage bin in front, manual locks, manual windows, 17" steel wheels (F-250/350) or 17" aluminum wheels (F-450), trailer brake controller (DRW), manual air conditioning, black vinyl floor covering, malfunction message center, manual towing mirrors, and an AM/FM stereo with digital clock and 2 speakers.
*''XLT'' - Added: 17" aluminum wheels, trailer brake controller, accessory delay, power locks, power windows with automatic driver's side window, cruise control, MyKey owner controls, security alarm, tinted rear windows, keyless entry, heated mirrors with turn signals, and an AM/FM stereo with single-CD player with MP3 capability, an auxiliary input jack and 4 speakers.
*''Lariat'' - Added: leather upholstery, flow through center console with lockable storage, a 120V power outlet, reverse parking aid, leather trimmed power front seats, air conditioning with auto temp control, auto-dimming rear view mirror, enhanced message center, a premium AM/FM stereo with single-CD player, MP3 capability, auxiliary input jack, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, steering wheel audio controls and 8 speakers with subwoofer, auto lamp with rain lamp feature, fog lamps, power sliding rear window, power heated mirrors with spotlights and turn signals, SecuriLock entry keypad, body colored handles, and Ford SYNC.
*''King Ranch'' - Added: chaparral-leather trimmed seats, heated and cooled front seats, chaparral leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, memory driver's seat, pedals and mirrors, rear view camera, remote start, King Ranch logo on seats and floor, and body color mirrors.
Powertrain
Engines
The 2011 Ford Super Duty is available with either a gas or diesel engine. The gas option is an E85-capable
6.2 L 2-valve SOHC Ford Boss V8, which puts out and of torque under GVWR, and of torque over 10,000 GVWR. The diesel is the new
6.7 L Power Stroke V8, producing and of torque.
The new engine is an entirely Ford product, unlike previous diesels, therefore reducing development costs and shipping delays. The 6.8-liter V10 was dropped from the regular Super Duty models, however it is still an option with the F-450 and F-550 chassis cabs, mated with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Shortly after the unveiling of the 6.7 L Power Stroke V8, GM unveiled the 2011
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a range of trucks manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Silverado is the successor to the long running Chevrolet C/K model line. Taking its name from th ...
and GMC Sierra 3500HD with Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8, making and of torque. Ford quickly responded by boosting the output of the Power Stroke just months after its initial release, to and of torque. For customers who purchased a Super Duty with the original Power Stroke V8, Ford offered a free upgrade at dealerships to the new level of output. Power and torque was increased to and of torque on 2015 models.
Transmission
No manual transmission is available in the United States, but in Mexico and Venezuela, the F-350 is available with a 5-speed manual. Automatic transmission features a manual mode. The diesel engine's transmission optionally features a PTO and is a "live-drive" unit. "Live-drive" meaning the PTO is directly connected to the engine's crankshaft, whereas the GM's
Allison 1000 transmission
The 1000 series (and similar 2000 and 2400 series) is a line of automatic transmissions for on-road trucks. All are 5 or 6-speed electronically controlled units and are manufactured by Allison Transmission in Indianapolis, Indiana as well as in Ba ...
and Ram's
Aisin
is a Japanese corporation that develops and produces components and systems for the automotive industry. Aisin is a Fortune Global 500 company, ranked 359 rankings. Aisin is a member of the Toyota Group of companies.
Aisin was founded in 1965 ...
use a
torque converter
A torque converter is a type of fluid coupling that transfers rotating power from a prime mover, like an internal combustion engine, to a rotating driven load. In a vehicle with an automatic transmission, the torque converter connects the power ...
or clutch (depending on being an automatic or manual, respectively).
Cooling system
On the 6.7 L diesel engine only, there are 2 separate cooling systems:
#High-temperature system that runs at to cool the engine.
#Low-temperature system with a coolant for the following:
:*fuel cooler
:*EGR system
:*transmission fluid
:*air-to-water inter-cooler
A belt-driven pump mounted low on the driver side circulates the high-temperature coolant, while a separate belt-driven pump mounted higher on the passenger side circulates the low-temperature coolant.
F-450 pickup
The F-450 pickup is available only in a single configuration; a crew cab with a dual rear-wheel bed. The only powertrain combination is the 6.7 L Powerstroke turbodiesel V8 mated to the six-speed TorqShift automatic transmission (model year 2020 and greater trucks are mated with the ten-speed TorqShift automatic transmission). Trims include the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum.
*Wheelbase: (Crew cab, long bed)
*Payload: (2011), (2012), (2013), (2015)
* Towing capacity: (2011), (2012), (2013), (2015)
*Front GAWR:
*Rear GAWR:
*
GVWR
Vehicle weight is a measurement of wheeled motor vehicles; either an actual measured weight of the vehicle under defined conditions or a gross weight rating for its weight carrying capacity.
Curb or kerb weight
Curb weight (U.S. English) or kerb ...
: (2011), (2012), (2013), (2015)
*
GCWR
Vehicle weight is a measurement of wheeled motor vehicles; either an actual measured weight of the vehicle under defined conditions or a gross weight rating for its weight carrying capacity.
Curb or kerb weight
Curb weight (U.S. English) or kerb ...
: , (2015)
*Axle gear ratio: 4.30:1
*
4x4
Four-wheel drive, also called 4×4 ("four by four") or 4WD, refers to a two-axled vehicle drivetrain capable of providing torque to all of its wheels simultaneously. It may be full-time or on-demand, and is typically linked via a transfer case ...
only. No two-wheel drive.
*
Alcoa
Alcoa Corporation (an acronym for Aluminum Company of America) is a Pittsburgh-based industrial corporation. It is the world's eighth-largest producer of aluminum. Alcoa conducts operations in 10 countries. Alcoa is a major producer of primary ...
forged wheels are the only available wheels.
** LT245/75R17 (2011-2014)
** MT225/70R19.5 (2015-2016)
Chassis cab
Chassis cab models were also updated using the new 2011 body style. Ford chassis cabs were still rated up to the industry maximum 19,500-pound Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. The Gross Combined weight was increased by to maximum, greater than the nearest competitor.
File:2013 Ford F-550 4x4 Single cab wrecker.jpg, 2013 F-550 4x4 Single Cab Rollback Tow Truck
Fourth generation (2017–2022)
On September 24, 2015, Ford unveiled the 2017 Ford Super Duty line at the 2015
State Fair of Texas
The State Fair of Texas is an annual state fair held in Dallas at historic Fair Park. The fair has taken place every year since 1886 except for varying periods during World War I and World War II as well as 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It ...
. This marks the first all-new Super Duty line since their 1998 debut; the frame is made from 95% high strength steel and the body (like the contemporary
F-150
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford Motor Company, Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger (Americas), Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is market ...
) is made from
6000 series aluminum alloy, advertised as a high-strength military grade aluminum alloy.
For the first time since 1999, both the Super Duty and F-150 lines are constructed using the same cab
to better compete with GM, Ram and Nissan's HD trucks. In a major departure, the stand-alone front grille and stepped front fenders seen since 1998 were eliminated from the exterior. The 2-bar grille introduced in 2011 was widened, integrating the headlights into its design.
In a switch to an aluminum-intensive body similar to the F-150, Ford created a potential of weight savings; in spite of the addition of heavier-duty frame and driveline components, the 2017 Super Duty weighs in at up to less than comparable 2016 models. Ford strengthened the frame and drivetrain with fortified
drive shaft
A drive shaft, driveshaft, driving shaft, tailshaft (Australian English), propeller shaft (prop shaft), or Cardan shaft (after Girolamo Cardano) is a component for transmitting mechanical power (physics), power and torque and rotation, usually ...
s, axles, brakes, towing hardware and the 4WD transfer case.
F-250 and F-350 pickups are built on a fully boxed frame; chassis cab models are produced on a frame boxed up to the rear of the cab and of open-C-channel design rearward.
For 2017 production, the Super Duty line shares its powertrain lineup with its 2016 predecessor: a 6.2L gasoline V8, 6.8L V10 (F-450 and above), with a 6.7L diesel V8 available in all versions. The 6.2L gasoline V8 engine remains at but torque rises from . Additionally, the gasoline V8 produces its max torque at over 700 rpm less than the previous engine. The 6.7L diesel engine also remains at the same but torque increases from upwards to . The diesel engine now produces its peak torque at 1,800 rpm instead of the previous 1,600 rpm. The F-250 receives a TorqShift-G six-speed automatic while all other Super Duty trucks are paired with the 6R140 6-speed automatic.
Crew Cab models will have a tank for the bed and fuel tank for the bed.
The interior design of the all-new Super Duty is similar to that of the 2015
Ford F-150
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks. ...
, and shares many of the F-150's components.
Trim levels will continue to be XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. The Limited trim would not debut for F-250 and F-350 until 2018. Cab configurations continue to be 2-Door Regular Cab, 4-Door Super Cab, and 4-Door Crew Cab (the F-450, in pickup truck configuration, is only available in this configuration until the 2019 model year with the addition of the regular cab), with Short Box (6' 9") and Long Box (8') bed lengths. The truck will be available in F-250, F-350, and F-450 pickup truck models, and F-350, F-450, and F-550 chassis cab models. All will be available in both 4X2 and 4X4 configurations. The F-350 will be the only model available in either Single Rear Wheel (SRW) or Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) configurations, the F-450 and F-550 will only be available in a Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) configuration, and the F-250 will only be available in a Single Rear Wheel configuration. Base prices in the U.S. range from $32,535 (F-250 XL) to $77,125 (F-450 Platinum). Full pricing is available on the manufacturer's website.
The 2018 F-450 was the first $100,000 pickup truck from the factory, with the addition of the new Limited trim, which first debuted on the 2013
Ford F-150
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks. ...
.
Engines
All engines will be paired with a "TorqShift" 6-speed automatic transmission, with the gasoline engines featuring 2 transmissions: 5-speed manual transmission (chassis cab F-350, Mexico-only), Ford's all-new "TorqShift-G" automatic transmission.
The Super Duty will be available in eleven exterior color options.
Safety recalls
On April 4, 2017, all Ford F-250 Super Duty trucks built between October 1, 2015, to April 1, 2017, were recalled due to the risk of improper and damaged rods in the parking brake and transmission allowing the truck to move while in park. This affected 52,000 trucks but no injuries or accidents were reported.
2020 refresh
The 2020 Super Duty debuted at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show in February. It features a revised grille and tailgate design, new wheel options, and higher-quality interior materials for the Limited trim. A new 7.3-liter gasoline engine is available. Nicknamed "Godzilla", it makes 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. The 6.7-liter Power Stroke engine has been strengthened, bumping output to and of torque. Ford's 10-speed 10R140 TorqShift automatic transmission is now standard with the diesel and 7.3-liter gasoline engines on the F-250 and all engines on the F-350; the 6-speed is still available, but only in the F-250 with the 6.2-liter engine.
2022 hydrogen fuel cell prototype
A F-550 Super Duty hydrogen fuel cell electric truck is being prototyped in cooperation with
Southern California Gas Co., as part of the
US Department of Energy
The United States Department of Energy (DOE) is an executive department of the U.S. federal government that oversees U.S. national energy policy and manages the research and development of nuclear power and nuclear weapons in the United State ...
's (DOE) SuperTruck 3 program.
F-600
For 2020, Ford reintroduced the F-600, a name that was last used in the late 1990s on a medium-duty truck. Based on the F-550 Super Duty, the F-600 medium-duty features the body and cab of a traditional Super Duty chassis cab but upgrades the chassis over and above the F-550 and offers no cab configurations besides single cab. The cab-to-axle options are retained. The F-600 chassis upgrades include upsized U-joints, an alteration to the diesel exhaust system to accommodate dynamic clearances for the larger U-joint crosses, upgraded brakes, and wider wheels (19x6.75" instead of 19x6") to support wider tires (245mm instead of 225mm) for increased tire load capacity. The model is geared towards fleet buyers who require the GVWR capacity of the heavier F-650 medium-duty but prefer the size and maneuverability of the smaller F-550 Super Duty. Available with either the 7.3L
Ford Godzilla engine
The Ford Godzilla engine is a V8 engine offered by the Ford Motor Company. The engine is intended to replace the Modular V10 engine and displaces the Boss V8 engine in many uses. The engine was first used with Ford Super Duty trucks starting wi ...
gasoline V8 or the 6.7L
Powerstroke
Power Stroke is the name used by a family of diesel engines for trucks produced by Ford Motor Company and Navistar International (until 2010) for Ford products since 1994. Along with its use in the Ford F-Series (including the Ford Super Duty tru ...
Turbodiesel V8 engine and paired with the TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission and two-wheel-drive (4X2) or four-wheel-drive (4X4), the F-600 Medium Duty went on sale in mid-2020.
*Front brakes:
*Rear brakes:
*Mid Fuel tank capacity:
*Rear tank:
*GCWR:
*GVWR:
*Payload:
*Hitch:
*Front sway bar:
*Rear sway bar:
Tremor (2020-Present)
![2021 F-250 Super Duty XLT Tremor in Carbonized Gray (front)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/89/2021_F-250_Super_Duty_XLT_Tremor_in_Carbonized_Gray_%28front%29.jpg)
For 2020, Ford reintroduced the Tremor name for the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickups. The nameplate was last used on the 2014
Ford F-150
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks. ...
as a sport appearance package. As an off-road oriented version of the F-250 and F-350 Super Duty, the Tremor models will compete directly with the
Ram
Ram, ram, or RAM may refer to:
Animals
* A male sheep
* Ram cichlid, a freshwater tropical fish
People
* Ram (given name)
* Ram (surname)
* Ram (director) (Ramsubramaniam), an Indian Tamil film director
* RAM (musician) (born 1974), Dutch
* Ra ...
2500 Power Wagon and feature a suspension lift and upgraded tires and wheels from the factory. The trucks also offer details not found on other Super Duty models, such as available blacked out accents on the front grille, wheels, side emblems, and side mirrors as well as 'Tremor' decals on the sides of the pickup box. Offered as a Crew Cab model with a 6-3/4-foot pickup box, and with four-wheel-drive (4X4), the Tremor comes with the new
7.3L "Godzilla" gasoline V8 engine as standard, while the 6.7L
Powerstroke
Power Stroke is the name used by a family of diesel engines for trucks produced by Ford Motor Company and Navistar International (until 2010) for Ford products since 1994. Along with its use in the Ford F-Series (including the Ford Super Duty tru ...
Turbo Diesel V8 engine will be optional (the
Ram
Ram, ram, or RAM may refer to:
Animals
* A male sheep
* Ram cichlid, a freshwater tropical fish
People
* Ram (given name)
* Ram (surname)
* Ram (director) (Ramsubramaniam), an Indian Tamil film director
* RAM (musician) (born 1974), Dutch
* Ra ...
2500 Power Wagon only offers a gasoline V8 engine).
Off-road upgrades include 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac maximum-traction tires, a specially tuned rear stabilizer bar, custom 1.7-inch piston twin-tube dampers, a Dana limited-slip front differential, Electronic Locking Rear Differential, off-road running boards, large skid plates, and extended-axle vent tubes. The Super Duty Tremor Off-Road Package has a very high ground clearance of and a class-leading water fording of . Also, the Super Duty Tremor Off-Road Package has the highest approach angle (31.65 degrees) and departure angle (24.51 degrees) of any Super Duty model ever built.
![2021 F-250 Super Duty Tremor](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/01/2021_F-250_Super_Duty_Tremor.jpg)
The new 10-speed "TorqShift" automatic transmission features Selectable Drive Modes with settings for Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, Eco, Tow/Haul, and Normal, as well as an exclusive Rock-Crawl mode. The Super Duty Tremor Off-Road Package also has a Trail Control feature, which is essentially cruise control for off-road driving. Crawl ratios are 53:1 for gasoline-equipped models, while the ratio for diesel-equipped models is 44:1. Another available feature for all Super Duty models (including the Tremor), is the Trailer Reverse Guidance System, which is similar to the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system in the
Ford F-150
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks. ...
and allows for the driver to easily back their truck and trailer with little effort. The all-new 2020
Ford
Ford commonly refers to:
* Ford Motor Company, an automobile manufacturer founded by Henry Ford
* Ford (crossing), a shallow crossing on a river
Ford may also refer to:
Ford Motor Company
* Henry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company
* Ford F ...
F-250 and F-350 Super Duty Tremor models went on sale in the Fall of 2019.
Fifth generation (2023-present)
The fifth generation Super Duty was revealed in September 2022. It is set to start production in early 2023.
Marketing
As of 2016, the Ford Super Duty is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Venezuela (F-250 and F-350), Suriname, Brazil (F-350/F-4000), Argentina (F-4000 only), Angola (F-250 and F-350), Cambodia, the Middle East, and Iceland (F-350 only) in left-hand drive (LHD) only.
In Suriname, though traffic is on the left side of the road, the import and registry of LHD vehicles is allowed.
In Australia, it was officially imported in right-hand drive from Brazil from 2001 to 2006, but as of 2007, Ford no longer offers the Super Duty in Australia.
Variants
Medium-duty trucks (F-650 and F-750)
![Beijing Air Catering truck 22 (20180628090004)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/16/Beijing_Air_Catering_truck_22_%2820180628090004%29.jpg)
In 2000, Ford returned to the Class 6-7 truck market as it expanded the Super Duty line into the medium-duty segment. They developed a joint venture with
Navistar International
Navistar, Inc is an American holding company created in 1986 as the successor to International Harvester. Navistar operates as the owner of International-branded trucks and diesel engines. The company also produces buses under the IC Bus br ...
known as Blue Diamond Trucks, the F-650 and F-750 Super Duty were assembled in Mexico. While the chassis and other components would be common to both manufacturers, Ford and International would each source their own bodywork and powertrain; the cab for the Ford trucks would be common with other Super Duty models.
For the 2016 model year, the medium-duty truck range was given a major upgrade, following the end of the joint venture and the shift of the production to the United States. In place of outsourced engines and transmissions, the 2016 F-650 and F-750 now use a 6.8L gasoline V10, a 6.7L PowerStroke diesel V8, and a 6-speed automatic transmission all supplied by Ford.
Sport-utility vehicles
![Ford Excursion XLT 2001 (14724593058)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/19/Ford_Excursion_XLT_2001_%2814724593058%29.jpg)
From 2000 to 2005, the F-250 Super Duty served as a basis for the
Ford Excursion
The Ford Excursion is a heavy duty ( Class 2), full-sized SUV that was produced by Ford. The longest and heaviest SUV ever to enter mass production, the Excursion was marketed as a direct competitor of the 2500-series (-ton) Chevrolet Suburba ...
sport-utility vehicle. Along with
Chevrolet Suburban
The Chevrolet Suburban is a series of automobiles built by the Chevrolet division of General Motors. The name started in 1934 for the 1935 U.S. model year, making it the longest continuously used automobile nameplate in production. It has tra ...
(and its Cadillac/GMC/Holden counterparts) and the
International Harvester Travelall
The International Harvester Travelall is a model line of vehicles that were manufactured by International Harvester; four generations were produced from 1953 to 1975. Derived from the International light truck line, the Travelall was a truck-based ...
, the Ford Excursion was one of the longest non-limousine sport-utility vehicles ever sold.
The Excursion was available in three trim packages, XLT, Limited, and top-of-the-line
Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer, LLC is an American clothing store chain headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Eddie Bauer sells its merchandise via retail stores, outlet stores, and online and via phone, with a call center in Groveport, Ohio. Its flagship store is ...
. It was offered in two or four wheel drive, and with three engine options: the
5.4L V8, the
6.8L V10, or the
Powerstroke V8 Turbodiesel. The Excursion was only available with an automatic transmission.
While the Excursion was sold mostly in North America and Mexico, a similar vehicle was sold in Brazil from 1998 to 2012 as a second-party conversion of the Ford F-250 crew-cab (similar to the
Centurion F-Series/Bronco conversions).
Armored vehicles
![KRAZ Spartan 2014 IMG 7628 02](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/eb/KRAZ_Spartan_2014_IMG_7628_02.JPG)
As a result of the heavy-duty frame and powertrain of its chassis, the Ford Super Duty has served as a donor platform for multiple types of armored vehicles, for civilian, law enforcement, and military use. Most versions are constructed using the Ford F-550 chassis cab. Examples include the
STREIT/KrAZ Spartan,
Didgori-2
The Didgori-II ( ka, დიდგორი-II) is an armoured multi-role and special operations vehicle produced by STC Delta. It was developed in 2009 alongside the Didgori-1 using the same internal features with some additional functions. The ar ...
,
Lenco BearCat
The Lenco BearCat is a wheeled SWAT vehicle designed for military and law enforcement use. It is in use by several military forces and law enforcement agencies around the world.
History
Since 1981 the Massachusetts-based Lenco Industries, known ...
,
Plasan Sand Cat
The SandCat ( he, פלסן קרקל) is a composite armored vehicle designed by the then Plasan Sasa (now Plasan) of Israel. The SandCat was shown publicly for the first time at AUSA during October 2005. The latest models were shown for the fir ...
,
GAV Gurkha,
APC Novator
The Novator ( ukr, Новатор) is a light armored vehicle, designed by the Ukrainian Armor company of Ukraine. Сreated for patrolling in mountainous terrain, ending public disorder, conducting special operations for the elimination of massiv ...
,
Conquest Knight XV, and
TAD Turangga
The TAD Turangga is an Indonesian armored infantry mobility vehicle developed by Tugasanda Defense (TAD). The name means horse in Javanese language, Javanese.
Design
The Turangga is built on the chassis of the Ford Super Duty, Ford 550 Heavy Dut ...
.
See also
*
Ford F-Series
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks. ...
- Overview of Ford full-size truck range
**
Ford F-series (medium duty) - medium-duty (Class 6–8) commercial trucks
**
Ford F-150
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford since the 1948 model year. Slotted above the Ford Ranger in the Ford truck model range, the F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks. ...
- standard-duty F-Series (current generation)
**
Ford P platform
Ford commonly refers to:
* Ford Motor Company, an automobile manufacturer founded by Henry Ford
* Ford (crossing), a shallow crossing on a river
Ford may also refer to:
Ford Motor Company
* Henry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company
* Ford F ...
- Ford full-size pickup truck chassis architecture
*
Ford Excursion
The Ford Excursion is a heavy duty ( Class 2), full-sized SUV that was produced by Ford. The longest and heaviest SUV ever to enter mass production, the Excursion was marketed as a direct competitor of the 2500-series (-ton) Chevrolet Suburba ...
- SUV variant of F-250 Super Duty
*
Ford Super Duty engine
The Ford Super Duty engine is a range of V8 engines that were manufactured by Ford Motor Company. Introduced in 1958, the Super Duty engines replaced the Lincoln Y-block V8 (alongside the smaller Ford MEL V8 engines).
By the end of the 1970s ...
- V8 truck engines (1958-1981)
References
External links
*
Ford F-4000 official site (Brazil)Ford Super Duty Dimensions (2008–2010)
{{Modern North American Ford trucks
Super Duty
Pickup trucks
Vehicles introduced in 1998
Motor vehicles manufactured in the United States
Rear-wheel-drive vehicles
All-wheel-drive vehicles
2000s cars
2010s cars
Class 3 trucks
Class 4 trucks
Class 5 trucks