2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a robust truck capable of towing a significant amount of weight, depending on its configuration, ranging up to a maximum of 21,000 pounds.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 21,000 lbs (conventional), 18,500 lbs (5th-wheel/gooseneck)
• Max Payload: 4,270 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 10,000 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Up to 28,700 lbs
• Curb Weight: Approximately 5,660 - 7,725 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Hitch Class: Class V (or higher for some configurations), with conventional tongue weight ratings up to 2,100 lbs (with weight distribution hitch)

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty offers two powerful engine options, each impacting towing and payload capacities. The following table provides a general overview – always verify specific ratings for your truck on the door jamb sticker.

Note: The Max Conventional Towing capacity listed for the 6.7L Power Stroke includes the use of a weight-distributing hitch for capacities over 15,000 lbs. Without a WDH, the conventional towing capacity is typically limited to 15,000 lbs.

Tow Package Contents

Ford offers comprehensive towing packages for the 2019 F-250 Super Duty to enhance its towing capabilities and improve safety. Key components often included are:

• Trailer Tow Package: This package typically includes a 7-pin and 4-pin trailer tow connector, and an upgraded rear axle. For the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, an engine exhaust brake is also standard, which aids in controlling speed while descending grades when towing.
• Trailer Brake Controller (TBC): An integrated trailer brake controller is often standard or available as an option. This system allows for seamless and proportional braking of the trailer, greatly improving control and safety.
• Trailer Sway Control: Utilizing the truck's existing stability control system, trailer sway control can detect and mitigate trailer sway by selectively applying the truck's brakes and reducing engine power, helping to maintain control in adverse conditions.
• Transmission Cooler: All 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty trucks are equipped with a heavy-duty transmission cooler from the factory to help manage transmission temperatures under heavy load.
• Upgraded Axle Ratios: Different axle ratios are available and can significantly impact towing capacity. Lower (numerically higher) axle ratios generally increase towing capability.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty is well-equipped for 5th-wheel and gooseneck towing, especially when configured with the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel engine. Max 5th-wheel/gooseneck towing capacity can reach up to 18,500 lbs. These towing methods distribute weight more evenly over the truck's axles, often allowing for higher towing capacities and improved stability compared to conventional hitch towing. Ford offers a factory-installed 5th-wheel/gooseneck prep package, which includes a frame-mounted hitch receiver and wiring harness.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For conventional towing applications, particularly when approaching the upper limits of the F-250's capacity or when towing a trailer with a substantial tongue weight, a weight-distributing hitch (WDH) is highly recommended or, in some cases, required. A WDH helps to distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across the tow vehicle's and trailer's axles, restoring proper vehicle handling, braking, and tire wear. For the 2019 F-250 Super Duty, conventional towing capacities over 15,000 lbs require the use of a weight-distributing hitch.

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

• Know Your Numbers: Always check the specific weight ratings on your truck's door jamb sticker and the trailer's VIN plate. Never exceed your truck's GVWR, GCWR, GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating), or hitch's tongue weight rating.
• Proper Loading: Distribute the trailer's cargo evenly, aiming for 10-15% of the total trailer weight as tongue weight for conventional trailers, and 15-25% for 5th-wheel/gooseneck trailers. Too much or too little tongue weight can lead to instability.
• Pre-Trip Checks: Before every tow, ensure tires (truck and trailer) are properly inflated, lights are working, trailer brakes are adjusted and functional, and all connections are secure.
• Driving Habits: Allow for increased braking distances, accelerate gradually, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Utilize the truck's Tow/Haul mode and engine exhaust brake (if equipped) on inclines and descents.
• Maintenance: Regularly inspect your truck's brakes, tires, cooling system, and transmission fluid, especially if you frequently tow heavy loads.

Common Towing-Related Issues

• Overloading: Exceeding any of the truck's or trailer's weight ratings is dangerous and can lead to mechanical failure, reduced handling, and potential legal issues.
• Improper Trailer Setup: Incorrect tongue weight, unadjusted trailer brakes, or a poorly balanced load can cause trailer sway, reduced braking performance, and excessive wear on vehicle components.
• Transmission Overheating: While the F-250 has a robust cooling system, continuous heavy towing in extreme conditions can still challenge the transmission. Monitoring transmission temperature is always good practice.
• Tire Issues: Underinflated or overloaded tires on either the truck or trailer can lead to blowouts, reduced stability, and compromised safety.

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