2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck capable of towing a substantial amount, with its maximum towing capacity reaching up to 35,700 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 35,700 lbs (5th-wheel/Gooseneck) / Up to 21,000 lbs (Conventional)
• Max Payload Capacity: Up to 7,850 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 10,600 – 14,000 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 23,500 – 43,000 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Curb Weight: Approximately 6,069 – 7,725 lbs (varies significantly by configuration)
• Hitch Class: Class V (Integrated into bumper or frame-mounted receiver)
  • Max Conventional Tongue Weight: 2,100 lbs (with 21,000 lbs tow capacity) – requires a weight distribution hitch for trailers over 5,000 lbs.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty offered three powerful engine options, each contributing to its impressive towing and payload capabilities. The figures below represent maximum capacities; actual capacities will vary based on cab type, bed length, drivetrain, trim level, axle ratio, and specific options. Always refer to your vehicle’s door jamb sticker for the most accurate information.

Note: The 2020 F-350 Super Duty ratings generally align with SAE J2807 standards, providing a consistent and comparable measure of towing capability.

Tow package contents

Ford offers several features and packages to enhance the towing experience of the F-350 Super Duty. Key components often include:

• Trailer Tow Package (Standard on most models): Includes the essential wiring harness with 7-pin and 4-pin connectors and a heavy-duty trailer hitch receiver.
• Trailer Tow High Capacity w/Upgraded Rear Axle (Specific configurations): Optimizes the truck for maximum conventional towing capacity.
• Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Package: (Required for 5th-wheel and gooseneck towing) Provides the necessary bed-mounted attachment points and a 7-pin wiring harness in the bed.
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC): This system applies braking power to an electric trailer brake system, proportional to the F-350's braking, promoting smoother and safer stops. It's often factory-installed or available as an option.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): An extension of the AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC) system, TSC helps maintain trailer control under adverse towing conditions by selectively braking individual wheels and/or reducing engine power.
• Transmission Cooler: Heavy-duty trucks like the F-350 are generally equipped with robust transmission cooling systems as standard due to their intended use. An auxiliary transmission oil cooler helps prevent the transmission from overheating during strenuous towing.
• Upfitter Switches: Six user-configurable switches, factory-installed, providing a convenient way to power aftermarket accessories like auxiliary lighting or air compressors.
• Trailer Camera System (Optional): Provides a clear view of the trailer, aiding in maneuvering and monitoring.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty, especially in Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) configurations with the 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel engine, is an excellent platform for 5th-wheel and gooseneck towing. With a maximum 5th-wheel/gooseneck tow rating of 35,700 pounds, it can easily handle large RVs, heavy equipment trailers, and other substantial loads. For these types of trailers, the Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Package is essential, providing the proper mounting points in the truck bed.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For conventional trailers weighing over 5,000 lbs, a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is strongly recommended for the 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty. A WDH helps to distribute the tongue weight of the trailer more evenly across the tow vehicle's axles and the trailer's axles. This helps to maintain steering and braking control, reduce sag at the rear of the truck, and improve overall stability. While the F-350 is a heavy-duty truck, using a WDH for heavier conventional trailers can significantly enhance safety and performance.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Know Your Weights: Always verify the actual weight of your loaded trailer and the tongue weight. Never exceed your F-350's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR), Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), or the hitch's weight ratings.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every tow, check tire pressure on both the truck and trailer, ensure all lights are working, verify trailer brakes are functioning, and confirm all connections are secure.
• Proper Loading: Load your trailer correctly, aiming for about 10-15% of the trailer's weight on the tongue for conventional trailers, and 15-25% for 5th-wheel/gooseneck trailers. Improper loading can lead to trailer sway and instability.
• Drive Conservatively: Allow for increased stopping distances, take wider turns, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Adjust your speed for road conditions, wind, and traffic.
• Monitor Temperatures: Keep an eye on your engine and transmission temperatures, especially on long grades or in hot weather. The F-350's gauges or an aftermarket monitor can help.
• Trailer Mirrors: Utilize extended or towing mirrors for better visibility around your trailer.

Common towing-related issues

Even with a robust truck like the F-350, towing can present challenges:

• Overheating: While less common in Super Duty trucks due to heavy-duty cooling systems, extreme loads or conditions can still lead to engine or transmission overheating. Ensure cooling systems are well-maintained.
• Tire Wear/Failure: Heavy towing puts extra stress on tires. Ensure your tires are properly inflated for the load and are in good condition. Consider LT (Light Truck) tires with appropriate load ratings.
• Brake Wear: Increased weight means increased braking demands. Regularly inspect your truck and trailer brakes. The integrated trailer brake controller helps distribute the braking load.
• Suspension Sag: Heavy tongue weight can cause the rear of the truck to sag. While the F-350 has a robust suspension, auxiliary airbags or overload springs can provide additional support and level out the ride.
• Trailer Sway: This can be caused by improper loading, high winds, or passing large vehicles. Trailer sway control systems are a great help, but proper setup is key.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.