There's no indicated redline on the tach, but peak horsepower comes at 3000 rpm, and the owner's manual recommends shifting before 3750, with an operating maximum at 4000 rpm. But it's not rack-and-pinion, like an F-150, and you'll know it when you try to drift around a corner. Ford suggests that software adjustments, cylinder head improvements, and increased turbocharger boost are responsible for the increases. Approximate dry capacity including transmission fluid cooling system, actual refill capacities will vary based on vehicle application and transmission fluid cooling system. That's why the more you tow, the more you want diesel.
Therefore, we're not sure what the ballpark is supposed to be, but we got an average of 12. Our test driver noted the same thing during 60-to-0 panic stops at the track, where it took 161 feet to bring the Super Duty to a full stop. For those seeking more from the gasoline side of the Ford family, the 6. Wood-trim dash pieces work well with textured plastic dash surrounds. Because of this, there are no gaps in the torque curve, just a steady buildup of power as you feed in throttle. The LoadOur load in this case was a 21-foot Skipjack, a rugged older boat loaded with fuel and camping gear. Steering remained within the expectations of a big truck with a straight front axle.
And for those venturing off into the Great Unknown, an optional navigation system should get you there and — hopefully — back again. The driver's seat is well shaped and supportive, firm but not hard. This pickup was made to haul something that probably already burned down a lesser truck. Fortunately, Ford seems to have hit a home run with the 6. Both horsepower and torque were once again increased for the 2018 model year, peaking at 450 hp and 935 lb-ft, respectively.
Beyond the imposing edifice are new fender-mounted vents, available telescoping mirrors and optional 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. Even replacing the wheels with something more stylish, or adding bigger tires with a specialized tread, can compromise the load ratings. At times on the highway, average mileage climbed close to 14 mpg, so we think it would be reasonable to expect that much and a little better on the highway once the engine is broken in. The amount of transmission fluid and fluid level should be set by the indication on the dipstick's normal operating range. The engine also takes advantage of sequentially mounted twin turbochargers, which provides such benefits as reduced turbo lag and improved overall performance characteristic. The emissions equipment on the 6.
Constituting some 40 percent of Ford's F-Series sales, the Super Duty is intended to secure the most profitable segment of the pickup market. Driving ImpressionsOur sense is that the empty F-250 probably rides a little better than an empty Tundra. That sounds like a lot of weight, but actually staying within these requirements can be problematic for any trailer owner. And, unlike some luxury pickups, there's no intention of appealing — overtly — to the Country Club set; this remains a work truck and not a work-in-progress. Diesel versus GasEverything about the 6. Our engine, with just 530 miles on it when we started, is far from broken in. When it comes time for new tires, it would be wise to pay attention to replacement tire choices, especially if you plan to tow near the limit.
That could affect steering and braking, giving the front axle less braking and steering power than normal, and putting the braking burden more on the rear axle alone. Like a lot of diesels, an engine-block heater is recommended when temp is -10 degrees F, which is more a precaution against fuel waxing than for engine protection. The first Super Duty's sold featured the early 390 horsepower engine rating. The engines are assembled in Chihuahua, Mexico. In back Ford includes a hitch receiver — matched to each model's capabilities — on every Super Duty, along with seven-pin and four-pin connectors. This helps lower combustion temperatures and increase engine longevity. We'll start at the front, where Ford has located a front step bumper — under-the-hood checks are made easier when the step-stool is built-in and not something you need to carry with you.
Accessing the bed is made easier — and safer — by the why-didn't-they-think-of-this-before tailgate step option. Like most people, we had no idea what our boat really weighed, so we made a trip to a certified truck scales and got in line with a bunch of big-rigs. Better cooling means, of course, bigger towing. Vehicle Details With the debut of the current F-Series, Ford established a benchmark for pickup interiors. This is the kind of truck that takes your big problem and makes it go away.
Owners of the 390 hp model were able to receive a free dealer installed upgrade to achieve the new 400 hp power rating. Lariat and King Ranch owners will enjoy dual-zone climate control. Visually, our truck and trailer looked about level, but we still took some time to shift what had to be at least 150 pounds of tools, spare batteries, and emergency equipment to the rear. With the Crew Cab, the back row actually offers more legroom than in front. It's rated to tow up to 12,500 pounds with a weight-distributing hitch. There are a total of eight cupholders, counting the two in the flip-down console in the back seat.
This is the first Power Stroke not manufactured by long time partner, International Navistar. Mounted on an older trailer equipped with surge brakes, this kind of load presents a challenge because the tow vehicle isn't given the advantage of a weight-distributing hitch or electric brakes. The transmission is strong, set for smooth shifts rather than direct, hard shifts. Additionally, it streamlines the warranty process, which was partially responsible for souring the relationship between Ford and International in regards to problems with the 6. Ford has recently done interiors well, in terms of design and use of materials, and this Super Duty cockpit is no exception. Quieter and cleaner than its predecessors, the 6. With one of those and a fifth-wheel hitch, you can tow up to a 24,000-pound trailer, making a rig that could weigh up to 33,000 pounds and still be within the recommended capacity.
Around town, it's possible to make a full stop with no grab or jerk at the end. Although the cleanest and most powerful engine supplied to Ford by International, it would also be the last as Ford would begin offering their own design beginning the 2011 model year. Finally, there's the aforementioned 6. The powertrain warranty is five years or 60,000 miles. A sticker that is applied during production will need to be removed in order to see the serial number.