Vehicle Overview
Changes to Ford’s one-ton F-350 Super Duty full-size pickup truck echo those of the three-quarter-ton F-250. A new Harley-Davidson model joins the series in 2004, and later in the model year, SuperCab and Crew Cab versions may be equipped with an optional power sliding rear window.
Ford introduced a potent new powertrain for its heavy-duty pickup truck line early in 2003. The 6.0-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel engine delivers 325 horsepower and 560 pounds-feet of torque and works with a five-speed TorqShift automatic transmission. Buyers may choose two other engines for the F-350 Super Duty: a gasoline V-8 or V-10.
The full-size F-350 Super Duty pickups come in regular-cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab configurations. Each is offered in XL, XLT and Lariat trim levels. An FX4 Off-Road model includes skid plates, Ranch shock absorbers and a steering damper. During the 2003 model year, a King Ranch option group became available. An XLT Sport package also is offered for Crew Cab and SuperCab pickups.
The new Harley-Davidson model comes in three body colors and has 18-inch aluminum wheels, a chrome tubular step bar, a Harley-Davidson Bar & Shield insert and other distinct styling cues.
Exterior
The F-350’s front-end styling is similar to the F-250’s; both display a bolder, more upright grille than the one on the half-ton F-150. Full-size F-350 Super Duty pickups are available with a choice of five wheelbases and either a 6.75- or 8-foot cargo box. Regular-cab models have two doors, while SuperCab pickups add rear half-doors. Crew Cab models have four, conventional, front-hinged doors. These pickups may have rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive and single or dual rear wheels on each side.
Ford’s King Ranch option features lighted running boards, premium aluminum wheels, body-colored mirror housings and Arizona Beige wheel lip moldings. The XLT Sport package includes chrome tubular step bars, body-colored exterior accents, a sliding rear window, fog lamps and privacy glass.
Heated and telescoping trailer-tow mirrors with integrated turn signals, a power moonroof — intended for Crew Cab pickups — and Ford’s Reverse Sensing System are optional.
Interior
Either two or three occupants can fit into a regular-cab pickup, depending on the seat type. SuperCab and Crew Cab models hold up to five or six passengers.
The King Ranch version adds premium leather interior trim. The XLT Sport package includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 40/20/40-split front bench seat with twill cloth upholstery.
Under the Hood
A 260-hp, 5.4-liter V-8 serves as the standard F-350 Super Duty engine. Optional engines include a 310-hp, 6.8-liter V-10 that produces 425 pounds-feet of torque and a 6.0-liter turbo-diesel V-8 that generates 325 hp and 560 pounds-feet of torque. The diesel engine teams with a five-speed-automatic or six-speed-manual gearbox. The two gasoline engines mate with the six-speed manual or a four-speed-automatic transmission. Towing capacities range from 7,800 to 14,200 pounds, depending on the engine, rear wheels and drive configuration.
Safety
Only the federally required front airbags are installed. Antilock brakes are standard.
