Vehicle Overview
Rated at one ton, the full-size F-350 Super Duty pickup truck comes in regular-cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab configurations and is offered in XL, XLT and Lariat trim levels. Dual-rear-wheel versions are available for greater hauling capacity. When properly equipped, an F-350 pickup can haul as much as 17,000 pounds.
For 2005, a new 6.8-liter V-10 generated 52 horsepower more than its predecessor, and the 5.4-liter V-8 gained 40 hp. Ford claimed the new TowCommand System with an integrated electric trailer-brake controller was an industry first. Design revisions for 2005 incorporated elements of the Mighty F-350 Tonka concept truck.
Equipment that was previously included just in the Lariat Luxury Package is standard in all Lariat models for 2006. An Amarillo Package for Lariat Crew Cab models features Blazing Yellow paint, 18-inch forged aluminum wheels, black leather seating surfaces and other extras. A Chrome Package is available for XLT and Lariat SuperCab and Crew Cab trucks. Forged polished-aluminum 20-inch wheels are available on SRW Crew Cab 4×4 Lariat, King Ranch and Amarillo editions.
Exterior
Ford says “sharp edges and vertical bar surfaces provide a milled appearance” on Super Duty models. The F-350’s front-end styling is similar to that of 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 can have rear- or four-wheel drive and single or dual rear wheels on each side.
Front tow hooks are standard. XLT models feature a chrome front bumper and bright grille, versus an argent grille for the XL. Stepping up to the Lariat edition adds cab steps, fog lamps and a sliding rear window.
Interior
Either two or three occupants can fit inside a regular-cab pickup. SuperCab and Crew Cab models hold up to four, five or six people, depending on the model.
Extra equipment on the XLT includes air conditioning, power windows and locks, cloth seats, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel and a CD player. Power front seats with leather surfaces go into Lariat models.
Under the Hood
Three engines are available in the F-350 Super Duty. The 5.4-liter V-8 produces 300 hp, while the 6.8-liter V-10 is rated at 362 hp and 457 pounds-feet of torque. An available 6.0-liter turbo-diesel V-8 generates 325 hp and 570 pounds-feet of torque. A six-speed-manual transmission is standard, and a five-speed automatic is optional.
Safety
Dual front airbags and antilock brakes are standard. Side-impact airbags are not available.
