Maximum Towing Capacity of a 2012 Ford F-350

Updated 08/11/2017 | Published 08/10/2017

Question:

We are considering buying a 2012 ford f350 6.7L Super duty diesel 1 ton truck crew cab srw. It has a standard bed, 3.55 axel ratio, 15,700 max towing, hitch weight of 2640. We have a 2016 Grand design solitude with a dry weight of 13,200 and a gross weight of 16,000. We are super confused about all the calculations and want to make sure we can tow our 5th wheel safely. Would this truck be sufficient?

asked by: Taunya B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The dry weight of your 2016 Grand Design Solitude is the weight calculated from the factory without any additional weight added to the trailer. The gross trailer weight (GTW) rating of your 2016 Grand Design Solitude is the most that it can weigh when completely loaded. Depending on the amount of cargo you're carrying on the trailer the actual weight of the trailer will fall in between 13,200 and 16,000 lbs.

As long as your trailer is not loaded to the brim with cargo and accessories and weighs under 15,700 lbs. then yes, you can safely tow this trailer with a 2012 Ford F-350. If you exceed the 15,700 max gross trailer weight (GTW) rating of the Ford F-350 you will want to consider upsizing the truck to a 450 model such as a Ford F-450.

Depending on which route you choose, I recommend beefing up the suspension of your 2012 Ford F-350 by adding a set of airbags like the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs part # F2597 as this will maximize but not increase the safe load-carrying capacity, increase stability and improve ride quality. I have attached an installion and review video of this kit for you.

expert reply by: Conner L