Ford is updating its 2015 F-Series Super Duty trucks lineup with engine and chassis upgrades, said to deliver best-in-class horsepower, torque and towing capacity. All Super Duty models, from the F-250 to F-450, get the second-generation 6.7-liter Power Strike V8 turbodiesel unit that produces 440 hp (up from 400 hp) and 860 lb-ft (1,165Nm) of torque (up from 800 lb-ft/1,083 Nm).
In addition to the updated engine that also equips the larger F-650 and F-750 trucks, the F-450 receives chassis upgrades that raise maximum gooseneck trailer towing capacity to 31,200 pounds (14,152 kg), fifth wheel towing capacity to 26,500 pounds (12,020 kg), and gross combined weight rating to 40,000 pounds (18,144 kg).
Furthermore, the F-350 will be available with maximum towing package that increases fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailer towing capacity to 26,500 pounds (12,020 kg), and raises the gross combined weight rating to 35,000 pounds (15,875 kg).
Ford says the improved ratings are a result of designing and engineering the truck as an integrated system, as this approach enabled engineers to optimize performance across the full Super Duty lineup.
“Our chassis people work in unison with our powertrain people to develop more than a great truck, it’s a machine engineered for work,” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck group marketing manager.
Improvements to the F-450 that allow it to handle the increased tow rating include commercial-grade 19.5-inch wheels and tires, upgraded rear U-joints and suspension components (including new rear leaf springs), front and rear stabilizer bars, and shocks.
Furthermore, the steering system has stronger gears and linkages and the fifth-wheel/gooseneck has an increased towing capacity. Finally, the brakes are larger and feature new antilock calibration for enhanced performance.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
