The 2019 Ford F-250 is a powerhouse in the world of heavy-duty trucks. Built to handle large loads, challenging terrains, and the toughest of jobs, the F-250 is favoured for its towing capacity, advanced engineering, and smart features that make towing more accessible, safer, and more efficient. Whether you’re hauling a horse trailer, a camper, or heavy equipment, the F-250 delivers.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the towing capabilities of the 2019 Ford F-250, from engine choices and configurations to towing technologies and best practices.
Table of Contents
The 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty: Overview and Key Features
As part of Ford’s Super Duty lineup, the 2019 F-250 is positioned as a heavy-duty workhorse with the flexibility to serve personal and commercial needs. Built on a high-strength steel frame and fitted with a lightweight aluminium alloy body, the F-250 balances strength and weight reduction, which boosts both towing capacity and fuel efficiency. Ford’s Super Duty series includes the F-250, F-350, and F-450, with the F-250 hitting the sweet spot for those who need more power than a standard pickup without moving to the ultra-heavy-duty end of the spectrum.
Available trims for the 2019 F-250 include:
- XL: Essential for rugged work, with basic features for durability and utility.
- XLT: Adds comfort features and technology for a more refined driving experience.
- Lariat: Higher-end interior options with more advanced technology.
- King Ranch: Premium Western-inspired styling with upscale finishes.
- Platinum: Luxurious interior materials and advanced safety features.
- Limited: The pinnacle trim features exclusive materials and top-tier technology.
Each trim level allows buyers to tailor the F-250 to their needs, but every model prioritises towing performance and strength.
Engine Options and Their Impact on Towing Capacity
The 2019 Ford F-250 offers two engine options, each providing a unique balance of power, torque, and towing capacity to suit different hauling needs.
a) 6.2L V8 Petrol Engine
The 6.2-litre V8 petrol engine is the standard engine for the 2019 F-250, designed to offer a reliable balance between power and fuel efficiency. Ideal for most light-to-moderate towing jobs, this engine delivers:
- Horsepower: 385 hp at 5,750 rpm
- Torque: 430 lb-ft at 3,800 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic
- Towing Capacity:
- Conventional towing: Up to 15,000 lbs (approx. 6,804 kg)
- Fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing: Up to 15,800 lbs (approx. 7,167 kg)
This V8 engine provides robust low-end torque, essential for moving heavy loads from a standstill, making it an ideal choice for moderate towing needs, such as boat trailers, small equipment trailers, and light-to-moderate RVs.
b) 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel Engine
The 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel is the F-250’s most powerful engine option, specifically engineered to handle heavy-duty towing tasks easily. This diesel engine is renowned for its durability and torque output, essential for towing larger, heavier loads. Its specifications include:
- Horsepower: 450 hp at 2,800 rpm
- Torque: 935 lb-ft at 1,800 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic with SelectShift
- Towing Capacity:
- Conventional towing: Up to 18,000 lbs (approx. 8,165 kg)
- Fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing: Up to 18,500 lbs (approx. 8,391 kg)
With its torque rating of 935 lb-ft, the diesel engine allows the F-250 to handle even the most challenging towing jobs. This engine is particularly suitable for commercial or industrial use, where the truck may be expected to tow construction equipment, large livestock trailers, or fully loaded fifth-wheel trailers.
Cab and Bed Configurations and Their Influence on Towing
The 2019 Ford F-250 is available in multiple cab and bed configurations, which impact its towing capacity. The three cab options include:
- Regular Cab: The smallest and lightest option, focused on maximising towing and payload.
- SuperCab: A mid-size cab that offers additional passenger space while maintaining good towing capability.
- Crew Cab: This is the largest cab option, ideal for those who need extra passenger space. Due to the additional weight, it has a slightly lower towing capacity.
These configurations allow owners to tailor the F-250 to their specific needs. For instance, the Regular Cab with the 6.7L diesel engine provides the highest towing capacity because it is the lightest option.
Towing Capacity Based on Drivetrain and Hitch Type
The F-250’s towing capacity also varies based on whether the truck has two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Due to reduced vehicle weight, two-wheel drive configurations typically offer a slightly higher towing capacity.
Conventional Towing
Conventional towing refers to using a standard rear hitch receiver. Here’s a breakdown of maximum conventional towing capacities for the 2019 F-250:
- 6.2L V8 Petrol: Up to 15,000 lbs (6,804 kg)
- 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel: Up to 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg)
Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Towing
Fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitches provide a significant advantage for towing hefty loads. These hitches distribute the trailer’s weight more evenly over the truck’s rear axle, allowing the F-250 to tow heavier loads with improved stability.
- 6.2L V8 Petrol: Up to 15,800 lbs (7,167 kg)
- 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel: Up to 18,500 lbs (8,391 kg)
Key Towing Features of the 2019 Ford F-250
The 2019 F-250 includes a range of towing-focused technologies and features designed to simplify the towing process and enhance safety.
a) Tow/Haul Mode
This mode optimises the truck’s shift patterns to improve control and reduce gear hunting when towing on steep grades. Tow/Haul Mode also helps manage speed on downhill slopes, reducing brake wear.
b) Trailer Sway Control
Trailer Sway Control is a crucial feature that automatically applies the brakes and reduces engine power if it detects that the trailer is swaying, ensuring the vehicle remains stable even in windy conditions.
c) Integrated Trailer Brake Controller
This feature allows drivers to control trailer braking independently of the truck’s brakes, giving smoother braking performance, which is particularly useful for heavy loads.
d) Pro Trailer Backup Assist
The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system allows drivers to turn a knob in the desired direction while the truck automatically handles steering, making it easier to back up trailers.
e) Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Trailer Coverage
Ford’s BLIS system with Trailer Coverage extends blind-spot monitoring to the length of the trailer, alerting the driver if vehicles are in blind spots, thereby enhancing lane-change safety.
f) Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control
Hill Start Assist prevents rollback on steep inclines, while Hill Descent Control ensures smooth and controlled descents, allowing the driver to focus on steering rather than braking.
Payload Capacity and Its Importance
Payload capacity, or the weight the F-250 can carry in the cab and bed, is another key metric for heavy-duty trucks. The 2019 F-250 offers the following payload capacities:
- 6.2L V8 Petrol: Maximum payload up to 4,250 lbs (1,928 kg)
- 6.7L V8 Diesel: Maximum payload up to 3,880 lbs (1,760 kg)
While the diesel engine has a slightly lower payload due to its additional weight, it compensates with superior torque, ideal for heavy towing.
Tips for Maximising Your F-250’s Towing Potential
To make the most of the 2019 F-250’s towing capacity, consider these tips:
a) Choose the Right Hitch
Selecting the correct hitch is essential for towing safely. For maximum towing, opt for a fifth-wheel or gooseneck setup, which distributes weight more evenly.
b) Regular Maintenance
Towing places extra strain on a vehicle, so regular maintenance—especially for the transmission, brakes, and suspension—will ensure optimal performance and safety.
c) Monitor Tyre Pressure
Properly inflated tyres are crucial for safe towing, as underinflated tyres can affect stability and fuel efficiency.
d) Use the Tow/Haul Mode
Using Tow/Haul Mode improves the transmission’s ability to manage heavy loads, especially in hilly or mountainous terrain.
e) Be Mindful of Trailer Weight
Overloading a trailer can put undue stress on the truck and is a leading cause of accidents. Always ensure your trailer’s weight does not exceed the recommended towing capacity.
How the 2019 F-250 Compares to Rivals
In the heavy-duty pickup segment, the 2019 Ford F-250 stands out for its power, comfort, and technology blend. Compared to the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and Ram 2500, the F-250’s diesel option delivers best-in-class torque, making it particularly attractive to those prioritising towing power.
Conclusion
The 2019 Ford F-250 is an exceptional choice for heavy-duty towing, with its durable build, powerful engine options, and advanced towing technology. Whether for work or recreation, the F-250 can handle a wide range of towing tasks, from small trailers to fully loaded fifth-wheel campers. By understanding the vehicle’s capabilities and utilising its towing features, you can ensure a safer, smoother towing experience every time.