I am going to buy either a F250 or F350 4x4 around x-mas I want to run some 35 inch tires on it and it will probably eventually pull a 5th wheel trailer. my question is, do they both have the same front and rear axles, (F250 vs F350) or does the F350 have stronger ones? Also what kind of suspension mods does it take to run on either on to get 35's on it? I want as little lift as posible so the wife can still get in the truck thanks for any info!

 

The difference between the F-250 and the F-350 is in the axles. The F-250 has a 3800# axle assembly and the 350, I believe has a 4500#. As you can see, both axles are strong, but the 350's has a much higher rating. (thus the 15,000# towing capacity). I would say that the 250 would get the job done unless you absolutely need that really big towing capacity.

As far as suspension components go, both will cost you around the same since both share many components. Lift kits are made that are compatible with both, in size and weight rating.

What size trailer will you be pulling? If you can handle it with a 250 (which you should be able to), then you should like the price of the 250 over a similar 350. Although it may not be too much, it's still a difference in price. You could spend that extra $200 on a superchip or something

Hope this helps ya
-Flea

 

Here's the problem I see with this. Many lift kits de-rate your springs and hence you will not be able to haul or tow as much, unless you get helper springs, but then your ride is shot to hell. S Duties can probably fit 35" stock with a a few modifications. First, get rid of your front bumper, that will be the first restriction, get a ranchhand replacement. Or, if you can afford it, offroad tech is selling their prerunner style front bumper for $1200, but that's almost 4 times as much as a ranchhand. That should definatly clear the way for 35's in the front. looking to the back, you can get a 2" lift block, that should be enough. I don't think you even need it though, there should be enough clearance.

This way, you retain your tow rating and your wife will still be able to climb in. Hope this helps!

 

thanks for the replies guys! that definately helps!
Does ford make the axles or are they like the old trucks with dana 60's or dana 44's? thanks for any info you can give!

 

I'm pretty sure the front is a dana 50 or dana 60. The rear varies. It can get up to a dana 135!

 

I know the front on the new 250 SD are 50s and the 450 and 550 have 135 rears. But I think on the 250 and 350 they have Sterling rear axles.