The Ford F-350 Super Duty, specifically the third generation produced from 2011 to 2016, represented a significant evolution in Ford’s heavy-duty truck lineup. This iteration, often referred to as the F-350 Super Duty III, offered a blend of increased capability, refined comfort, and advanced technology. The variant equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbodiesel engine producing 400 horsepower and paired with a six-speed TorqShift automatic transmission, and a four-wheel drive (4×4) system, was a popular configuration aimed at buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity. This model occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a balance between the base engine’s affordability and the higher-output engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-350 Super Duty |
| Generation | F-350 Super Duty III Super Cab Long box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.7 V8 Power Stroke TD (400 Hp) 4×4 Automatic SRW |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 119.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 323.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 2800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1085 Nm @ 1600 rpm (800.25 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 6653 cm3 (405.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.06 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 107.95 mm (4.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 12.4 l (13.1 US qt | 10.91 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 27.8 l (29.38 US qt | 24.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 3356 kg (7398.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 5080 kg (11199.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1724 kg (3800.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2189 l (77.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 142 l (37.51 US gal | 31.24 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6350 kg (13999.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 6314 mm (248.58 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2664 mm (104.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2794 mm (110 in.) |
| Height | 2037 mm (80.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 4013 mm (157.99 in.) |
| Front overhang | 968 mm (38.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1331 mm (52.4 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 208 mm (8.19 in.) |
| Approach angle | 19.3° |
| Departure angle | 21.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission TorqShift |
| Front suspension | Dependent spring suspension with anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 346.96 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 340.11 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Hydraulic Power Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17; 275/65 R18; 275/70 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-350 variant is the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel engine. This engine, designated with various codes depending on the specific year and emissions configuration, represented a significant leap forward for Ford’s diesel offerings. It featured a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a sophisticated turbocharging system with an intercooler. The engine utilized a high-pressure common rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while traditional, was robust and reliable. The six-speed TorqShift automatic transmission was specifically designed to handle the high torque output of the Power Stroke engine. It featured a wide gear ratio spread, allowing for both strong acceleration and efficient highway cruising. The transmission also incorporated a tow/haul mode, which adjusted shift points to optimize performance when towing heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 400 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque delivered by this powertrain configuration provided substantial performance. While not as quick as lighter-duty trucks, the F-350 with this engine could accelerate briskly when unladen. The real strength, however, lay in its towing and hauling capabilities. The wide gear ratios of the TorqShift transmission allowed for confident and controlled towing, even with substantial loads. Compared to the gasoline engine options, the diesel offered significantly more low-end torque, making it ideal for demanding tasks. Compared to the higher-output versions of the 6.7L Power Stroke (450hp), this variant traded some peak power for improved fuel economy and potentially greater long-term reliability. The automatic transmission, while convenient, didn’t offer the same level of control as a manual transmission, but it was well-suited for everyday driving and towing scenarios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-350 Super Duty III was available in various trim levels, including XL, XLT, and Lariat. The 6.7L Power Stroke/automatic combination was available across most trims. The base XL trim offered a functional and durable interior with vinyl upholstery and basic features. The XLT trim added more comfort and convenience features, such as cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. The Lariat trim represented the premium offering, with leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced technology features. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The F-350 Super Duty III featured a robust chassis designed to withstand heavy loads. The front suspension utilized a two-stage leaf spring design with anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a leaf spring setup. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. Hydraulic power steering provided responsive and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.7L Power Stroke-equipped F-350 Super Duty was well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its strong towing and hauling capabilities, comfortable ride, and refined interior. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was competitive for a heavy-duty truck. Compared to the gasoline engine options, the diesel offered superior torque and fuel efficiency when towing. Compared to the higher-output diesel variants, this 400hp version offered a more balanced combination of performance, fuel economy, and reliability. Some critics noted that the automatic transmission could occasionally be hesitant when downshifting, but overall, the powertrain was considered a strong performer.
Legacy
The 6.7-liter Power Stroke engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While early versions of the engine experienced some issues with the fuel injection system, these were largely addressed through updates and revisions. Today, well-maintained F-350 Super Duty trucks from this generation remain popular in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a capable and reliable work truck. The combination of the 6.7L Power Stroke engine and the TorqShift automatic transmission continues to be a sought-after configuration, offering a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and durability.
