The Ford F-350 Super Duty III, specifically the Super Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.2-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-standing line of heavy-duty pickup trucks. Produced from 2011 to 2016, this variant occupied a crucial middle ground within the F-350 lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and cost. It was positioned as a step up from the base engine options, appealing to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the expense of the diesel-powered models. This generation (F-350 Super Duty III) marked a substantial refinement over its predecessors, focusing on improved interior appointments, enhanced chassis rigidity, and increased payload/towing ratings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-350 Super Duty |
| Generation | F-350 Super Duty III Super Cab Long box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 V8 (385 Hp) Automatic DRW |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 385 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62 Hp/l |
| Torque | 549 Nm @ 4500 rpm / 404.92 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 6211 cm3 / 379.02 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 102.1 mm / 4.02 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm / 3.74 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l / 6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt |
| Coolant | 20.2 l / 21.35 US qt | 17.77 UK qt |
| 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%) | 5670 kg / 12500.21 lbs. |
| Length | 6314 mm / 248.58 in. |
| Width | 2438 mm / 95.98 in. |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2664 mm / 104.88 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2794 mm / 110 in. |
| Height | 1953 mm / 76.89 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) | 216 mm / 8.5 in. |
| Approach angle | 19° |
| Departure angle | 16.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 15.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission TorqShift |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 346.96 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 340.11 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-350 variant is Ford’s 6.2-liter “Boss” V8 engine. This engine, internally designated as the 385, is a naturally aspirated, three-valve-per-cylinder powerplant. It utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, a configuration chosen for its durability and weight savings. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. This engine produces 385 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 405 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized low-end torque for hauling and towing, making it well-suited for the demands of heavy-duty truck applications. The engine is paired with Ford’s six-speed TorqShift automatic transmission, known for its robust construction and smooth shifting characteristics. This transmission was specifically designed to handle the high torque output of the 6.2L V8 and provide confident control when towing heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.2L V8 and TorqShift automatic combination delivers a driving experience that prioritizes usability and capability over outright speed. While not as quick as the diesel-powered F-350s, the 6.2L provides ample power for everyday driving and most towing scenarios. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth gear changes and a responsive feel. The gear ratios are optimized for towing, providing strong acceleration from a standstill even with a substantial load attached. However, passing maneuvers at highway speeds can require a bit more planning. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. It also provides a more refined driving experience, reducing driver fatigue on long hauls.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-350 Super Duty III with the 6.2L V8 was typically offered in XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels. The XL trim served as the work-focused base model, featuring vinyl upholstery, basic audio systems, and minimal creature comforts. The XLT trim added features like cloth upholstery, upgraded audio, and power windows/locks. The Lariat trim represented the premium offering, boasting leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, a more advanced audio system, and available features like heated and ventilated seats. Standard equipment across most trims included air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, and a basic information display. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rearview camera, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The F-350 Super Duty III features a fully boxed frame designed for exceptional strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring setup with a trailing arm design, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, enhancing stability and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when towing heavy loads. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard equipment. The Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) configuration, as specified in the original title, significantly increases stability and payload capacity compared to single rear wheel models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.2L V8-equipped F-350 Super Duty received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its strong towing capacity, comfortable ride, and user-friendly features. However, it was often noted that the fuel economy was significantly lower than that of the diesel-powered models. Compared to the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, the 6.2L offered less torque and lower towing capacity, but it was also considerably less expensive to purchase and maintain. The 6.2L also offered a simpler ownership experience, avoiding the potential complexities and higher repair costs associated with diesel engines and their emissions systems. Compared to the smaller engine options, the 6.2L provided a noticeable performance upgrade, making it a popular choice for buyers who needed a capable truck without the expense of a diesel.
Legacy
The 6.2L V8 in the F-350 Super Duty has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not immune to typical maintenance issues, the engine is generally known for its durability and longevity. Used examples are readily available on the market today, often at attractive price points. The TorqShift automatic transmission has also proven to be robust, with many units exceeding 150,000 miles without major issues. This combination continues to be a viable option for buyers seeking a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck, particularly those who prioritize simplicity and ease of maintenance over maximum towing capacity and fuel efficiency.
