The Ford F-350 Super Duty III, specifically the Super Cab Short Box configuration powered by the 6.7-liter V8 Power Stroke Turbo Diesel engine paired with an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-standing tradition of heavy-duty pickup trucks. Produced from 2011 to 2016, this variant occupied a crucial position in the F-350 lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and technology aimed at both commercial users and individual truck enthusiasts. It was part of the third generation of the Super Duty series (F-250, F-350, F-450), known for its substantial upgrades in towing capacity, interior refinement, and powertrain options compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-350 Super Duty |
| Generation | F-350 Super Duty III Super Cab Short box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.7 V8 Power Stroke TD (400 Hp) 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 | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 347.1 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 | 3126 kg (6891.65 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 4990 kg (11001.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1864 kg (4109.42 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1815 l (64.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6350 kg (13999.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 5903 mm (232.4 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2664 mm (104.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2794 mm (110 in.) |
| Height | 1953 mm (76.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3602 mm (141.81 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 | 18.2° |
| Departure angle | 17° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 16.7° |
| 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, 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 | 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 specific calibration and emissions controls, is a turbocharged, common-rail direct injection engine. The 6.7L Power Stroke utilized a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. The common-rail fuel injection system, supplied by Bosch, delivered highly pressurized fuel directly into the cylinders, optimizing combustion efficiency and power output. The engine featured an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice favored for its robustness and relatively simple maintenance. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler further enhanced performance by providing increased air intake and reducing intake air temperature. The engine was mated to Ford’s TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission, a heavy-duty unit designed to handle the substantial torque output of the diesel engine. This transmission featured a tow/haul mode, optimizing shift points for towing and hauling heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 with the automatic transmission delivered a robust driving experience. While not as immediately responsive as some gasoline-powered trucks or those equipped with manual transmissions, the diesel engine provided immense low-end torque, making it exceptionally capable for towing and hauling. The automatic transmission, while smooth, was tuned for durability and efficiency rather than outright performance. The gear ratios were optimized to keep the engine within its peak torque band during typical towing and hauling scenarios. Compared to the gasoline-powered F-350 variants, the diesel offered significantly more torque, but at the expense of some initial acceleration. Compared to higher-output versions of the 6.7L Power Stroke, this 400 horsepower variant provided a more manageable power delivery, making it suitable for drivers who didn’t require the absolute maximum towing capacity.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-350 Super Duty III in this configuration was typically available in XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels. The XL trim served as the work-focused base model, offering essential features like air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The XLT trim added features such as power windows and locks, keyless entry, and upgraded interior materials. The Lariat trim represented the premium offering, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and additional chrome exterior trim. Standard features across most trims included a trailer brake controller, a limited-slip differential, and a heavy-duty suspension. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rearview camera, 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 an independent coil spring setup with a trailing arm design, providing a comfortable ride while maintaining stability. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when heavily loaded. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Steering was hydraulic, offering a firm and responsive feel. The Super Duty’s frame was fully boxed, contributing to its exceptional strength and rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2011-2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty with the 6.7L Power Stroke and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its impressive towing capacity, comfortable ride, and refined interior. Fuel economy, while typical for a heavy-duty diesel truck, was a point of consideration. Compared to the gasoline-powered F-350 variants, the diesel offered superior torque and towing capability, but at a higher initial cost. Compared to the higher-output versions of the 6.7L Power Stroke, this 400 horsepower variant offered a more balanced combination of power and fuel efficiency. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system.
Legacy
The 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The 2011-2016 F-350 Super Duty models with this engine continue to hold their value in the used car market, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The TorqShift automatic transmission has also proven to be a robust and dependable unit. While the DPF system can require periodic maintenance, the overall long-term reliability of this powertrain combination is generally considered to be good. These trucks remain popular choices for those seeking a capable and dependable heavy-duty pickup.
