The Ford F-350 Super Duty IV Crew Cab Short Box with the 6.2-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-standing tradition of heavy-duty pickup trucks. Produced from 2017 to 2019, this variant occupied a key position in the fourth generation (F-250/F-350) of the Super Duty line, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. It was designed to appeal to buyers needing substantial towing and payload capacity, but who didn’t necessarily require the diesel engine options available in higher trims. This configuration was particularly popular in the United States and Canada, where the demand for robust work trucks remains consistently high.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-350 Super Duty |
| Generation | F-350 Super Duty IV Crew Cab Short box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 V8 (385 Hp) Automatic SRW |
| Start of production | 2017 year |
| End of production | 2019 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 385 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62 Hp/l |
| Torque | 583 Nm @ 3800 rpm, 430 lb.-ft. @ 3800 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 2848-2874 kg, 6278.77 – 6336.09 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1852 l, 65.4 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 182 l, 48.08 US gal | 40.03 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5761 kg, 12700.83 lbs. |
| Length | 6350 mm, 250 in. |
| Width | 2032 mm, 80 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2690 mm, 105.91 in. |
| Height | 1986 mm, 78.19 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4059 mm, 159.8 in. |
| Front track | 1735 mm, 68.31 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1707 mm, 67.2 in. |
| Front overhang | 970 mm, 38.19 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1321 mm, 52.01 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm, 8.5 in. |
| Approach angle | 17.6° |
| Departure angle | 17.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.8° |
| 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, 363 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 363 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this F-350 Super Duty variant lies Ford’s 6.2-liter “Boss” V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant, designated as the engine code 385, is a robust and relatively simple design. It features a cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder, and multi-port fuel injection. The 6.2L engine produces 385 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 430 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm. This engine is known for its smooth operation and relatively good reliability. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration are standard for this class of truck. The engine is mated to Ford’s six-speed TorqShift automatic transmission, a heavy-duty unit designed to handle the substantial torque output of the V8. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, optimized for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.2L V8 and automatic transmission combination delivers a competent, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for daily driving and light-duty work, but it won’t match the performance of the available diesel engines. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the wide gear ratios provide sufficient power for towing and hauling. However, the transmission can sometimes hunt for the right gear when climbing hills or under heavy load. Compared to the manual transmission option, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The 6.2L engine’s power delivery is linear, making it easy to modulate throttle input. The overall driving experience is characterized by a comfortable ride, thanks to the Super Duty’s robust suspension system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-350 Super Duty IV Crew Cab Short Box 6.2L Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The Crew Cab configuration provides ample space for six passengers. Higher trim levels, such as the XLT and Lariat, added features like upgraded audio systems, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included a trailer brake controller, a navigation system, and various appearance packages. The short bed configuration offered a good balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability.
Chassis & Braking
The F-350 Super Duty features a heavy-duty chassis designed to withstand the stresses of demanding work. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring setup with a trailing arm design, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring configuration. This combination provides a comfortable ride and excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering system is a hydraulic power-assisted recirculating ball setup, offering good feedback and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.2L V8-equipped F-350 Super Duty was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its reliability, smooth operation, and adequate power for most tasks. However, it was often criticized for its lower fuel economy compared to the diesel options. Compared to the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine, the 6.2L V8 offered significantly less torque and towing capacity. However, the 6.2L engine was also less expensive to purchase and maintain. The 6.2L engine was a popular choice for buyers who prioritized affordability and simplicity over maximum capability.
Legacy
The 6.2L V8 engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While not as powerful as the diesel options, it has earned a reputation for longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, F-350 Super Duty models equipped with the 6.2L V8 are often sought after by buyers looking for a capable and affordable work truck. The TorqShift automatic transmission has also proven to be a robust and dependable unit. Overall, the F-350 Super Duty IV Crew Cab Short Box 6.2L Automatic represents a solid and dependable choice for those needing a heavy-duty pickup truck.
