Ford Super Duty is offered in more configurations than we can count. Ford offers some 30 variations on the F-250 (the so-called 3/4-ton pickups) and nearly 60 iterations of the F-350 (or 1-ton size). All can pull heavy loads and are more truck than most consumers will ever need. Base prices range from $22,390 for a plain XL regular cab up to $41,830 for a long-wheelbase, four-wheel-drive King Ranch Crew Cab with dual rear wheels.
The F-250 and F-350 Super Duty models are available in regular-cab, extended-cab (SuperCab), and Crew Cab configurations. Crew Cab versions come with four full-sized doors, and are the most passenger-friendly models. Both two- and four-wheel drive are available. Four-wheel-drive models offer either manual-locking or optional electronic, shift-on-the-fly auto-locking hubs ($185).
Short-bed (6-3/4 foot) and long-bed (8-foot) versions are available. Wheelbase lengths vary by body style: 137 inches for a regular cab, 142 inches for a SuperCab short-bed, 158 inches for a SuperCab long-bed, 156 inches for a Crew Cab short-bed, and 172 inches for Crew Cab long-bed.
All F-250 models come with single rear wheels. F-350 models are available with single rear wheels (SRW) or dual rear wheels (DRW). The latter, often called "dualies," are great for towing as they offer higher tongue-weight ratings, although they do give up an almost meaningless 300 pounds to the SRW models in fifth wheel/goose neck maximum towing capacity.
The base engine across the line is the new, 24-valve, 5.4-liter V8. The 6.8-liter V10 is optional on all models ($600), as is the 6.0-liter diesel V8 ($5,100). The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual, with a 5-speed automatic optional ($1490).
Four trim levels are offered: standard XL, mid-level XLT, luxurious Lariat, and ultimate King Ranch. XL models are pretty basic, with only a two-speaker, AM/FM stereo and fixed-interval wipers. Air conditioning ($850) is optional, as are a CD stereo ($275) and seat upgrades, including a vinyl split bench ($400) and cloth buckets ($390). XLT models are equipped more like the average passenger car, with air conditioning and more stereo choices. Lariats come with automatic air conditioning, an overhead console, leather seats with six-way power, and aluminum wheels. King Ranch models, available only with the Crew Cab, come with four leather captain's chairs, extensive leather appointments, and unique paint and trim.
Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on all Super Duty models, a nice upgrade over older heavy-duty pickups with rear drum brakes.
Stand-alone options include a reverse proximity sensor ($245) for XL, XLT, Lariat, and King Ranch (a great feature on these big trucks); and a power driver's seat for XLT ($290). Power telescoping trailer mirrors are available on XLT ($220) and standard on Lariat and King Ranch; they feature heated glass and integral turn signal repeaters. Manually telescoping mirrors are available ($125) on XL. A power sliding rear cab window is available on the Lariat ($185). A Sport Package ($1,085) for XLT SuperCabs and Crew Cabs adds chromed tubular step bars; body-color grille, bumpers, and door handles; sliding rear cab window; fog lamps; privacy glass; an exclusive two-tone cloth 40/20/40 split-bench front seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Other options include a moonroof ($995), adjustable pedals ($120), cruise control/tilt steering column ($385), roof marker lights ($55), and running boards.
The TowCommand package on the XL ($330) includes the manually telescoping mirrors. On the XLT and Lariat, TowCommand adds the integrated trailer brake controller and heat to the telescoping mirrors ($425). The integrated trailer brake controller is also available as a stand-alone across the line ($205), as are upfitter switches ($60). Also, TowCommand requires the automatic transmission.
The FX4 Off-Road Package ($225) adds skid plates and Rancho shock absorbers; the steering damper formerly offered only as part of the FX4 package is now standard on all '05 Super Duty vehicles. Skid plates ($100) are also available as a stand-alone option.
The Camper Package ($160) adds a rear stabilizer bar, slide-in camper certification and heavy service, auxiliary springs.
The Harley-Davidson Edition returns for 2005, but now on the F-250 and F-350 4WD Crew Cab only. They come with all the King Ranch goodies plus 20-inch, bright-polished aluminum wheels and unique Harley-Davidson design cues inside and out. A limited-edition, bright yellow Amarillo trim package will arrive during the model year.