If you’re in need of a powerful truck to handle your toughest towing jobs, the 2008 Ford F550 might just be the answer. The new F-Series Super Duty Chassis Cabs have been designed to handle aggressive payloads and towing demands with ease.
Equipped with the all-new 6.4L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel, these trucks are now even more capable than ever before. With the ability to tow up to 16,000 pounds with a conventional trailer and up to 24,500 pounds with a fifth-wheel trailer, the 2008 Ford F550 is a true workhorse.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the towing capacity of the 2008 Ford F550 and what makes it such a capable and reliable truck.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
2008 Ford F550 Engine Options
The 2008 F550 Super Duty Chassis Cab is powered by a 6.8L SEFI V10 Power Stroke Diesel Engine. Plus, the truck also comes with a 6.4L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel.
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity according to the engine type
Super Duty Chassis Cabs (Automatic Transmission)
| ENGINE TYPE | CONVENTIONAL TOWING | 5TH-WHEEL TOWING |
| 6.8L SEFI V10 | 16,000 lbs | 18,200 lbs |
| 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 16,000 lbs | 24,400 lbs |
Super Duty Chassis Cabs (Manual Transmission)
| ENGINE TYPE | CONVENTIONAL TOWING | 5TH-WHEEL TOWING |
| 6.8L SEFI V10 | 16,000 lbs | 18,200 lbs |
| 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 16,000 lbs | 19,400 lbs |
The robust 6.8L 3V SEFI V10 engine has proven its mettle with its impressive strength, delivering optimal towing capabilities. With a peak horsepower of 362 and a pinnacle torque of 457 lb.-ft, this powerhouse, when coupled with the F550, offers a maximum conventional towing capacity of 16,000 lbs and an impressive 5th-wheel towing capacity of 18,200 lbs.
On the other hand, the 6.4L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine showcases an exceptional performance that sets it apart from the rest in its class, producing a maximum power output of 350 horsepower and a staggering torque of 650 lb.-ft.Outfitted with this engine, the 2008 Ford F550 can haul up to 16,000 lbs for conventional towing and an astonishing 24,400 lbs for 5th-wheel towing, making it an unbeatable choice for heavy-duty hauling.
Now, it’s time to explore the 2008 Ford F550 Towing Charts.
The 2008 F550 is available on Super Duty Chassis Cabs (both Automatic and Manual Transmission). DRW Regular Cab Chassis, DRW Supercab Chassis, and DRW Crew Cab Chassis are the configurations for the F550.
CONVENTIONAL TOWING (AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION)
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Regular Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Supercab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Crew Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
5TH-WHEEL TOWING (AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION)
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Regular Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 18,200 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,900 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 18,200 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,900 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 17,400 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,400 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 24,400 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Supercab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,800 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,500 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,800 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,500 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,700 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,700 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 23,700 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Crew Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,700 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,300 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,700 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,300 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,900 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,500 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,900 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,500 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 23,900 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 33,000 lbs | 23,500 lbs |
CONVENTIONAL TOWING (MANUAL TRANSMISSION)
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Regular Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Supercab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Crew Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
5TH-WHEEL TOWING (MANUAL TRANSMISSION)
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Regular Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 18,200 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,900 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 18,200 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,900 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 17,400 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 19,400 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 19,000 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Supercab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,800 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,500 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,800 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,500 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,700 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 19,000 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 18,700 lbs |
2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity Chart–Crew Cab Chassis (DRW)
| CONFIGURATION | ENGINE | AXLE RATIO | GCWR | TOWING CAPACITY |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,700 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 17,300 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,700 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.8L SEFI V10 | 5.38 | 26,000 lbs | 17,300 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.30 | 26,000 lbs | 16,900 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 26,000 lbs | 16,500 lbs |
| 4×2 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 18,900 lbs |
| 4×4 DRW | 6.4L V8 Turbo Diesel | 4.88 | 28,000 lbs | 18,500 lbs |
2023 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2022 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2021 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2020 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2019 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2018 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2017 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2016 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2015 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2014 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2013 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2012 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2011 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2010 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
2009 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
Towing Features on 2008 Ford F550
Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (TBC) and Upfitter Switches
• Provides trailer braking proportioned to vehicle braking
• Uses braking input, vehicle speed, and ABS logic to balance the performance of the truck brakes and electric trailer brakes
• Redesigned user-friendly display indicates gain, TBC output, and trailer connection status, including disconnect alarm and message center warning
TorqShift® 5-speed Automatic Transmission with Tow/Haul Mode
• Improved for 2008 with a beefed-up torque converter and stronger gear sets
• Engineered to handle the highest torque loads and most-demanding work conditions
• Selectable Tow/Haul mode adjusts transmission operation to match towing and hauling demand, reduces gear hunting, improves the power delivery, and engages engine braking to help control speed when descending hills
New Class-Exclusive PowerScope™ Trailer Tow Mirrors
• Adjust, fold, and telescope almost 3 inches on each side of the truck at the touch of a switch for an expanded rearward field of vision around trailers
• Include heated glass, integrated turn signals, and clearance lamps
Some Safety Tips for Towing with the 2008 Ford F550
Towing can be a perilous undertaking if not executed correctly. Here are a few towing safety tips that you should bear in mind while towing with your 2008 Ford F550:
- It is of utmost importance to ensure that the trailer is securely fastened to your truck, with all safety chains and electrical connections firmly in place.
- Another critical aspect is to assess the weight distribution of the trailer, guaranteeing that it is evenly dispersed and properly balanced.
- To account for the extra weight and length of the trailer, it is judicious to adjust your driving behavior by making wider turns, allowing for additional space for braking, and abstaining from sudden movements.
- Prior to towing, it is imperative to scrutinize your brakes, tires, and lights to ensure that they are in optimal working condition.
- Overstepping your truck’s towing capacity or the hitch’s capacity is strictly prohibited, and thus, it is imperative to adhere to these limits.
Conclusion on 2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
The 2008 Ford F550 is a remarkable heavy-duty vehicle, possessing an exceptional capacity for hauling. With the appropriate equipment and scrupulous preparation, it has the potential to securely and efficiently pull mammoth loads.
Moreover, it is of paramount importance to uphold your automobile on a regular basis, to ensure that it is functioning optimally and has the capacity to endure the strain of hauling. Should you adhere to the guidelines expounded in this dissertation, you can safely and efficiently tow using your 2008 Ford F550.
By heeding the recommendations provided, you can guarantee that your tow is carried out with proficiency, and you are safeguarded along with your equipment.
How to calculate the load your vehicle can carry/tow?
1. Use the appropriate maximum GCWR chart (in the Trailer Towing section in this chapter) for your type of engine and rear axle ratio.
2. Weigh your vehicle without cargo. To obtain the correct weights, take your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks.
3. Subtract your loaded weight from the maximum GCWR in the chart. This is the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. It must be below the maximum trailer weight shown in the chart.
Some Important Information on 2008 Ford F550 Towing Capacity
- Maximum trailer weight for bumper towing is 5,000 lbs.
- Trailer tongue load weight should be 10-15% of the total loaded trailer weight.
- The combined weight of the vehicle and trailer cannot exceed the GCWR in the vehicle manual.
- F550 owners must read and review the owner’s manual before towing.
- The 2008 F550’s maximum towing capacity requires a powerful engine, Max Trailer Tow Package, specific tires, and wheels, and approved towing accessories.
- Towing capacity depends on the vehicle configuration, cargo, passenger weight, trailer tongue weight, towing accessories, and customizations.
- Your vehicle can tow class I, II, or III trailers if the maximum weight is within the limits listed for your engine and rear axle ratio on the provided charts.
- Load capacity is determined by weight, not volume, so not all available space may be used when loading.
- Towing puts extra load on the vehicle’s engine, transmission, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension, so these components should be inspected regularly during and after towing.
Stellan Carter is an accomplished writer, entrepreneur, and avid Ford Raptor owner. As a co-founder and content contributor for this renowned blog website, Stellan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the automotive industry. When he's not behind the wheel of his beloved Ford Raptor, Stellan can be found exploring new terrains, capturing the essence of his automotive adventures through his camera lens.