In the market for a medium-duty work machine? Perhaps consider the Ford F-550. It’s capable and customizable—two elements that when combined make a mean work truck. With the F-550, owners can choose between two engines, a number of options for personalization, and several different packages to meet all their work truck needs. Capability and customization aside, the truck also offers comfort and safety elements that are more commonly found in light-duty trucks. But don’t let that fool you, this chassis cab lives up to its Super Duty name.
SUPER DUTY
One of the most important elements to a truck is its capability. The Ford F-550 features a standard 7.3-L V8 gas engine available with the brand’s TorqShift heavy-duty 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners have the option to add live drive power takeoff with the 7.3-L. Diesel lovers can opt for Ford’s 6.7-L Power Stroke diesel V8, also available with a TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission. Live drive power takeoff is standard with the diesel engine. New for 2020 is selectable drive modes with the transmission. Depending on the need, drivers can select Normal, Tow/Haul, Eco, and Deep Sand/Snow drive modes.
Also new for 2020 is a redesign of the Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel with inverse-flow configuration to surpass previous power ratings. This third generation Power Stroke has injectors that can measure and spray fuel up to eight times per stroke. This optimizes combustion. To withstand this increase in power, the engine features a stronger block, cylinder heads, connector rods and bearings, as well as new steel pistons.
The 7.3-L V8 engine offers 350 hp at 3,900 rpm and 468 lb-ft of torque at 3,900 rpm. The Power Stroke Turbo Diesel offers 330 hp at 2,600 rpm and 825 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. The chassis cab features a maximum payload of 12,750 lbs, a maximum GVWR of 19,500 lbs, and a maximum GCWR of 40,000 lbs.
Although an important aspect to consider when buying a work truck, capability isn’t the only thing to consider. Comfort and convenience also play a role in the final decision-making process.
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
Keeping good drivers has become more difficult these days, and one of the ways to combat driver shortage is through investing in trucks that drivers enjoy operating. Even small details can take a driver from liking a truck to loving a truck.
In-cab details in the F-550 feature a dash-top tray and a black vinyl floor covering, sturdy enough for work boot traffic. Grab handles on the driver’s side and front passenger’s side—and over the rear doors in the Crew Cab—keep all occupants comfortable and steady in the truck no matter where the road takes them. And while your crew cruises down the city streets or takes the road less traveled, they have the standard options of listening to the AM/FM Stereo, Ford Pass Connect, and Ford SYNC. SiriusXM Radio is also available as an option. Speaking of the crew, they’ll remain cool in the summer and warm in the winter with the 2020 Ford F-550’s standard air conditioning with manual temperature control and an option for rapid-heat supplemental cab heater with a diesel engine.
The driver will experience added convenience with audio controls on the steering wheel and an instrument cluster with a 2.3-inch productivity screen that displays the odometer, average fuel economy, engine hour meter, distance-to-empty, and warning messages. There is also additional storage with two glove boxes and preinstalled upfitter switches. These upfitter switches—integrated into an overhead storage compartment—include two 40-amp switches (ignition on or off) and four 25-amp switches (ignition on).
If you find yourself in need of a few extra features to maximize productivity, there are multiple options to choose from. Optional features include cruise control, power door locks and windows, remote start system, rear view camera and prep kit, dash-mounted power outlet, outlet in rear side of console, exterior backup alarm, Upfitter Interface Module, and 65 mph and 75 mph speed limitations to keep your drivers safe.
PRIORITIZE SAFETY
Some safety features are standard with the Ford F-550. Take for instance the fact that the cab is equipped with Ford’s Safety Canopy System with roll-fold side-curtain airbags and front seat and passenger frontal airbags. The cab also features a Belt-Minder that chimes and flashes a warning light when seat belts aren’t worn. An additional standard safety feature is auto on/off headlamps with Rainlamp Wiper Activated Headlamps. This ensures headlamps are activated in the rain or while wipers are in use.
Optional safety features include automatic high beams, lane change departure warning, and a pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking. Optional on Lariat models is a heated windshield wiper function—perfect for trucks that run in snow and cold weather.
For those who haul and tow, Ford’s Super Duty trucks come standard with AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC) and trailer sway control. These systems use sensors to detect a loss of control then reduce engine power and apply selective wheel braking to help maintain control of the vehicle and the trailer in tow. Safety should always be first, and your drivers’ safety should be customized according the job.
CUSTOMIZATION
Sure, it takes a certain amount of customization after you’ve received your truck for it to become your perfect fleet vehicle. But it helps to have a few things already in place. Ford’s chassis cab packages help.
The brand offers a Power Equipment Group with power locks, windows, and side mirrors. There is the Heavy Service Front Suspension package, the Extra Heavy Service Suspension package, and the Extra Heavy Duty Front End Suspension package offering a GAWR of 7,500. With these options, you can truly choose what you need.
And depending on those needs, you have the option to choose a Trailer Tow package or a High-capacity Trailer Tow package. There are also payload packages available. Choose from Payload Upgrade package, the Payload Plus Upgrade package, and even a Payload Downgrade package. Finally, for those interested in alternative fuels, Ford offers a CNG/Propane Gaseous Engine Prep package. There’s no denying that the perfect fleet truck requires a bit of customization, but perhaps with these packages, Ford can make that customization a little easier.
YOUR NEXT TRUCK
Designed for hard work, the options for this super duty are almost endless. It’s Super Duty power and capability combined with your specific upgrades and packages can create a truck built specifically for your hard work. And with its comfortable details and convenient touches, your drivers will feel it was built specifically for them.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Find out more about the Ford F-550, visit www.ford.com.
