Can a Ford F350 Tow a Backhoe?


Can a Ford F350 Tow a Backhoe

Depending on the specific model and year, some Ford F350s can tow a backhoe, but again, it will also depend on the weight of the backhoe.

For example, the latest Ford F350 models top spec models can tow up to 21,000 pounds. You can also configure the F350 for 5th-wheel / Gooseneck towing which can take the towing capacity up to 32,000 pounds.

Given that the average backhoe weighs around 15,000 pounds, you might expect your Ford F350 to be able to tow on. The F350 Super Duty should be able to tow heavier backhoes either. 

Less powerful models of the F350 could handle up to 20,000 pounds, so make sure your backhoe is less than that before setting out on the road with it.

In this video below you can see a Ford F350 towing a backhoe successfully.

How much can a 2022 Ford F350 tow (selected examples)

Before you even to tow a backhoe with your Ford F350, please consult the manufacturer specs to see what your model and year is capable of towing. Here are some examples.

  • Super Duty XL 2WD SRW Regular Cab: Tows 21,200 pounds
  • Super Duty XL 2WD Short Bed SRW Super Cab: Tows 15,000 pounds
  • Super Duty XL 2WD Short Bed SRW Crew Cab: Tows 15,000 pounds

Does that mean your Ford F350 can tow a backhoe? Well, let’s see what backhoes weigh on average…

How much does a backhoe weigh?

The average weight of a backhoe varies greatly. Technically, the average is 15,000 pounds, but don’t expect all backhoes to weigh around this range. The smallest of backhoes only weigh about 4,000 pounds, and the largest come in at around 25,000. 

f350 tows backhoe
A smaller backhoe can be towed by a Ford F350 (Credit: https://pixabay.com/photos/construction-site-heavy-equipment-1636318/)

Models like the Cat 415F2 may be too heavy for the average F350 to haul. However, even the low powered models of the F350 could haul Kubota B26s if you wanted. 

The important thing to consider when hauling a backhoe is not going over your vehicle’s recommended towing capacity. Also consider the weight of your actual trailer when determining how much your haul weighs. 

How much can an F350 tow?

Trucks have come a long way in recent years when it comes to towing capacity. Back in 2000, the F350 dually was only rated to pull up to 10,000 pounds. In comparison, the 2019 F350 was rated for 18,000 pounds, and the 2022 F350 for up to 20,000 pounds. 

The 2022 F350 Super Duty is rated at an amazing 32,000 with a gooseneck trailer. Almost all newer F350 models should be capable of hauling a small backhoe if you have a gooseneck hook up in your truck’s bed. 

It’s always best to consult your owner’s manual of your truck and compare it to how much your backhoe weighs before taking it on the road. Most F350s are more than capable of hauling smaller backhoes, but they might have trouble with certain larger models.

Towing capacity is always in consideration when picking out a new truck. You want to be able to haul anything you need with room to spare. 

You’ve likely already hauled other vehicles, trailers with light-loads, and other objects with your F350, but heavier loads might be a mystery to you.

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The image of a backhoe in the article header is via https://pixabay.com/photos/backhoe-heavy-machinery-industry-6933426/

Josh Henderson

Hi I'm Josh and I'm a huge pickup enthusiast. I started this website in 2018 in order to share all my projects and custom mod tips that I've done with my own Ford F-150.

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