Like most domestic pickups, the Ford Super Duty is offered in more configurations than any normal human can count. Ford offers more than 30 variations on the F-250 (the so-called 3/4-ton). And nearly 60 iterations are available in the F-350 (or 1-ton size). Any one of them can pull heavy loads. They offer more truck most consumers will ever need. (And when they aren't enough, Ford builds bigger F-450, F-550, F-650, and F-750 trucks for the commercial market.)
F-250 and F-350 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 as well. Four-wheel-drive models offer either manual-locking or shift-on-the-fly auto-locking hubs.
Short-bed (6-3/4 foot) and long-bed (8-foot) versions are available. Wheelbase lengths include 137 inches (regular cab), 142 inches (SuperCab short-bed), 158 inches (SuperCab long-bed), 156 inches (Crew Cab short-bed), and 172 inches (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.
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 stereo and fixed-interval wipers. Air conditioning ($805) is optional. XLT models are equipped more like the average passenger car, while luxurious Lariats come with 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.
Base prices range from $21,750 for a two-wheel drive XL regular cab up to $41,705 for a long-wheelbase, four-wheel-drive King Ranch Crew Cab with dual rear wheels.
Stand-alone options include a reverse proximity sensor ($245) for 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 late-2004 models. A Sport Package ($895) 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 twill cloth 40/20/40 split-bench front seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The FX4 Off-Road Package ($225) adds skid plates, Rancho shock absorbers, and a steering damper. Skid plates ($100) are also available as a stand-alone option.
Harley-Davidson Editions of the 4WD SuperCab and Crew Cab are also available. They come with all the King Ranch goodies plus 18-inch aluminum wheels and unique Harley-Davidson design cues inside and out. Color choices consist of black, black and orange, and black and gray. Prices range from $39,340 for a short-wheelbase F-250 SuperCab to $42,800 for a long-wheelbase F-350 Crew Cab.