F350 has taller blocks under springs and the overload springs I believe, otherwise they're mostly identical to f250s.

If you look at fords tow chart, the same vehicle in 4x4 has a slightly lower tow rating, and vehicles with lower gearing (higher numerically) have a higher rating. That said, the slightly stiffer rear under load should tow a little better by feeling.

The diesel motor doesn't allow the truck to handle more, it just tows nicer when accelerating and driving. Less effort along with better mileage. The 350 will sit more level when loaded and carry the weight better. When you're sitting lower in the back the steering tends to be a little washy

The tow rating is a culmination of multiple factors. The motor, frame strength, axle capability, gvwr, etc..

 

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weight capacities in the truck (or over each axle), will be different. The F350 can "Legally" carry more weight in the bed or a 5th wheel trailer pin weight, especially dual rear wheels.....

 

Things started to change with the Alumaduty

Ford Super Duty Trucks: F-250 vs F-350 | Advantage Ford

In the market for a new Ford truck? Trying to decide between the F-250 and F-350? Let's lay out the logistics and determine what ride is best for you.

www.advantageford.ca

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Towing Capacity
If these trucks are built with the same body, have the same engine, and all of the same options, then what makes the difference between the two? Well, it’s the towing capacity.

Similarities:

• Both trucks have industry-leading towing capacities
• New F-250s and F-350s are equipped with Dana 60 front and rear axles; except in the case of dually’s which come with a Dana 80 rear axle by default.

Differences:

• The F-350 has a significantly higher maximum towing capacity compared to the F-250. The max capacity for an F-350 is 32,000lbs, while the F-250 maxes out at 18,500 lbs.
• The F-350 also has a higher average payload than the F-250; the F-350 can have a maximum payload of 7,640 lbs. while the F-250 can have a maximum payload of 4,270 lbs.
• Both maximum payload and towing capacity do depend upon the engine, cab style, and bed size, so there are certain configurations of F-350s that can tow and hold less than an F-250.
• That being said, the F-350 has many higher-power truck configurations than the F-250. Therefore, the F-350 is generally stronger and more prepared for heavy-duty work.
• Finally, the F-350’s suspension is specially tuned for recreational and commercial towing; it has a tight rear spring and a reinforced midsection, which makes it ideal for towing projects.

 

Thanks for the explanation. I always thought it was mainly the engine and tranny which were the main determining factors with the shocks, struts etc. being a secondary factor.
So the engine and tranny might handle towing heavier loads than what paperwork says but if the frame can't handle it then I suppose the frame bends? Being newbish to hauling tell me what'll happen if I continuously haul 16k lbs. No, I'll be clear right now, I'm not hauling that much but it will be nice to know. Also there have been times in the past where I was asked to haul 23k lbs with the truck. "Just once". Needless to say the answers no but what would happen on the rate occasion that some did that, "just once"? I like knowing the limits to my machinery and also the reason for those limits.

I bought this truck with a 6" lift and 3:31 gears. It's also been "deleted" and "tuned" for towing. None of this really matters though if the frame of the truck or the suspension isn't cut out for it right?

Thanks again calif250 for the explanation.

 

You have a high gearing setup, with larger tires it makes it even higher. It will pull the max it is rated for but it won't like it much on the accelerations.

I've seen people do some pretty incredible things. You are risking a lot by not following the specs. The specs are there for your safety and others on the road. If it's not designed for it with all the factors complimenting each other then your asking for trouble. 16k 5wheel or bumper pull? Bumper with 16k is 1600 on the ball and that's likely way over your hitch rating. 16k on 5wheel could be done but it really won't like it and it's not safe. At that weight you'll want a dually.

 

16k with gooseneck. The truck was expensive enough that I don't really want to destroy it. If like to take care of it, use it for what's is supposed to be used for and to the fullest I can, but keep it in good condition to the best of my ability, which is the reason I'm here.
Thanks to all for all the answers because you're really helping me to keep my truck in the best condition I can.

 

15 to 30% tongue weight. Your payload is likely about 2k. 15% is 2400lbs. Youre a little over your payload when minimum is on the ball. Your high gearing will also take its toll on your drivetrain components. This also depends on where you're towing. At that weight you'll see your oil temp and egt's go sky high up a grade because of your gearing. The motor will pull it, but you'll be risking damage. On the flats it would pull it but you're still risking it. That has too much written all over it.

A dually is your best choice. They have much higher payloads and 4.30 gearing. They don't like fast freeway speeds but they'll pull big trailers at a reasonable pace all day long.