GVWR Question

[scottz]

Just picked up my new 2011 F350; great truck, but I have a question on the GVWR.
This is a 2011 F350 Cab&Chassis, super cab, SRW, 4x4, diesel.

When I ordered it (Fleet order, company truck) all the information I could find on the Ford web site and brochures said this configuration had a GVWR of 11500.

When I saw the order sheet from PHH, it said "9800 GVWR package". I panicked and called the fleet coordiantor who called PHH (just like dealing with the government); we were assured the truck had a 11500 GVWR.

Ok, fast forward to delivery day. The door decal says the GVWR is 10000. What gives? Did we miss something when ordering the truck? Is this some attempt by Ford to keep the GVWR at 10000 or below to meet regulatory requirments? Is it really limited to 10k?

Not that it matters; we own the truck now. If it's not right, I can have a couple leafs added to the springs (like I did my 05 which had a 9900GVWR); but I think it will be ok.

BTW: I run a service body on the truck and usually weigh about 11k.

[ShawnCT450R]

Congrats on the new ride! Throw up a pic when you get a chance.

[POWERSTROKEMIKE]

I know someone will post on here.. but pretty sure casue its a F350 its limited to 10,000

[scottz]

Did some more looking at Vehicle Specifications and Options - Ford Commercial Trucks (select "super cab", "4x4" and "no" for DRW to see correct specs).

The DRW F350 is rated at 13000 GVWR.

The SRW F350 shows three differenct GVWR's for the XL version: 9800, 11500, 10600. I'm pretty sure the different weights relate to the engine options. Seems like the 6.7 diesel should be 11500.

So, how did I get 10000 and what did I do wrong in the order process not to get the 11500? Still scratching my head!

Thanks

[scottz]

GVWR F350.jpg

[bobsquatch]

When I ordered my 02 I ordered the camper package and the heavy duty springs wich got me the 9700 lb gvw this may have been redundant but it got me the biggest gvwr possible at the time. You had to go drw to get 11500 back then. Now I see you can still order these options as well as the snow plow pkg and others that would probably up the gvwr and make the truck taller. Everyone thought mine was lifted;-)

[scottz]

I fixed mine by removing the overload leafs on the rear and adding two leafs to the main stack. It's plenty stout now. My normal, everyday weight is 10400.

[bobsquatch]

Yeah, its just a paperwork thing. You can not increase the legal capacity of your vehicle. The door jam sticker applies in court no matter what mods you make. The only problem would be in an injury accident there could be some liability issues. As far as capabilities go I would be comfortable at 150% capacity on any one of these beasts and your mods will just improve the longevity of the spring packs. (I bet it barely sagged if at all prior to the mods). I am good for 9700 but only run that about 25% of the time. 3/4 of the time I am only 7000. Back before they stole it anyway...

[smotrs]

If I recall correctly, the 2011's were de-rated on the towing capacity compared to the 6.4's. It was a heated debate for a while on other forums.