*Not actual model
Hastings Ford – Which Engine Is Best for a 2026 Ford Super Duty® F-350® if You Tow Near Grand Island, NE?
Choosing the right engine for a 2026 Ford Super Duty® F-350® comes down to your heaviest load, towing frequency, and how often you’re driving unladen around town. Near Grand Island, NE, we see a broad mix of needs—from contractors pulling skid steers and materials to RVers towing fifth-wheels across the Plains. The good news: every F-350® engine pairs with a stout 10-speed automatic and selectable drive modes, and the chassis is purpose-built for heavy trailers. What changes with each engine is how the truck feels in the real world and how much it gives you on the most demanding days.
If you’re towing often and value maximum torque, the available 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel (500 hp/1,200 lb-ft) brings best-in-class diesel horsepower and torque for confident launches, long-grade climbs, and stability at speed with large goosenecks. It’s the right call for frequent heavy towing or if you want a margin of capability for wind, heat, and elevation. The standard 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel (475 hp/1,050 lb-ft) still delivers robust performance—adequate for big campers and heavy equipment—while offering slightly different drivability and operating characteristics that some owners prefer. If your loads are moderate and you prioritize simplicity, the 7.3L gas V8 (430 hp/485 lb-ft) is a proven workhorse with strong low-end pull and straightforward ownership. For mixed-duty fleets with lighter trailers or frequent stop-and-go driving, the 6.8L gas V8 (405 hp/445 lb-ft) offers capable performance and a friendly day-to-day feel.
- Towing priorities: If your trailer approaches the upper limits, choose the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel for maximum reserve torque and best-in-class muscle.
- Mixed workload: For varied towing under heavy but not extreme loads, the 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel balances power and refinement.
- Operational simplicity: If you prefer a gas engine’s straightforward ownership and still tow regularly, the 7.3L V8 provides confident pull and durability.
- Local duty cycles: For lighter trailers, frequent short trips, or fleet commonality, the 6.8L V8 is a capable and efficient-feeling match for daily demands.
Beyond the engine, consider the technologies that make towing easier and safer. Available Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ simplifies reversing with a trailer, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™ helps align hitch and receiver, and Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch can assist with load estimates for smarter weight distribution. Add the available 360-Degree Camera and PowerScope® trailer tow mirrors to improve visibility in tight yards and busy job sites. If your routes include gravel roads or fields, available Tremor®, FX4®, or XL Off-Road Packages add traction and protection that pay off the first time conditions get slick.
Inside the cabin, available SYNC® 4 with a 12-inch center display keeps you connected on long hauls, while the available head-up display places key info where you can see it at a glance. The Interior Work Surface creates a usable space for paperwork or a laptop when you’re parked—an underrated upgrade if your truck doubles as your office. For power in the field, 2kW Pro Power Onboard™ lets you plug in tools, lights, or accessories at a job site or campsite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I choose between SRW and DRW for my F-350®?
Single rear wheel (SRW) offers easier maneuverability and parking, while dual rear wheel (DRW) provides added rear-end stability for heavy fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing. If you regularly approach the upper end of the F-350® tow ratings, DRW is a smart choice.
Is the 7.3L gas V8 enough for frequent towing?
Yes, for many owners. With 430 hp and 485 lb-ft, the 7.3L gas V8 confidently handles moderate-to-heavy trailers. If you’re at or near the truck’s highest tow numbers often—or you want the most effortless feel with large loads—the Power Stroke® diesels provide more reserve.
Which towing technologies are most helpful for beginners?
Available Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ and Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™ are game changers for new towers. Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch helps you balance the load, while the 360-Degree Camera reduces blind spots around the truck and trailer.
What interior features should I consider for long trips?
Available SYNC® 4 on a 12-inch display, an available head-up display, wireless charging, and the Interior Work Surface make long drives more comfortable and productive. Seating for up to six lets you bring the crew or family along with room to spare.
At Hastings Ford, we’ll help you test drive the engines back to back and walk through SRW vs. DRW, tow tech, and off-road packages. With one visit, you’ll know which F-350® build fits your heaviest day—and every day in between—while serving Juniata, Grand Island, and Aurora with a transparent, customer-first approach.
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