The Ford F-350 Super Duty, equipped with the legendary 7.3L PowerStroke diesel engine, represents a pinnacle in heavy-duty truck engineering. This workhorse combines exceptional towing capability, robust construction, and remarkable durability that continues to earn respect from truck enthusiasts decades later. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this iconic pickup stand out.

Engine Performance and Specifications

At the heart of the F-350 Super Duty lies the renowned 7.3L PowerStroke diesel engine, a testament to the Ford commitment to power and reliability. This V8 turbocharged diesel powerplant delivers impressive performance metrics that translate to real-world capability.

The 7.3L PowerStroke produces 175 kW (235 horsepower) at 2,700 RPM and generates 525 Nm (387 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,800 RPM. This low-end torque delivery makes the F-350 exceptionally capable for towing heavy loads and navigating challenging terrain with confidence.

The engine architecture features:

• 7.3 litre (444 cubic inch) displacement
• V8 configuration with 4 valves per cylinder
• Direct injection with HEUI (Hydraulic Electronic Unit Injectors)
• Single turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler
• Cast iron block and cylinder heads for maximum durability
• 17.5:1 compression ratio
• 10.5 litre oil capacity

This powertrain stands out for its reliability, with many examples surpassing 500,000 kilometers with proper maintenance. The mechanical simplicity, combined with robust construction, creates a package that withstands the test of time better than many contemporary counterparts.

2000 F-350 Super Duty Transmission Options

The F-350 Super Duty offers two transmission choices to pair with the PowerStroke diesel:

Manual Transmission

The ZF6 six-speed manual transmission provides direct control and exceptional durability. With a granny-low first gear (rated at 5.79:1), the manual option delivers precise control for heavy towing situations and off-road navigation.

Automatic Transmission

The 4R100 heavy-duty automatic transmission features four forward gears and includes:

• Electronic shift control
• Overdrive for improved highway fuel economy
• Tow/Haul mode for optimized shift points under load
• Auxiliary transmission cooler for sustained performance
• Lockup torque converter to reduce heat and improve efficiency

Both transmission options route power through a transfer case on 4×4 models, allowing drivers to select between two-wheel drive for everyday driving and four-wheel drive for challenging conditions.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The F-350 Super Duty earns its reputation through exceptional capability that translates to real-world utility. The towing specifications demonstrate why this truck remains sought after for demanding applications:

• Conventional towing capacity: up to 6,350 kg
• Fifth-wheel towing capacity: up to 6,940 kg
• Payload capacity: up to 2,110 kilograms (varies by configuration)

These impressive numbers result from the robust chassis design, powerful diesel engine, and purpose-built components throughout the drivetrain. Whether hauling equipment to work sites or towing recreational vehicles for weekend adventures, the F-350 delivers reliable performance.

Chassis and Suspension

The F-350 is built on a fully boxed frame, constructed from high-strength steel, which provides a solid foundation for its impressive capabilities. This platform offers exceptional rigidity and durability compared to many competitors of the era.

Front Suspension

• Twin I-beam suspension on two-wheel drive models
• Solid axle with coil springs on four-wheel drive models
• Heavy-duty shock absorbers
• Stabilizer bar for improved handling and reduced body roll

Rear Suspension

• Solid axle with leaf springs
• Staggered shock absorber placement to reduce axle hop
• Optional dual rear wheels (DRW) for increased stability and payload capacity

The suspension design strikes a balance between load-carrying capability and reasonable ride comfort. Although the ride quality improves noticeably when carrying cargo, the suspension was primarily designed for operation with a load.

Braking System

Safety remains paramount in a vehicle designed to move substantial loads. The F-350 features a robust braking system with:

• Front disc brakes: 330 mm ventilated rotors
• Rear disc brakes: 322 mm ventilated rotors
• Four-wheel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
• Hydro-boost brake assist for improved pedal feel and emergency stopping power

The system provides confident stopping power even when fully loaded or towing, with the ABS system preventing wheel lockup in emergency situations or on slippery road surfaces.

Exterior Dimensions

The F-350 Super Duty presents an imposing profile that reflects its capability:

Regular Cab

• Length: 5,720 mm
• Width (excluding mirrors): 2,029 mm
• Width (including mirrors): 2,413 mm
• Height: 1,920 mm
• Wheelbase: 3,480 mm

SuperCab

• Length: 6,085 mm
• Width (excluding mirrors): 2,029 mm
• Width (including mirrors): 2,413 mm
• Height: 1,942 mm
• Wheelbase: 4,192 mm

Crew Cab

• Length: 6,340 mm
• Width (excluding mirrors): 2,029 mm
• Width (including mirrors): 2,413 mm
• Height: 1,966 mm
• Wheelbase: 4,445 mm

Dual rear wheel models (dually) add approximately 200 mm to the overall width, creating a commanding presence and improved stability for towing heavy trailers.

Interior Comfort and Features

Despite its work-truck credentials, the F-350 offers a surprisingly comfortable interior with thoughtful features for driver and passengers:

Seating Options

• Regular cab: Up to three passengers
• SuperCab: Up to six passengers with rear bench seat
• Crew Cab: Up to six passengers with full-size rear doors and seating

Available Interior Features

• Power windows, locks, and mirrors
• Tilt steering column
• Air conditioning
• AM/FM stereo with cassette player
• Premium audio option with CD player
• Optional leather upholstery
• Overhead console with trip computer
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Split front bench with fold-down center console

The interior design prioritizes functionality, featuring easy-to-reach controls, durable materials, and ample storage options throughout the cabin.

Off-Road Capability

Four-wheel drive models offer impressive off-road performance for a vehicle of this size:

• Manual-shift transfer case with 2H, 4H, and 4L modes
• 4.10:1 axle ratio available for improved low-speed control
• 216 mm ground clearance
• Limited-slip differential available for improved traction
• Skid plates for vital underbody components

The combination of low-end torque from the PowerStroke diesel engine and robust four-wheel drive system allows the F-350 to navigate challenging terrain despite its substantial size and weight.

Fuel System and Efficiency

The fuel system in the PowerStroke diesel engine represents a significant advancement over previous generations:

• 106-litre primary fuel tank
• Optional 127-litre fuel tank
• HEUI (Hydraulic Electronic Unit Injection) system
• Split-shot injection for reduced noise and improved efficiency
• Fuel filter/water separator system

Fuel efficiency varies significantly based on driving conditions, load, and maintenance, but owners typically report:

• Highway driving: approximately 12-14 litres per 100 kilometers
• City driving: approximately 18-20 litres per 100 kilometers
• Towing heavy loads: 22-28 litres per 100 kilometers

Maintenance Considerations

The 7.3L PowerStroke diesel requires specific maintenance to ensure longevity:

• Oil changes every 8,000 kilometers with 15W-40 diesel-rated oil
• Fuel filter replacement every 16,000 kilometers
• Air filter inspection every 24,000 kilometers
• Transmission fluid and filter service every 48,000 kilometers
• Coolant flush recommended every 80,000 kilometers

With proper maintenance, these engines routinely achieve exceptional service life beyond 400,000 kilometers, with many examples surpassing 500,000 kilometers before requiring a major overhaul.

Special Editions and Trim Levels

The F-350 Super Duty was available in several trim configurations:

XL (Base Trim)

• Vinyl seating surfaces
• Manual windows and locks
• Basic instrumentation
• Painted steel wheels

XLT

• Cloth seating surfaces
• Power windows and locks
• Chrome bumpers and grille
• Tilt steering wheel
• Air conditioning

Lariat

• Leather-trimmed seating
• Premium audio system
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Wood-grain interior accents
• Aluminum wheels

Limited Edition

• Two-tone exterior paint
• Unique interior appointments
• Special badging
• Chrome exterior accents
• Premium wheel designs

2000 Ford F-350 Super Duty: Robust and Reliable 

The Ford F-350 Super Duty, equipped with the 7.3L PowerStroke diesel engine, represents a pinnacle in heavy-duty truck design. Its exceptional capability, reliable powertrain, and robust construction created a package that continues to command respect and maintain value decades after its introduction.

For drivers seeking a powerful, durable, and capable truck, the F-350 Super Duty remains an excellent choice that strikes a balance between raw capability and reasonable comfort. While technology has advanced considerably in newer models, the mechanical simplicity and proven durability of this generation continue to attract enthusiasts and working professionals alike.

Whether towing heavy trailers, hauling substantial payloads, or simply serving as a dependable daily driver, this iconic truck delivers the performance and reliability that established the Ford reputation in the heavy-duty truck segment.

*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*