F250 or F150… which is better for towing and daily use?

I’m currently using a 2000 Ford Ranger, which has been fine for towing, but I’m ready to upgrade to something more family-friendly. I do landscaping construction full-time, so there’s a bit of towing for work (15-30 miles to job sites) and a second job with a 14-mile round-trip commute. I also tow a 15-foot camping trailer and a 20-foot boat trailer for 200-300-mile trips with my family.

Would an F150 be enough for my needs, or should I consider an F250? Also, is getting a diesel smart for future-proofing, or would gas be more practical? Looking for advice on what would suit my situation best.

Diesels hold their value better and can handle higher mileage without a big hit to reliability. They might be overkill for your needs, but they’re a solid long-term option.

Aza said:
Diesels hold their value better and can handle higher mileage without a big hit to reliability. They might be overkill for your needs, but they’re a solid long-term option.

That’s true, and they’re generally more reliable. The 10-speed in the F150 has had some issues, whereas the Super Duty platform tends to be more robust. An F150 would likely do the job, but diesels are just cooler. Plus, they’re built to last longer.

@Thayer
You can also install a CP3 kit to avoid the CP4 fuel pump issues some Powerstrokes have had. There are conversion kits with decent reviews.

Aza said:
Diesels hold their value better and can handle higher mileage without a big hit to reliability. They might be overkill for your needs, but they’re a solid long-term option.

I’d argue that newer diesels lose value faster than older ones because of all the emissions systems. DEF systems, sensors, and filters can add expensive repairs. If you’re towing what you described, the F150 PowerBoost might be a better option. It’s got good towing capacity, lower upkeep costs, and comes with cool features like generator mode for camping.

Unless you’re towing heavy trailers for long distances regularly, avoid a diesel. I’ve owned several diesels (Dodge, Powerstroke, Duramax) and have had expensive issues with all of them. If you don’t need the power, go with a gas truck. It’ll save you money and headaches in the long run.

How much do your trailers weigh? If your Ranger handles them, I’m guessing they’re not too heavy.

Archer said:
How much do your trailers weigh? If your Ranger handles them, I’m guessing they’re not too heavy.

Fully loaded, the camping trailer is about 4,700 lbs, and I’ve got my bike in the bed too. Not a lot for a truck.

@Aza
An F150 should handle that no problem.

@Aza
If the trailer is only 15 feet, an F150 would be fine. I upgraded to a 250 because my 30-foot trailer got blown around too much with an F150.

Diesels need time to warm up properly, and short commutes can cause problems. If your daily drive is less than 20 minutes, you might want to stick with gas.

A 2015+ F150 Crew Cab can tow 12,000 lbs and has a comfortable interior. For your needs, it sounds like the F150 is plenty. Modern diesels are expensive to buy and maintain, and unless you’re towing heavy loads regularly, they’re not worth it.

It comes down to your budget and what you value most. The diesel F250 will tow better and last longer with heavy loads, but the F150 will be cheaper to operate and maintain. If you’re not towing heavy all the time, the F150 is probably enough.

Get the F250. You might expand your business in the future, and it’ll be good to have the extra capability.

It’s not about what your truck can pull; it’s about what it can stop. If you’re towing regularly and want to feel safer on the road, go with the F250.

Get an F450, drive it to work and soccer practice, and never tow with it. Just kidding, but seriously, think about how much truck you actually need for your specific situation.