The all-new F-600 chassis cab features a Class 6 maximum GVWR of 22,000 pounds in a Class 5 Super Duty package, hitting what Super Duty Chief Engineer Michael Pruitt calls the “sweet spot in capability.”
Ford’s latest all-new big truck for the 2021 model year signals somewhat of rebirth of an F-Series original.
While the F-600 is the same size as an F-550, it uses upgraded driveline and chassis components, as well as higher-weight-rated 19.5-inch tires and wheels to achieve a higher GVWR. It will be available with two gasoline or a diesel powertrain choices — Ford’s new 7.3-liter gas V8, a third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel or a 6.2-liter gas — and in 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains.
While Ford has yet to release power ratings for its all-new 445 cubic inch, 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine, which was announced last month for F-Series Super Duty pickups, the company says it generates more torque and power than the 6.8-liter V10 engine it replaces. Ratings for the third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel are also not yet available.
An all-new 10- speed TorqShift automatic transmission is available across all engine offerings with available live-drive power takeoff provision with up to 300 lb.-ft. of torque. Ford Transmission Systems Manager Greg Stout says the new 10-speed is fundamentally similar to the 10-speed that debuted on F-150 last year but according to the manager.
“It shares the same architecture and power flow — the same number of clutches and the same number of planetary gears — but the parts are bigger, beefier and stronger just to match the engine capability,” Stout says.
All Ford commercial vehicle product lines are updated with standard modems with 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices to help keep drivers and crews connected while on the job or on the road.
New Ford Telematics and Ford Data Services are available across the lineup, enabling fleet managers to enhance uptime and asset utilization, optimize running costs, improve driver behavior and protect their fleets using Ford OEM-grade telematics software, integrating with the company’s existing telematics service provider or taking vehicle data directly into their own IT systems.
Ford also is offering updates to its heaviest models, the Class 6-7 medium duty F-650 and F-750. These trucks will come equipped with either the new 7.3-liter gas engine or updated 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8. Production of model year 2021 F-650 and F-750 begins early January 2020.
