Ford F-550 vs Ram 5500 for Field Service Applications

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Class 5 Chassis Cabs
Class 5 trucks like the Ford F-550 and Ram 5500 have become the backbone of mobile service fleets, utility contractors, and vocational upfitters. With gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) hovering around 19,500 pounds, these chassis cabs offer the payload, towing capacity, and durability needed for demanding field work. Their frames are designed to accommodate cranes, compressors, welders, and custom tool bodies, making them ideal platforms for service truck builds.
Ford introduced the F-550 in the late 1990s as part of its Super Duty expansion, while Ram’s 5500 emerged from the Dodge lineage in the early 2000s. Both have evolved into highly configurable workhorses with diesel and gas options, multiple cab styles, and advanced electronics.
Engine and Transmission Options
Ford F-550:

• 7.3L V8 gas engine with 468 lb-ft of torque
  
• 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel with up to 825 lb-ft of torque
  
• 10-speed TorqShift automatic transmission with selectable drive modes
  

Ram 5500:

• 6.4L HEMI V8 gas engine with 429 lb-ft of torque
  
• 6.7L Cummins I6 turbo diesel with up to 800 lb-ft of torque
  
• 6-speed Aisin HD automatic transmission
  

The Ford diesel offers slightly more torque and a broader gear range, which benefits towing and low-speed maneuvering. The Cummins inline-six is known for its simplicity and longevity, though some operators find it noisier and more vibration-prone than Ford’s V8.
A fleet manager in Alberta reported smoother idle and quieter cab acoustics with the Ford diesel, while his Ram units required more frequent exhaust system inspections due to vibration-related wear.
Payload and Towing Capacity
Ford F-550:

• Max payload: approx. 12,750 lbs
  
• Max towing: up to 31,600 lbs (gooseneck configuration)
  

Ram 5500:

• Max payload: approx. 11,140 lbs
  
• Max towing: up to 35,220 lbs (gooseneck configuration)
  

While Ram edges out Ford in towing capacity, Ford maintains a payload advantage, which is critical for service bodies loaded with tools, parts, and auxiliary equipment. The difference in GVWR is marginal—Ford at 19,500 lbs vs Ram at 19,000 lbs—but Ford’s frame and suspension tuning often allow more upfit flexibility.
A contractor in Texas outfitted his F-550 with a 6,000-lb crane, compressor, and welder without exceeding payload limits. His Ram 5500 required reinforced rear springs to handle similar gear.
Drivetrain and 4WD Considerations
Ford uses manually locking front hubs in its 4WD system, which reduces wear when disengaged. Ram’s front hubs are always engaged, which can lead to premature driveshaft and U-joint wear. This difference affects long-term maintenance costs, especially in off-road or snow-prone environments.
A snow removal operator in Michigan replaced two Ram front driveshafts within three seasons due to constant engagement. His Ford units showed no such failures.
Cab Comfort and Interior Features
Ford:

• SYNC 4 infotainment system with large touchscreen
  
• Optional digital instrument cluster
  
• More modern dashboard layout
  

Ram:

• Uconnect system with touchscreen interface
  
• Traditional analog gauges
  
• Slightly more legroom in crew cab configurations
  

Operators spending long hours in the cab often prefer Ford’s more refined interior, though Ram’s seats are praised for comfort. Both offer vinyl or cloth options, upfitter switches, and auxiliary power outlets.
Serviceability and Maintenance Access
Ram’s Cummins engine layout offers easier access to the turbo, injectors, and accessory belt components due to its inline configuration. Ford’s V8 layout is more compact but can be tighter to work on in the engine bay.
A mechanic in Oregon noted that injector replacement on the Ram took half the time compared to the Ford, though Ford’s diagnostic systems were more intuitive and offered better fault isolation.
Common Issues and Reliability Trends
Ford:

• Occasional DEF sensor failures in diesel models
  
• Transmission programming updates required for optimal shift behavior
  
• Strong dealer support and parts availability
  

Ram:

• Driveshaft and hub wear in 4WD systems
  
• Exhaust backpressure sensor failures in diesel variants
  
• Limited cab corrosion protection in older models
  

Both brands have improved reliability over the past decade, with engines routinely reaching 200,000 miles in fleet use. Preventive maintenance and proper upfitting are key to longevity.
Stories from the Field
In Alaska, a utility company ran a mixed fleet of F-550 and Ram 5500 service trucks. The Ford units performed better in deep snow due to their hub disengagement, while the Rams excelled in towing heavy trailers up steep grades.
In Florida, a mobile welding outfit preferred the Ram 5500 for its Cummins engine and simpler turbo layout. After adding a custom aluminum body and crane, the truck remained under GVWR and delivered consistent performance.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Ford F-550 and Ram 5500 depends on payload needs, drivetrain preferences, and service strategy. Ford offers slightly better payload and interior refinement, while Ram delivers superior towing and easier engine access. For field service applications, both are capable platforms—but understanding the nuances of each can lead to smarter upfits and longer service life.