Ford F250 Fuel Pump Replacement: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Replacing the fuel pump assembly on your Ford F250 diesel (like the popular 6.7L Power Stroke) or gasoline engine (such as the 5.4L or 6.2L) is a significant, potentially demanding repair often requiring fuel tank removal. While feasible for mechanically experienced DIYers with the right tools, patience, and safety focus, understanding the complexity, correct diagnostic steps, choosing quality parts, and meticulously following the process is paramount for success and preventing costly mistakes or dangers. Fuel pump failure manifests clearly – crank/no start, hesitation, power loss – demanding prompt attention. Choosing between OEM Ford, high-quality aftermarket, or complete assembly kits hinges on budget and long-term ownership plans. Crucially, this job involves flammable gasoline/diesel and critical pressurized fuel systems; ignoring safety protocols like depressurizing the system and fire prevention measures can lead to severe injury or fire. Proper preparation, sourcing accurate procedures (like factory service manuals or reputable online guides specific to your year), and allocating sufficient time are non-negotiable keys to getting your Super Duty back on the road reliably.

Recognizing Fuel Pump Failure Symptoms in Your F250

The fuel pump is the heart of your truck's fuel delivery system. When it begins to fail or fails completely, the symptoms are usually pronounced and progressively worsen. Ignoring these signs risks leaving you stranded. The most definitive signal is a crank/no start condition. The engine turns over normally, but it refuses to catch and run. This strongly points to a complete lack of fuel pressure, though further diagnostics are still needed. Loss of power under load, especially when accelerating, climbing hills, or pulling a trailer, is another classic indicator. The engine may surge or stumble as fuel demand increases and the failing pump can't keep up. You might notice engine hesitation or stumbling during normal driving, particularly noticeable when pressing the accelerator pedal firmly. Sudden, unexplained engine stalling while driving, sometimes restarting after a brief wait and sometimes requiring more time, is a serious warning sign linked to a failing pump cutting out intermittently. Significantly reduced fuel pressure, measured directly at the fuel rail with a gauge, falls below the manufacturer's specified range (consult your year/model's specs). Finally, listen intently near the fuel tank for unusual noises originating from the pump itself. A loud, constant whine, grinding sound, buzzing that doesn't stop, or the complete absence of its characteristic brief whirring sound for a few seconds when the ignition is turned on (prior to cranking) strongly suggests pump trouble. Always remember to rule out simpler issues like a completely dead battery preventing cranking, an empty fuel tank (!), a blown fuel pump fuse (check both cab and engine bay fuse panels), or a faulty fuel pump relay before concluding it's the pump itself.

Essential Pre-Replacement Diagnosis: Confirming the Fuel Pump is the Culprit

Jumping straight to fuel pump replacement without proper verification is expensive and unnecessary. Bypassing critical diagnostic steps risks replacing a functional part while leaving the actual problem unresolved. Begin by performing a visual inspection. Locate the fuel pump fuse and relay in your F250's fuse boxes (typically one under the dash and one under the hood - refer to your owner's manual). Visually inspect the fuse to see if the element inside is broken. Swap the fuel pump relay with a known good identical relay from another non-critical circuit (like the horn). If the engine starts after swapping relays, you've found your problem without replacing the pump. Next, check for fuel pressure at the rail. Locate the fuel pressure test port on your engine's fuel rail (common on gasoline engines). Rent or buy a fuel pressure gauge kit. Attach the gauge securely. Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position without starting the engine. The pump should prime and you should see pressure build immediately on the gauge (refer to specs for your exact engine - often between 35-65 PSI for gasoline). If pressure is low or absent after the prime cycle, this points strongly to a pump, wiring, or control issue. Finally, evaluate electrical signals. Using a digital multimeter, check for battery voltage at the fuel pump electrical connector at the tank (this usually requires accessing the connector above or near the tank) while the ignition is turned to "ON" or while a helper cranks the engine. If proper voltage (close to battery voltage ~12V) is present at the connector during the prime/crank cycle and you still get no pressure or pump operation, the pump itself is almost certainly dead. Conversely, if voltage is missing, the fault lies upstream (fuse, relay, inertia switch, wiring, or PCM).

Gathering the Right Parts: Choosing Your F250 Fuel Pump

Selecting the appropriate fuel pump assembly is critical for reliability and longevity. Parts interchange significantly depending on model year (e.g., 2000-2004 Super Duty "old body style," 2005-2010, 2011-2016, and 2017+ newer generations have variations) and engine type (diesel vs. gasoline). Using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the single best way to ensure parts compatibility. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, typically branded Motorcraft for Ford, are the exact specification pump supplied with your truck originally. They offer the highest assurance of fit and performance but generally carry the highest price. High-Quality Tier 1 Aftermarket brands (like Bosch, Delphi, Denso, Carter, or Airtex Premium / Master) often meet or exceed OEM specifications. They provide excellent reliability at a lower cost than genuine Ford parts and are a preferred choice for many professional technicians and experienced DIYers seeking balance. Complete Assemblies vs. Pump Only: Often, the recommended approach is replacing the entire "sender unit" assembly. This includes not only the pump motor itself but also the fuel level sending unit (float and sensor), the basket (strainer housing), the fuel filter/sock, the locking ring, seals, and integrated wiring. Since accessing the pump requires dropping the tank, replacing all wear-prone components in the assembly simultaneously saves future headaches. Installing just a standalone pump motor into a potentially degraded assembly (especially common in older F250s) risks premature repeat failure due to a worn strainer or faulty sending unit. Consider the Filter/Sock: The fuel sock filter attached to the pump intake is crucial. It's inexpensive but vital. Ensure your replacement assembly includes a new one or buy it separately if replacing only the pump motor. Essential Seals and Gaskets: A new fuel tank lock ring is highly recommended – the original is often corroded or distorted and struggles to seal correctly upon reuse. A high-quality seal/gasket kit for the pump assembly-to-tank connection is non-negotiable. Reusing the old gasket/seal is asking for a dangerous fuel leak. Universal Pumps: Avoid them. Specificity is critical for pressure, flow, and electrical compatibility. Diesel vs. Gasoline: NEVER substitute a gasoline pump for a diesel application or vice-versa. Flow rates, pressures, and internal materials are vastly different. Purchase parts only from reputable suppliers specializing in truck or Ford parts to mitigate the risk of counterfeits.

Mandatory Tools & Safety Equipment for F250 Fuel Pump Replacement

Success and safety demand gathering the right tools beforehand. Underestimating this requirement turns the job into a frustrating ordeal. Safety is Paramount: Fire Extinguisher: An ABC-rated fire extinguisher MUST be within immediate reach throughout the entire job. Fuel vapors are highly flammable. Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from debris, fuel splash, and rust falling during tank lowering. Gloves: Heavy-duty mechanics gloves protect hands from sharp edges, dirt, and minor fuel contact. Well-Ventilated Area: Perform this work outside or in a garage with high ventilation; fuel vapors are toxic and flammable. NEVER perform this job near open flames, sparks (including electrical switches), lit cigarettes, or with live electrical tools near exposed fuel. Essential Tools: Socket & Ratchet Set: Includes metric sockets (deep sockets beneficial), ratchets, various extensions, and a reliable breaker bar. Key sizes often needed: 15mm, 18mm, 19mm, 13mm, 10mm. Torque Wrench: Crucial for correctly tightening critical fasteners like fuel lines and the tank strap bolts to prevent leaks or failure. Floor Jack and Sturdy Jack Stands (Minimum 3-Ton Rating): Absolutely required for safely lowering and supporting the heavy fuel tank. Drip Pans / Drain Pans: Multiple large-capacity pans necessary for catching spilled fuel during disconnections and tank lowering. Also useful for temporarily laying the dirty assembly upon removal. Fuel Line Disconnect Tools: Specific plastic or metal tools designed for Ford's unique push-to-connect fuel line fittings (common on supply and return lines). Using the wrong size or trying without the tool will damage the fittings. Purchase a set with Ford sizes (usually 3/8" & 5/16" or equivalent mm). Fuel Resistant Seal Picks / Small Screwdrivers: For carefully removing the old tank seal and tank ring gasket without gouging the plastic tank flange surface. Hammer & Punch or Brass Drift: Often needed to gently tap the locking ring loose initially if heavily corroded. Avoid steel punches directly on the ring to prevent sparks. Fuel Transfer Pump / Siphoning Kit: To safely empty the fuel tank below at least 1/4 full (ideally near empty) before removal. Flammable liquid sloshing in a tank under tension creates enormous hazard. Wire Brushes / Cleaning Supplies: For cleaning corrosion off the electrical connector contacts on the truck wiring harness and the exposed top of the fuel tank flange before installing the new assembly. Penetrating Oil (e.g., PB Blaster, Kroil): Apply liberally to tank strap bolts and skid plate bolts (if equipped) several hours beforehand, or even the day before. These bolts are notoriously prone to corrosion-induced seizing, especially in northern climates. New Fasteners: Consider replacing the tank strap bolts if they are severely corroded or damaged during removal.

The Core Process: Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your F250 Fuel Pump

This guide outlines the primary steps for models requiring tank lowering (common for most F250s without factory bed access panels). CRITICAL FIRST STEPS: De-Power and De-Pressurize! Disconnect the negative terminal of the truck's main battery. For gasoline engines: Locate the fuel pump fuse or relay, remove it, then crank the engine for 10-15 seconds. This bleeds off pressure in the fuel rail and lines. For diesel engines: Consult specific shutdown procedure to relieve residual pressure in the common rail. STEP 1: Empty the Fuel Tank. Safely siphon or pump out the fuel from the tank's filler neck until the level is as low as possible. STEP 2: Raise the Rear of the Truck. Securely lift the rear of the truck with the floor jack and support it on sturdy jack stands rated for sufficient weight. Ensure the truck is absolutely stable. Chock the front wheels. STEP 3: Access Pump Connection & Disconnect Electrical/Supply/Return Lines. Depending on your year (typically 2005+), you may access the fuel pump assembly top connection by removing a plastic access cover located in the truck bed floor, requiring bed liner removal if necessary. Older models generally require proceeding to dropping the tank. If accessible, carefully disconnect the electrical harness connector to the pump module. Disconnect the main fuel supply line (high pressure to engine) and fuel return line (low pressure back to tank) using the appropriate fuel line disconnect tools. Caution: Be ready to catch residual fuel seepage. Cover open lines temporarily with plastic caps or bags. STEP 4: Support Fuel Tank & Remove Straps. Position your floor jack securely under the center of the fuel tank with a large, sturdy block of wood to distribute weight and prevent damage. Slightly lift the jack to take the tank's weight. Locate the tank retaining straps (usually one or two per side). Remove the bolts securing the strap ends to the chassis frame using appropriate sockets/breakers. Note washer/spacer placement. Carefully lower the straps away from the tank. STEP 5: Lower Tank and Disconnect Remaining Connections. Carefully lower the jack slowly, controlling the tank descent. Lower it just enough to access the top of the pump module flange securely and comfortably. If you didn't disconnect wires/lines in Step 3: This is the critical point. Located on the top of the tank's neck flange is the pump assembly electrical connector, fuel supply line fitting, and fuel return line fitting. Carefully disconnect these while the tank is partially lowered. Tag them if needed. Also disconnect any filler neck vent lines still attached. STEP 6: Remove Pump Locking Ring. Clean debris away from the large metal locking ring surrounding the pump flange. Position your drip pan beneath. Using a hammer and brass punch/drift, carefully tap the ring counter-clockwise to break it free. Finish turning it off by hand or using a suitable tool. Remove it completely. STEP 7: Remove Old Pump Assembly. Lift the pump assembly straight upward out of the tank opening. Be mindful of the fuel level sender float arm to avoid bending it. Immediately place the assembly into a drip pan. STEP 8: Preparation & Install New Pump. Before installing the new assembly: Compare the new assembly side-by-side with the old one. Ensure the float arm shape is identical, the filter sock is attached securely, and electrical connectors match. Transfer the fuel level sensor from the old assembly to the new one ONLY if necessary and explicitly designed to be interchangeable. Install the new filter sock if required. Thoroughly clean the top flange area of the fuel tank where the new seal will sit. Remove ALL old seal material and dirt. STEP 9: Install New Seal & Pump Assembly. Lubricate the NEW large o-ring tank seal with a thin film of clean engine oil or silicone grease specifically intended for fuel system seals. Do NOT use petroleum jelly, petroleum grease, or anti-seize. Position the seal carefully into its channel on the pump assembly or the tank flange as per instructions. Carefully lower the new pump assembly straight down into the tank, ensuring the float arm moves freely without binding and the assembly base settles fully in the tank bottom. Rotate the assembly as needed until the guide notches or arrows align with the tank opening (refer to pump/housing design). STEP 10: Install NEW Locking Ring. Place the NEW locking ring over the flange. Thread it clockwise by hand until it is snug and finger-tight. Ensure the ring is sitting evenly all around the flange. Using the hammer and brass drift/punch, tap the ring firmly clockwise in 2-3 evenly spaced points, progressing gradually around the ring until it is fully seated and tight against the stops. Do not overtighten or force it. The ring should sit flush and level. STEP 11: Reconnect Electrical and Fuel Lines. Reattach the electrical connector firmly – you should hear/feel it click locked. Carefully and correctly reconnect the main fuel supply line and return line using the disconnect tools to ensure they audibly click and are fully seated. STEP 12: Reinstall Tank and Straps. Carefully raise the tank back into position with the jack, ensuring no wires or hoses are pinched. Reattach the fuel filler neck vent lines securely. Position the tank straps correctly over the tank. Thread the strap bolts by hand initially. Important: Torque the tank strap bolts to the manufacturer's specification using your torque wrench. Over-tightening risks breaking bolts or damaging the tank; under-tightening risks the tank dropping. STEP 13: Reconnect Electrical. Reconnect the pump electrical connection and any related grounds. STEP 14: Fill Tank & Check for Leaks (Outside the Truck!). Remove all tools and drip pans from under the truck. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Add several gallons of fuel. Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position (do not crank yet) – listen near the tank for the pump to prime for several seconds. Inspect minutely around the pump flange perimeter, fuel line connections, and filler hose connections for any sign of fuel leakage. If ANY leak is detected, DO NOT start the engine. Investigate and correct the problem immediately. STEP 15: Restart and Verify Operation. If leak-free, crank the engine. It may take a few extra cranks to build pressure initially. Start the engine. Check for fuel leaks once more with the engine running. Confirm the fuel gauge functions correctly. Take the truck for a cautious initial test drive, paying attention for smooth operation and power without hesitation.

Post-Replacement Checks & Troubleshooting Potential Issues

Successfully installing the new pump is major progress, but verification and addressing potential issues immediately is crucial before regular use. Leak Check Verification: Immediately after the first start, and again after the test drive, perform another meticulous inspection underneath the truck. Focus intensely on the fuel pump flange seal area, all fuel line connections (supply and return), and the filler neck hose connections. Engine Performance: Verify the engine starts normally (significantly faster now than before the pump failed). Idle should be smooth. During your test drive, accelerate firmly from a stop and under moderate load (like going up an incline). Listen carefully and feel for any hesitation, stumbling, bucking, or power loss. Note smoothness throughout the RPM range. Fuel Gauge Accuracy: Add fuel to fill the tank completely and ensure the gauge reads "FULL." Drive the truck normally and observe if the gauge needle moves downward gradually and consistently. Common Problems After Replacement & Solutions:

  1. Engine Cranks But Doesn't Start:

    • Cause: Most likely, residual air trapped in the fuel lines post-installation ("air lock").
    • Solution: Cycle the ignition key "ON" (without cranking) for 2-3 seconds, then off. Repeat this 4-5 times. This activates the pump repeatedly to purge air. Attempt cranking again. If it cranks longer than normal before starting (up to 15-20 seconds sometimes after a pump replacement), that can be typical initially as air purges. If it still fails to start, revisit diagnostics: Confirm electrical connection at the pump harness is fully plugged in and locked. Confirm fuse and relay are good. Double-check fuel line connections for full seating. Verify pump primes when ignition is turned on.
  2. Fuel Leak at Pump Flange:

    • Cause: Primarily due to improper installation of the new seal or locking ring. Causes include pinched/cut o-ring, dirty/gouged tank flange surface preventing proper sealing, improper lubricant used (causing seal swelling/degradation), or the locking ring not being fully seated and tight.
    • Solution: This is a critical issue requiring immediate fix. The tank MUST be lowered again, the locking ring and assembly removed, and the cause identified and rectified. Inspect the seal for damage. Thoroughly reclean the tank flange mating surface. Install a brand new seal, lubricated correctly, and reinstall the assembly with the new locking ring, ensuring it's fully seated and tight. Never just "tighten" the ring further without inspection.
  3. Loss of Power / Engine Sputtering Under Load:

    • Cause: Several potential culprits. A kinked or damaged fuel line, particularly in the flexible section near the pump connection. A loose fuel line connection allowing air infiltration. A clogged or defective fuel filter sock on the new pump (less likely, but possible). Incorrect fuel pressure due to faulty new pump (rare on quality brands, but possible). Severe fuel filter restriction (if equipped externally, not the sock). Air entering somewhere in the suction line within the tank after assembly installation.
    • Solution: Recheck all fuel line routing near the tank ensuring no kinks, twists, or contact with sharp edges. Double-check the security of all fuel line connection points. Inspect the fuel filter sock visually for damage during installation (difficult without removal, but try priming while looking). If possible, perform a fuel pressure test while the symptom occurs under simulated load. If none is found, the pump assembly may need reinspection.
  4. Erratic or Inaccurate Fuel Gauge Reading:

    • Cause: Fuel level sending unit on the new assembly might be defective. Float arm may be bent or binding against the tank wall. Harness connection issue at the pump or the Body Control Module (BCM). Incorrect replacement unit installed. Sending unit not transferred correctly if applicable.
    • Solution: Remove the fuel pump harness connector. Check for specific pins related to the fuel level sender signal (often one or two wires separate from the power/ground for the pump motor). With the key on, check resistance across the sender wires as you manually move the float arm through its range – resistance should change smoothly. Consult wiring diagrams for your year. Visually inspect float arm freedom of movement after installation. Ensure the correct part number was installed. Double-check any sending unit transfer was done perfectly.
  5. Fuel Pump Does Not Prime (No Sound at Key "ON"):

    • Cause: Loss of power or ground to the new pump module. Blown fuse (possibly immediately upon first priming attempt due to a short). Faulty relay. Harness connector not fully seated or damaged wire/terminal. Bad connection at the inertia switch. Faulty pump.
    • Solution: Verify battery terminal connections are secure. Recheck fuse condition. Confirm relay operation (swap test). Ensure electrical connector at tank is fully plugged in and clicked locked. Locate the fuel pump inertia safety switch (usually located on passenger side kick panel or under dash near firewall). Confirm the button is reset fully down. Check for power directly at the pump connector using a multimeter during ignition "ON". No power/ground requires tracing the circuit back through fuse, relay, and inertia switch. Power/Ground present likely indicates a defective new pump.

Realistic Expectations: Time Commitment and Cost

Be prepared for the scope of this repair. For Experienced DIYers: Budget a minimum of 6 hours, with 8-12 hours being a more realistic timeframe, especially considering rusted bolts, stubborn fuel lines, diagnostic time, and unforeseen difficulties. For Professionals: A competent shop typically quotes 4-8 hours labor depending on the specific year and tank configuration. Cost Components: Parts: Pricing varies widely. A quality aftermarket complete assembly typically ranges from 400. Premium Tier 1 brands or OEM (Motorcraft) assemblies can range from 900+, especially for complex diesel units or dual-pump systems. Remember the cost of essential new seals/gasket kits (30) and a new locking ring (40). Labor (Shop): Based on shop rates (often 150+ per hour), expect labor costs alone for fuel pump replacement to fall between 1,200 or more. Taxes & Shop Fees: Additional charges are standard. Total Shop Bill: A professional fuel pump replacement on an F250 commonly costs between 1,800+ (parts & labor combined), with higher-end figures reflecting OEM parts or complex diesel repairs. While DIY saves significant labor costs, the required tools, significant time investment, and physical effort on a large truck must be carefully considered against paying a professional. If your truck is a daily driver essential for work, the downtime risk during a DIY project could be a major factor favoring professional repair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on F250 Fuel Pump Replacement

  • Q: What causes Ford F250 fuel pumps to fail?

    • A: Common causes include continuous low fuel level operation (fuel lubricates/cools the pump motor), internal motor or brush wear, clogged filter sock causing excessive pump strain, electrical issues (low voltage, short circuits), and corrosion of pump components or wiring due to moisture or salt exposure.
  • Q: Can I change my F250 fuel pump myself?

    • A: Yes, but only if you possess significant DIY mechanical aptitude, the necessary tools (especially strong jack/stands), ample time, patience, and a rigorous commitment to safety procedures. The requirement to lower the heavy fuel tank (especially when even partially full) adds substantial complexity and physical risk compared to many other repairs. Mistakes with fuel systems can have severe consequences. If unsure at all, hire a professional technician.
  • Q: Is there an access panel for the F250 fuel pump?

    • A: Most Ford F250 Super Duty trucks (including 2005-present generations) do not have a factory access panel in the truck bed floor. Some newer F-150s and other models might, but the F250 generally requires fuel tank lowering. Some owners with older trucks or permanent utility beds choose to cut their own access panel, but this is an involved modification requiring care to avoid frame members or crossmembers and seal against water intrusion.
  • Q: Do I need to replace the entire fuel pump assembly or just the pump motor?

    • A: Generally, replacing the entire sender assembly is highly recommended. Given the labor intensity of accessing the pump within the tank, replacing the fuel filter sock, fuel level sending unit, seal, and the entire housing along with the pump itself provides long-term reliability and avoids potential near-future replacements of other worn components. Installing a new pump motor into a worn strainer basket or faulty sending unit defeats the purpose.
  • Q: How long should a new Ford F250 fuel pump last?

    • A: With quality parts (OEM or Tier 1 aftermarket) and proper operation (keeping tank reasonably full), expect 7-12 years or 100,000+ miles under average usage. Avoid constantly running the tank low.
  • Q: How much fuel should be in the tank before replacement?

    • A: The less, the better. Ideally, under 1/4 tank. A completely empty tank is best for weight and minimizing spillage, but achieving absolute empty is difficult. Lowering a full or even half-full tank on an F250 is extremely hazardous due to weight and liquid movement.
  • Q: Should I replace anything else while the tank is down?

    • A: It's a prime opportunity. Inspect the condition of the fuel tank straps for severe corrosion. Visually inspect all fuel lines near the tank for corrosion, abrasion, or damage. If equipped with a rigid rear brake line running over the tank shield/skid plate, check its condition. Consider replacing external frame-mounted fuel filters simultaneously if due. Replacing any visibly damaged or brittle vapor/vent hoses connected to the tank or filler neck is also prudent.
  • Q: Why is using a torque wrench on the tank strap bolts so important?

    • A: Tank strap bolts are critical. Over-tightening can stretch, weaken, or break the bolt prematurely. Under-tightening risks the bolt gradually loosening due to vibration, leading the tank strap to loosen entirely, potentially causing the tank to drop suddenly while driving – a catastrophic event. Using a torque wrench applies exactly the right tension as specified by Ford's engineers.
  • Q: Can a bad fuel pump relay mimic a bad pump?

    • A: Absolutely yes. Symptoms of no prime, no start due to lack of fuel pressure caused by a dead fuel pump relay are identical to a failed pump. This is why verifying voltage at the pump connector during ignition "ON" or cranking is a crucial diagnostic step before condemning the pump itself.
  • Q: What’s the purpose of the fuel pump inertia switch?

    • A: This safety device cuts power to the fuel pump in the event of a significant impact/collision. It prevents fuel pumping after an accident. It can sometimes trip inadvertently (e.g., hitting a large pothole extremely hard) and needs to be reset manually (by pressing a button) to restore pump power. Always check its status if you suddenly lose pump operation after an impact.

The Bottom Line

Tackling the Ford F250 fuel pump replacement is a major undertaking, demanding respect for the complexities of the fuel system and its inherent hazards. Confirm the failure through proper diagnosis. Select the best quality pump assembly you can justify. Prepare meticulously with safety gear and tools. Follow the procedure step-by-step, carefully documenting wire connections and fuel lines during disassembly. Be exceptionally vigilant about cleaning, installing new seals correctly, preventing fuel line kinks, ensuring electrical connection integrity, and achieving secure, proper torque on all fasteners. Address any post-installation issues promptly. By approaching this repair with discipline, patience, and an unwavering commitment to safety, you can restore your Ford Super Duty's vital fuel delivery system reliably. If the scale of this job seems daunting, seeking professional assistance is the wisest and safest decision for your F250.