Knowing whether a Ford F-150 bumper can fit on a F-250 or F-350 can make all the difference in upgrading a missing or damaged bumper with a budget-friendly alternative. While these various models all look very similar, there are some key differences in their body styles that will determine whether a bumper from a Ford F-150 will fit on a Ford F-250 or a Ford F-350.
Generally, a Ford F-150 bumper will fit most Ford F-250 and select Ford F-350 models and years except for the super duty models. However, some will fit easier than others depending on the mount or bracket installed on your specific Ford vehicle. It is possible that you will have to perform slight modifications for your Ford F-150 bumper to fit.
In this article, we will explain the differences between these Ford models and their super duty alternatives. Afterward, we will take you step-by-step through the process of removing your Ford-250 or Ford-350’s bumper and replacing it with a new one.
Ford F-150 Vs. F-250 and F-350 Sizes
If you’re intent on installing a decent Ford F-150 on your current Ford F-250 or F-350 truck, then the first thing you’ll want to look at are their sizes.
Comparatively, the Ford F-150 is the smallest of the three models with a maximum overall length of 250.5 inches for the largest model versus the F-250’s maximum overall length of 266.3 inches and the F-350’s maximum length of 266.3 inches.
Because of this, it is generally much easier to equip a Ford F-250 bumper on a Ford F-350 and vice versa rather than using a Ford F-150’s bumper (source). However, each of these models come in a range of sizes that make it possible for you to potentially use a Ford F-150 bumper on the newer models if their dimensions allow it.
Standard Vs. Super Duty Ford Models
Another important aspect of your Ford F-250 and F-350 vehicle you’ll want to be aware of is whether it is considered a “super duty” model, as this will also dictate whether a Ford F-150 bumper is compatible.
The “Super Duty” models for both Ford F-250 and F-350 are heavy duty trucks equipped with features more suitable to highly demanding tasks, such as towing, and challenging terrain, such as off-road conditions.
This specific design focus means that these “Super Duty” models generally have more powerful engines, higher gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and wider dimensions. This includes the rear of the cab and the bumper, which is why the light-weight Ford F-150’s bumpers rarely fit.
Of course, this brings up a separate condition of whether you are swapping out your Ford vehicle’s front or rear bumper, as some might be easier to swap out with your Ford F-150 parts than others.
While the standard Ford F-250 and F-350 models tend to be more compatible with F-150 bumpers, some “Super Duty” models might be compatible depending on the year. For example, the 2020 Ford F-150 and the F-250 Super Duty are dimensionally the same (source), so you should be able to swap their bumpers.
Here’s a video showing how to remove a factory F250 bumper, with more info below:
How to Replace Ford F-250 and F-350 Bumper
So, the stars have aligned, and you now have a Ford F-150 bumper that is compatible with your Ford F-250 or Ford F-350 vehicle. The only thing that’s left to do is to install your new bumper, and here’s how.
The process for removing and installing a front or rear bumper from a Ford F-150 to a Ford F-250 or 350 might vary slightly depending on your vehicle’s model and year, but usually this can be done easily by removing various bolts, disconnecting all electrical elements and towing accessories, and then installing the new bumper and replacing all components in reverse order.
For a more in-depth guide, follow the steps listed below for replacing the front and rear bumpers on Ford F-250 and F-350.
Replacing the Rear Bumper
To remove the rear bumper and install a Ford F-150 replacement, follow all steps listed below.
This guide will work for both standard and “Super Duty” models.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal on both batteries for safety.
- Unplug any harnesses attached to your bumper and trunk (ex. trailer plug harness, license plate plug harness). If your truck has sensors, you’ll need to unplug these as well.
- Remove the two bolts connecting your truck’s frame bracket to the bumper. These are found underneath and closest to the exterior side (not the interior).
- Repeat this process on the other side while supporting the bumper (it will release after the bolts are removed).
- Remove the 13mm bolts found on either side of the hitch.
- Remove the bumper
- Using your key, remove the spare tire axis (if applicable) from your old bumper
- Using a screwdriver, remove your trailer plug from your old bumper
- Using a pry tool, remove the wiring harness from your old bumper
- Unplug the license plate plugs from your old bumper
- Install all components removed during steps 7-10 onto your new Ford F-150 bumper.
- Remove the two 24mm bolts from the top frame bracket (will require breaker bar).
- Install your Ford F-150 bumper and any new brackets by performing steps 12 and 1-5 in reverse.
Now, the process should be complete!
Replacing the Front Bumper
To remove the front bumper and install a Ford F-150 replacement, follow all steps listed below.
This guide will work for both standard and “Super Duty” models.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal on both batteries for safety.
- Remove the wiring harness if applicable (for vehicles with sensor and/or fog lights on their bumper).
- Remove the two 15mm bolts located underneath the body mount on the passenger side.
- Repeat the previous step on the other side.
- Remove the four 18mm bolts surrounding the front tow hook.
- Repeat the previous step on the other side while supporting the bumper (it will release after the bolts are removed).
- Remove the front bumper.
- Remove the four 18mm bolts holding the tow hook bracket onto the frame.
- Repeat the previous step on the other side.
- Remove the four 18mm nuts holding the bottom frame bracket in place.
- Repeat the previous step on the other side.
- Install your Ford F-150 bumper and any new brackets by performing the steps of this guide in reverse order.
At this point, you should be finished!
Final Thoughts
While there are exceptions, it is safe to assume that most Ford F-150 front and rear bumpers will fit on Ford F-250 and F350 models as long as you have confirmed they share the same dimensions beforehand.
If they don’t, you could potentially make the switch anyways using the right brackets or other troubleshoots, but it might be best to find a replacement of the same model instead.