Trailer brakes, Trailer lamps, Before towing a trailer – FORD 2013 Edge v.2 User Manual

Page 243: When towing a trailer, Towing 243

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To connect the safety chains, cross them under the trailer tongue and
allow enough slack for turning tight corners. Do not allow the chains to
drag on the ground.

Trailer Brakes

WARNING: Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system
directly to your vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have

enough braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly
increase.

Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are
safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer’s
specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.

The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at
the GVWR not GCWR.

Separate functioning brake systems are required for safe control
of towed vehicles and trailers weighing more than 1500 pounds
(680 kilograms) when loaded.

Trailer Lamps

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. Contact
your authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions
and equipment for hooking up the lamps.

Before Towing a Trailer

Practice turning, stopping and backing-up to get the feel of the
vehicle-trailer combination before starting on a trip. When turning, make
wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.

When Towing a Trailer
• Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles

(800 kilometers).

• Do not make full-throttle starts.

• Check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts

thoroughly after you have traveled 50 miles (80 kilometers).

• When stopped in congested or heavy traffic during hot weather, place

gearshift in P (Park) to aid engine and transmission cooling and to
help A/C performance.

Towing

243

2013 Edge (edg)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing
USA
(fus)

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