Trailer towing, Tires, wheels and loading – FORD 2012 Taurus v.1 User Manual

Page 230

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calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (12 x 45 kg) = 635 - 198 -
540 = -103 kg. You will need to reduce the load weight by at least
240 lb. (104 kg). If you remove 3-100 lb. (45 kg) cement bags, then
the load calculation would be:

1,400 - (2 x 220) - (9 x 100) = 1,400 - 440 - 900 = 60 lb. Now you
have the load capacity to transport the cement and your friend home.
In metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (9 x
45 kg) = 635 - 198 - 405 = 32 kg.

The above calculations also assume that the loads are positioned in your
vehicle in a manner that does not overload the Front or the Rear Gross
Axle Weight Rating specified for your vehicle on the Safety Compliance
Certification Label found on the edge of the driver’s door.

TRAILER TOWING

Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety and to
maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment
while towing.

Your vehicle is capable of towing a trailer up to 1,000 lb (454 kg) gross
trailer weight with a maximum tongue load of 100 lb (45 kg). Do not
tow
with the Taurus SHO; it is not rated to tow a trailer.

Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing:
• Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least

500 miles (800 km).

• Consult your local motor vehicle laws for towing a trailer.
• Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the

proper installation and adjustment specifications.

• Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to Preparing to

tow in this chapter.

• Stay within your vehicle’s load limits.
• Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer to Driving

while you tow in this chapter.

• Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to

Special operating conditions in your scheduled maintenance.

For load specification terms found on the label and instructions on
calculating your vehicle’s load, refer to Vehicle loading - with and
without a trailer
in this chapter. Remember to figure in the tongue load
of your loaded vehicle when figuring the total weight.

Tires, Wheels and Loading

230

2012 Taurus
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA
(fus)

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