FORD 2011 F-550 v.2 - Manual (Page 250)

Weight-distributing hitch
When hooking-up a trailer using a weight-distributing hitch, always use
the following procedure:
1. Park the vehicle (without the trailer) on a level surface.
2. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the
fender, this is H1.
3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight distributing bars
connected.
4. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the
fender a second time, this is H2.
5. Install and adjust the tension in the weight distributing bars so that
the height of the front fender is approximately halfway between H1 and
H2.
6. Check that the trailer is level. If not level, adjust the ball height
accordingly and repeat Steps 3–6.
WARNING: Do not adjust a weight-distributing hitch to any
position where the rear bumper of the vehicle is higher than it
was before attaching the trailer. Doing so will defeat the function of
the weight-distributing hitch, which may cause unpredictable handling,
and could result in serious personal injury.
Fifth-wheel trailer hitch (if equipped)
To find the maximum trailer weight allowed for your vehicle, consult
your authorized dealer (or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided
by your authorized dealer).
Fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing
Your vehicle may be equipped with a fifth-wheel prep package. This
package enables your vehicle to accept certain fifth-wheel trailer hitches
and gooseneck ball hitches. The fifth-wheel trailer hitch is attached to
the four mounting pads in the pickup bed; optional 7–pin connector
provided in the bed as well. Alternatively, if a gooseneck ball hitch is
used, the ball is attached to the tube in the center of the bed.
WARNING: The mounting pads in the bed are specifically
designed for certain fifth-wheel trailer hitches and gooseneck
ball hitches. Do not use these mounting pads for other purposes. Doing
so could result in vehicle structural damage, loss of vehicle control,
and personal injury. Contact your authorized dealer to purchase
gooseneck and fifth-wheel hitches that are compatible with your
vehicle.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
250
2011 F-250/350/450/550 (f23)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA (fus)