FORD 2011 F-550 v.3 - Manual (Page 255)

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 trailer lamps.
Driving while you tow
When towing a trailer:
• Consult your local motor vehicle laws for towing a trailer.
• Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles
(800 km) of trailer towing and don’t make full-throttle starts.
• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off
automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.
• Activate the tow/haul feature to eliminate excessive transmission
shifting and assist in transmission cooling. For additional information,
refer to Automatic transmission operation in the Driving chapter.
• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached; anticipate
stops and brake gradually.
Your vehicle may be equipped with a temporary or conventional spare
tire. If the spare tire is different in size (diameter and/or width), tread
type (All-Season or All-Terrain) or is from a different manufacturer other
than the road tires on your vehicle, your spare tire is considered
“temporary”. Consult information on the Tire Label or Safety Compliance
Certification Label for limitations when using.
Trailer towing safety tips
General
• Ensure that the trailer, safety chains and 7–pin electrical connectors
are securely fastened.
• Make sure the truck receiver, draw bar and coupler are properly
connected and adjusted.
• Check rear view and side mirrors for proper visibility especially when
towing a trailer wider than the truck.
• When turning, make wide turns to allow trailer tires to properly clear
any obstacles.
• Operate the vehicle at lower speeds than you would when not towing
a trailer; the likelihood of trailer sway is greater at higher speeds.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
255
2011 F-250/350/450/550 (f23)
Owners Guide, 3rd Printing
USA (fus)