Safety chains, Trailer brakes, Trailer lamps – FORD 2010 Escape Hybrid v.1 User Manual

Page 206: Driving while you tow, Tires, wheels and loading

Advertising
background image

Safety chains

Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to hook retainers on the
vehicle. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the chains under the
trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.

If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency
gives to you.

Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.

Trailer brakes

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

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.

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

Trailer lamps

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. Do not
connect trailer lamps directly to your vehicle’s tail lamps. This can cause
damage to your vehicle’s electrical system. 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:
• To ensure proper “break-in” of powertrain components, do not trailer

tow during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of a new vehicle.

• To ensure proper “break-in” of powertrain components during the first

500 miles (800 km) of trailer towing, drive no faster than 70 mph
(113 km/h) with no full throttle starts.

• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off

automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.

Tires, Wheels and Loading

206

2010 Escape Hybrid (ehv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA
(fus)

Advertising