Preparing to tow, Hitches, Weight-distributing hitch – FORD 2010 F-150 v.3 User Manual
Page 262: Tires, wheels and loading
WARNING: Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended
gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could
result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss
of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.
Trailer frontal area considerations:
• Not to exceed towing vehicle frontal area 36 ft
2
(3.4 m
2
) without the
Class IV trailer towing package.
• Not to exceed 45 ft
2
(4.18 m
2
) with the Class IV trailer towing
package for vehicles with 3.15 rear axle ratio only.
• Not to exceed 60 ft
2
(5.52 m
2
) with the Class IV trailer towing
package - excluding vehicles with 3.15 rear axle ratio.
Preparing to tow
Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is
properly attached to your vehicle. Contact your authorized dealer or a
reliable trailer dealer as soon as possible if you require assistance.
Hitches
Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle’s bumper or attach to the
axle. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10–15% of the
total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.
Weight-distributing hitch
When hooking-up a trailer using a load-equalizing hitch, always use the
following procedure:
1. Park the unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and
all doors closed, allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes so that it
can level.
2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers
at the center of the vehicle.
3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and adjust the hitch equalizers so that
the front bumper height is within
1
⁄
2
in. (13 mm) of the reference point.
After proper adjustment, the rear bumper should be no higher than in
Step 2.
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.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
262
2010 F-150 (f12)
Owners Guide, 3rd Printing
USA (fus)