Tires, wheels and loading – FORD 2009 F-150 v.3 User Manual

Page 259

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3. GAIN setting display: Shows the current GAIN setting. This will
illuminate when a trailer is connected, flash if the trailer becomes
disconnected, or remain off if no trailer is connected.

4. +/– (GAIN adjustment buttons): Pressing these buttons will adjust
the TBC’s power output to the trailer brakes (in 0.5 increments). The
GAIN setting can be increased to a maximum of 10.0 or decreased to a
minimum of 0 (no trailer braking). Pressing and holding a button will
raise or lower the setting continuously. Continued pressing of a gain
button for five seconds after reaching a limit will reset the gain to the
previous setting.

5. Manual control lever: Slide the control lever to the left to activate
power to the trailer’s electric brakes independent of the tow vehicle’s
brakes (see Procedure for adjusting GAIN section following for
instructions on proper use of this feature). If the manual control is
activated while the brake is also applied, the greater of the two inputs
determines the power sent to the trailer brakes.
Stop Lamps: Activating the TBC manual control lever will illuminate

both the trailer brake lamps and the tow vehicle brake lamps except
the Center High-Mount Stop Lamp (presuming proper trailer electrical
connection). Pressing the vehicle brake pedal will also illuminate both
trailer and vehicle brake lamps.

GAIN:

The GAIN setting is used to set the TBC for the specific towing
condition and should be changed as towing conditions change. Changes
to towing conditions include trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions
and weather.

The GAIN should be set to provide the maximum trailer braking
assistance while ensuring the trailer wheels do not lock when braking.
Locked trailer wheels may lead to trailer instability.

Procedure for adjusting GAIN:

Note: This should only be performed in a traffic free environment at
speeds of approximately 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h).

1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working condition,
functioning normally, and properly adjusted. See your trailer dealer if
necessary.

2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical connections according to
the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.

3. When a trailer with electric brakes is plugged in, the trailer connection
indicator will illuminate blue on the TBC and the GAIN setting display
will illuminate.

2009 F-150 (f12)
Owners Guide (own2002), 3rd Printing
USA
(fus)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

259

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