Driving while you tow, Servicing after towing, Trailer towing tips – FORD 2007 F-150 v.2 User Manual

Page 232: Tires, wheels and loading

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If it is necessary to relocate the trailer hitch ball position, a
frame-mounted trailer hitch must be installed.

Driving while you tow

When towing a trailer:
• Keep your speed no faster than 70 mph (112 km/h) during the first

500 miles (800 km) of towing a trailer, 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.

• Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer.
• To eliminate excessive shifting, use a lower gear. This will also assist

in transmission cooling. (For additional information, refer to
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 4–speed automatic
transmission
in the Driving chapter.

• Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
• Do not exceed the GCWR rating or transmission damage may occur.
Servicing after towing

If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle will require more
frequent service intervals. Refer to your scheduled maintenance
information
for more information.

Trailer towing tips
• Practice turning, stopping and backing up before starting on a trip to

get the feel of the vehicle trailer combination. When turning, make
wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.

• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached.
• The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer

weight.

• If you will be towing a trailer frequently in hot weather, hilly

conditions, at GCWR, or any combination of these factors, consider
refilling your rear axle with synthetic gear lube if not already so
equipped. Refer to the Maintenance and specifications chapter for
the lubricant specification. Remember that regardless of the rear axle
lube used, do not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles (800 km) of a
new vehicle, and that the first 500 miles (800 km) of towing be done
at no faster than 70 mph (112 km/h) with no full throttle starts.

• After you have traveled 50 miles (80 km), thoroughly check your

hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.

2007 F-150 (f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA
(fus)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

232

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