FORD 2005 F-550 v.1 - Manual (Page 168)

Maximum Trailer/Hitch Limits
Trailer/Hitch
Type F-250/F-350
Single Rear
Wheel (SRW) F-350 Dual
Rear Wheel
(DRW) F-450/F-550
Conventional 12500 (5670) 12500 (5670) 16000 (7257)
5th
Wheel/Goose-
neck See manufacturer’s recommendations
Towing trailers beyond the maximum tongue weight exceeds the
limit of the towing system and could result in vehicle structural
damage, loss of vehicle control and personal injury.
Load equalizing 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
” (13 mm) of the reference point.
After proper adjustment, the rear bumper should be no higher than in
Step 2.
Note: Adjusting an equalizing hitch so the rear bumper of the vehicle is
higher than it was unloaded will defeat the function of the load
equalizing hitch and may cause unpredictable handling.
Safety chains
Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of the vehicle hitch. 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.
REVIEW COPY
2005 F250/350/450/550 (f23), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002),
Market: USA_English (fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
168