FORD 2012 F-250 - Manual (Page 255)

Fifth-wheel trailer hitch (if equipped)
To find the maximum trailer weight allowed for your vehicle, consult
your authorized dealer (or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided
by your authorized dealer).
Fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing
Your vehicle may be equipped with a fifth-wheel prep package. This
package enables your vehicle to accept certain fifth-wheel trailer hitches
and gooseneck ball hitches. The fifth-wheel trailer hitch is attached to
the four mounting pads in the pick-up bed; an optional 7–pin connector
provided in the bed as well. Alternatively, if a gooseneck ball hitch is
used, the ball is attached to the tube in the center of the bed.
Shorter pick-up boxes (e.g. 6’ 6” F-250/350) provide less clearance
between the cab and fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailer compared to “long box”
pick-ups. When selecting a trailer and tow vehicle, it’s critical that this
combination provide clearance between the cab and tow vehicle for turns
up to and including 90 degrees. Failure to follow this recommendation
could result in the trailer contacting the cab of the tow vehicle during tight
turns that are typical during low-speed parking and turning maneuvers.
This contact could result in damage to the trailer and tow vehicle.
WARNING: The mounting pads in the bed are specifically
designed for certain fifth-wheel trailer hitches and gooseneck ball
hitches. Do not use these mounting pads for other purposes. Doing so
could result in vehicle structural damage, loss of vehicle control, and
personal injury. Contact your authorized dealer to purchase gooseneck
and fifth-wheel hitches that are compatible with your vehicle.
WARNING: Towing trailers beyond the maximum limit of the
towing system could result in vehicle structural damage, loss of
vehicle control and personal injury.
Fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitch ratings
WARNING: The hitch rating listed on the trailer hitch label is
the maximum possible trailer rating. To find the maximum trailer
weight allowed for your specific vehicle, consult your authorized dealer
or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your authorized
dealer.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
255
2012 F-250/350/450/550 (f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA (fus)