FORD 2013 F-550 v.1 - Manual (Page 259)

• Your vehicle’s brake system and the trailer brake system work
independently of each other. Changing the GAIN setting on the TBC
does not affect the operation of your vehicle’s brakes whether a
trailer is attached or not.
• When the vehicle is turned off, the TBC output is disabled and the
display and module are shut down. The TBC module and display turn
on when the ignition is turned from the off position to the on position.
• The TBC is only a factory-installed or dealer-installed item. Ford is not
responsible for warranty or performance of the TBC due to misuse or
customer installation.
Trailer Lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. Contact
your authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions
and equipment for hooking up the lamps.
Using a Step Bumper (If Equipped)
The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and only requires a
ball with a one inch (25.4 millimeter) shank diameter. The bumper has a
5000 pound (2268 kilogram) trailer weight and 500 pound (227
kilogram) tongue weight capacity.
If it is necessary to relocate the trailer hitch ball position, a
frame-mounted trailer hitch must be installed.
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing up to get the feel of the
vehicle-trailer combination before starting on a trip. When turning, make
wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.
When Towing a Trailer
• Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles
(800 kilometers) and do not make full-throttle starts.
• Check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts
thoroughly after you have traveled 50 miles (80 kilometers).
• Place the gearshift lever in position P to aid in engine and
transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot weather while
stopped in traffic.
• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may turn off
automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.
258 Towing
2013 F-250/350/450/550 (f23)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA (fus)