Ford 1998 Expedition Automobile User Manual


 
TRAILER TOWING
Trailer towing with your vehicle may
require the use of a trailer tow
option package.
Trailer towing puts additional loads
on your vehicle’s engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires, and
suspension. For your safety and to
maximize vehicle performance, be
sure to use the proper equipment
while towing.
Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing procedure:
Stay within your vehicle’s load limits. If exceeded, cargo should be
removed from the trailer and/or the vehicle until all weights are within
specified limits.
Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to Preparing to
tow in this chapter.
Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer to Driving
while you tow in this chapter.
Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to the
severe duty schedule in the “Service Guide”.
Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 800 km
(500 miles).
Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the
proper installation and adjustment specifications.
If your vehicle is equipped with the optional heavy duty trailer tow
wiring, it is pre-wired for trailer towing. An electrical connector is
provided under the instrument panel for installing a customer-supplied
electric brake controller. Another electrical connector is provided at the
hitch. This connector provides power to the trailer for taillamps, stop
and turn lamps, back up lamps, battery charge, electric brakes (when a
customer provided controller is installed) and ground. The kit included
with your vehicle provides you with adaptors to attach the brake
controller and convert the hitch connector for Class I trailer usage.
Driving
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