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Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your
vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough
braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.
The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the
GVWR not GCWR.
Trailer lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure your
trailer lamps conform to local and Federal regulations. See your dealer or
trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking
up trailer lamps.
Using a step bumper (if equipped)
The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and only requires a
ball with a 25.4 mm (one inch) shank diameter. The bumper has a 2,270
kg (5,000 lb.) trailer weight and 227 kg (500 lb.) tongue weight capacity.
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:
• 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.
• If your vehicle is equipped with a 4–speed automatic
transmission: To eliminate excessive transmission shifting, use a
lower gear. This will also assist in transmission cooling. (For additional
information, refer to the Understanding the positions of the 4–speed
automatic transmission section in this chapter.
• If your vehicle is equipped with a 5–speed automatic
transmission: To eliminate excessive transmission shifting, activate
the Tow/Haul feature. This will also assist in transmission cooling. (For
additional information, refer to the Understanding the positions of
the 5–speed automatic transmission section in this 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 guide for
more information.
2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Driving
168