Recreational Towing - Ford F-150 Owner's Manual

Launching or retrieving a boat
Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer
into the water. Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the
trailer is removed from the water.
When backing down a ramp during boat launching or retrieval:
• Do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of
the rear bumper.
• Do not allow waves to break higher than 6 in (15 cm) above the
bottom edge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components:
• Causing internal damage to the components.
• Affecting driveability, emissions and reliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in
water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed
unless a leak is suspected or repair required.

RECREATIONAL TOWING

Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to
prevent exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle. Refer to the Climate
Controls chapter.
Follow these guidelines if you need to tow your vehicle behind another
vehicle, such as a motor home. The guidelines are designed to prevent
damage to your vehicle and its transmission after it is hooked-up to the
tow vehicle or tow dolly.
2WD vehicles cannot be towed with any wheels on the ground as
vehicle or transmission damage may occur. The vehicle must be towed
with all four wheels off the ground (i.e. with a car-hauling trailer).
4WD vehicles can only be towed with all wheels on the ground by
placing the transfer case in its neutral position and engaging the
four-wheel-down towing feature. Perform the steps outlined in the
Four-wheel-down towing section after positioning your vehicle behind
the tow vehicle and properly securing them together
Four-wheel-down towing
1. Turn the ignition to the on position; do not start the engine.
2. Press and hold the brake pedal.
3. Shift the 4WD switch to 2H.
2012 F-150 (f12)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA (fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
283