Trailer Towing - Ford F-150 Owner's Manual

Tires, Wheels and Loading

TRAILER TOWING

Your vehicle may tow a class I, II, III or IV trailer provided the maximum
trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listed
for your engine and rear axle ratio on the following charts.
When driving with a trailer or payload, a slight takeoff vibration or
shudder may be present due to the increased payload weight. Additional
information regarding proper trailer loading and setting your vehicle up
for towing is noted under Vehicle Loading – With and Without a
Trailer in this chapter and in the RV & Trailer Towing Guide, available
at your authorized dealer.
If your vehicle is not equipped with a heavy-duty trailer towing package,
the maximum weight your vehicle can tow is limited to 5,000 lb
(2,268 kg).
Note: Do not exceed trailer weight of 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) when towing
with bumper only.
Exceeding the maximum GCWR could result in extensive damage
to your vehicle and personal injury.
Your vehicle's load capacity is designated by weight, not by volume, so
you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading a vehicle.
Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle's engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these
components carefully periodically during, and after any towing operation.
Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing:
• Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least
1,000 miles (1,600 km).
• Consult your local motor vehicle laws for towing a trailer.
• Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the
proper installation and adjustment specifications.
• Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to Preparing to
tow in this chapter.
• Stay within your vehicle's load limits.
• 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
Special operating conditions in your scheduled maintenance.
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2011 F-150 (f12)
Owners Guide, 3rd Printing
USA (fus)