Ford 2011 Explorer Owner's Manual page 265

Tires, Wheels and Loading
Trailer brakes
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are
safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's
specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.
WARNING: 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 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 trailer lamps.
WARNING: Never connect any trailer lighting to the vehicle's
tail lamp circuits, because it may damage the electrical system
resulting in fire. Contact your authorized dealer as soon as possible for
assistance in proper trailer tow wiring installation. Additional electrical
equipment may be required.
Driving while you tow
When towing a trailer:
• Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles
(800 km) of trailer towing and don't make full-throttle starts.
• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off
automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.
• Activate the tow/haul feature or the grade assist feature on your
transmission to eliminate excessive transmission shifting and assist in
transmission cooling. For additional information, refer to Automatic
transmission operation in the Driving chapter.
• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached; anticipate
stops and brake gradually.
264
2011 Explorer (exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA (fus)