Ford F-150 2010 Supplement Manual page 16

Driving
Soft sand and dunes present a very unique driving challenge. Before
going on such a drive, some research is advised regarding proven
techniques and pitfalls inherent in driving in deep sand. Some general
points to consider:
• It is very difficult and in many cases impossible to navigate deep sand
with tire pressures which are appropriate for on-road driving. If you
decide to "air down" your tires, be advised that the tire pressure
monitoring light will illuminate. The tires must be returned to normal
recommended tire pressures before driving on pavement or hard
surfaces.
• Lower tire pressures are more likely to cause a debeading of the tire
during cornering. Avoid sharp or abrupt turns when you have
extremely low tire pressures.
• To help prevent becoming stuck in deep sand, avoid spinning the tires
or making abrupt maneuvers. Proceed in a controlled manner while
maintaining vehicle momentum.
• Avoid stopping or parking on inclines as this makes it more difficult to
resume driving.
Driving in deep snow
• Maintain vehicle momentum.
• Apply the throttle very gently to avoid spinning the tires. Spinning the
tires will potentially dig the vehicle deeper into the snow.
• Drive in a controlled manner, avoiding aggressive steering wheel
movements, and keep braking to a minimum.
• Extremely deep snow may cause the vehicle to high center causing
the vehicle to become stuck. Test the depth of the snow before trying
to drive through it.
Crossing obstacles
• Review the path ahead before attempting to cross any obstacle. It is
best if the obstacle is reviewed from outside the vehicle so that there
is a good understanding of terrain condition both in, front of, and
behind the obstacle.
• Approach obstacles slowly and slowly inch the vehicle over.
• If a large obstacle such as a rock cannot be avoided, choose a path
that places the rock directly under the tire rather than the
undercarriage of the vehicle. This will help prevent damage to the
vehicle.
• Ditches and washouts should be crossed at a 45 degree angle, allowing
each wheel to independently cross the obstacle.
16
2010 F-150 (f12)
Supplement, 1st Printing
USA (fus)