2015 Ford F 150 Owners Manual

RV & Trailer Towing Guide Online http://www.fleet.ford.com/towing-guides/

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TRAILER SWAY CONTROL (If Equipped)

WARNING

Turning off trailer sway control increases the risk of loss of vehicle control, serious injury or death. Ford does not recommend disabling this feature except in situations where speed reduction may be detrimental (such as hill climbing), the driver has significant trailer towing experience, and can control trailer sway and maintain safe operation.

Note: This feature does not prevent trailer sway, but reduces it once it begins. Note: This feature cannot stop all trailers from swaying. Note: In some cases, if vehicle speed is too high, the system may activate multiple times, gradually reducing vehicle speed. This feature applies your vehicle brakes at individual wheels and, if necessary, reduces engine power. If the trailer begins to sway, the stability control light flashes and the message TRAILER SWAY REDUCE SPEED appears in the information display. The first thing to do is slow your vehicle down, then pull safely to the side of the road and check for proper tongue load and trailer load distribution. See Load Carrying (page 232).

RECOMMENDED TOWING WEIGHTS Note: Do not exceed a trailer weight of 5,100 lb (2,313 kg) when towing with, or by, bumper only. Note: Do not exceed a trailer weight of 5,100 lb (2,313 kg) if your vehicle is not equipped with a Heavy Duty Trailer Towing Package. Note: Make sure to take into consideration trailer frontal area. Vehicles not equipped with the Trailer Tow Package or the Heavy Duty Payload Package should not exceed 36.6 feet2 (3.4 meters2) trailer frontal area. Vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Package or the Heavy Duty Payload Package should not exceed 60
feet2 (5.6 meters2) trailer frontal area. Note: Exceeding this limitation may significantly reduce the performance of your towing vehicle. Selecting a trailer with a low aerodynamic drag and rounded front design helps optimize performance and fuel economy.

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Your vehicle may tow a trailer provided the maximum trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listed for your vehicle configuration on the following charts.

Note: For high altitude operation, reduce the gross combined weight by 2% per 1,000 ft (305 m) starting at the 1,000 ft (305 m) elevation point. Note: Certain states require electric trailer brakes for trailers over a specified weight. Be sure to check state regulations for this specified weight. The maximum trailer weights listed may be limited to this specified weight, as your vehicle's electrical system may not include the wiring connector needed to use electric trailer brakes.

Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Driveline – 4x21

Engine

Axle ratio

3.55

3.73

3.31

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.55

3.5L TiVCT

Regular cab –

122

2.7L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

Regular cab –

141

3.5L TiVCT

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Maximum GCWR2, 3

9500 lb (4309

kg)4

12000 lb (5443

kg)

12200 lb (5533

kg)

13100 lb (5942

kg)

13000 lb (5897

kg)

13800 lb (6260

kg)

9600 lb (4354

kg)4

Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Super Cab – 145

Towing

Driveline – 4x21

Engine

Axle ratio

3.73

3.31

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.73

3.15

3.55

3.73

3.55

3.73

3.31

2.7L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

3.5L TiVCT

2.7L GTDI

Maximum GCWR2, 3

12100 lb (5488

kg)

12300 lb (5579

kg)

13100 lb (5942

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)5

13900 lb (6305

kg)

14900 lb (6758

kg)

16000 lb (7257

kg)6

15500 lb (7030

kg)

17000 lb (7711

kg)7

17100 lb (7756

kg)6, 7

9900 lb (4491

kg)4

12200 lb (5534

kg)

12500 lb (5670

kg)

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Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Super Cab – 163

Towing

Driveline – 4x21

Engine

Axle ratio

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.15

3.55

3.31

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.73

3.15

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

2.7L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

Maximum GCWR2, 3

13100 lb (5942

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)5

14200 lb (6441

kg)

15200 lb (6895

kg)

15800 lb (7167

kg)

17100 lb (7756

kg)7

12600 lb (5715

kg)

13100 lb (5942

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)5

14300 lb (6486

kg)

15300 lb (6940

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)

15900 lb (7212

kg)

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Driveline – 4x21

Engine

Axle ratio

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.15

3.55

3.31

3.73

3.73

Maximum GCWR2, 3

17100 lb (7756

kg)7

17100 lb (7756

kg)6, 7

12200 lb (5534

kg)

12600 lb (5715

kg)

13100 lb (5942

kg)

13100 lb (5942

kg)5

14200 lb (6441

kg)

15200 lb (6895

kg)

15800 lb (7167

kg)

17000 lb (7711

kg)7

12600 lb (5715

kg)

13100 lb (5942

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)5

Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Crew cab – 145

3.5L TiVCT

2.7L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

Crew cab – 157

2.7L GTDI

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Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Driveline – 4x21

Engine

Axle ratio

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

3.31

3.55

3.73

3.15

3.55

3.73

Maximum GCWR2, 3

14200 lb (6441

kg)

15200 lb (6895

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)6

15900 lb (7212

kg)

17100 lb (7756

kg)7

17100 lb (7756

kg)6, 7

1Do not exceed a trailer weight of 5100 pounds (2313 kilograms) unless the vehicle is equipped with the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow package or the MAX Trailer Tow package. 2Calculated with SAE J2807 method. 3Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Payload Package (unless stated otherwise). 4Medium Duty Trailer Tow package – 5100 pound (2313 kilogram) maximum trailer weight. 52.7L EcoBoost Payload Package. 6Heavy Duty Payload Package. 7MAX Trailer Tow Payload Package.

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Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Regular cab –

122

Regular cab –

141

Towing

Driveline – 4x41

Engine

Axle ratio

3.5L TiVCT

2.7L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L TiVCT

2.7L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

3.73

3.55

3.73

3.31, 3.55

3.73

3.73

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.31, 3.55

3.73

3.73

3.31

Maximum GCWR2, 3

12200 lb (5534

kg)

12500 lb (5670

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)

13200 lb (5987

kg)

14600 lb (6622

kg)

12200 lb (5534

kg)

12500 lb (5670

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)4

14100 lb (6396

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)5

15800 lb (7167

kg)

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Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Driveline – 4x41

Engine

Axle ratio

3.55

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.55

3.5L TiVCT

2.7L GTDI

Super Cab – 145

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

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Maximum GCWR2, 3

15800 lb (7167

kg)

17100 lb (7756

kg)6

17000 lb (7711

kg)5, 6

12200 lb (5534

kg)

12700 lb (5761

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)

13300 lb (6032

kg)4

14300 lb (6486

kg)

14400 lb (6532

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)

16000 lb (7167

kg)

16000 lb (7167

kg)

16900 lb (7665

kg)6

Towing

Driveline – 4x41

Engine

Axle ratio

Maximum GCWR2, 3

14300 lb (6486

kg)

14500 lb (6577

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)5

16200 lb (7348

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)

17100 lb (7756

kg)6

17100 lb (7756

kg)5, 6

12200 lb (5534

kg)

12800 lb (5806

kg)

13300 lb (6033

kg)

13300 lb (6033

kg)4

14300 lb (6486

kg)

3.31

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.31

Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Super Cab – 163

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

3.5L TiVCT

Crew cab – 145

2.7L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

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Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Crew cab – 157

Towing

Driveline – 4x41

Engine

Axle ratio

3.55

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.55

3.31

3.55

3.73

3.73

3.31

3.55

3.5L GTDI

5.0L TiVCT

3.5L GTDI

Maximum GCWR2, 3

14400 lb (6532

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)

16100 lb (7303

kg)

16100 lb (7303

kg)

16900 lb (7666

kg)

14300 lb (6486

kg)

14500 lb (6577

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)

16200 lb (7348

kg)5

16100 lb (7303

kg)

16100 lb (7303

kg)

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Cab – wheel- base (inches)

Driveline – 4x41

Engine

Axle ratio

3.55

3.73

Maximum GCWR2, 3

17100 lb (7756

kg)6

17000 lb (7711

kg)5, 6

1Do not exceed a trailer weight of 5100 pounds (2313 kilograms) unless the vehicle is equipped with the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow package or the MAX Trailer Tow package. 2Calculated with SAE J2807 method. 3Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Payload Package (unless stated otherwise). 42.7L EcoBoost Payload Package. 5Heavy Duty Payload Package. 6MAX Trailer Tow Payload Package.

• Passenger(s) weight. • Payload, cargo and luggage

weight.

• Aftermarket equipment weight. This equals the maximum loaded trailer weight for this combination. Note: The trailer tongue load is considered part of the payload for your vehicle. Reduce the total payload by the final trailer tongue weight. Note: Consult an authorized dealer to determine the maximum trailer weight allowed for your vehicle if you are not sure.

Calculating the Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight for Your Vehicle 1. Start with the gross combined weight rating for your vehicle model and axle ratio. See the previous charts.

2. Subtract all of the following

that apply to your vehicle:

• Vehicle curb weight. • Hitch hardware weight, such as a draw bar, ball, locks or weight distributing hardware.

• Driver weight.

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ESSENTIAL TOWING CHECKS Follow these guidelines for safe towing: • Do not tow a trailer until you drive your

vehicle at least 1000 miles (1600
kilometers).

Trailer Towing Connector

• Consult your local motor vehicle laws

for towing a trailer. See the instructions included with towing accessories for the proper installation and adjustment specifications. Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. See your scheduled maintenance information. If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions the rental agency gives you.

•

•

•

See Load limits in the Load Carrying chapter for load specification terms found on the tire label and Safety Compliance label and instructions on calculating your vehicle's load. Remember to account for the trailer tongue weight as part of your vehicle load when calculating the total vehicle weight.

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When attaching the trailer wiring connector to your vehicle, only use a proper fitting connector that works with the vehicle and trailer functions. Some seven-position connectors may have the SAE J2863 logo, which confirms that it is the proper wiring connector and works correctly with your vehicle.

Color Yellow White Blue Green

Function

Left turn signal and stop lamp Ground (-) Electric brakes Right turn signal and stop lamp

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5.

Install and adjust the tension in the weight-distributing bars so that the height of your vehicle's front wheel opening on the fender is approximately a quarter the way down from H2, toward H1.

6. Check that the trailer is level or slightly nose down toward your vehicle. If not, adjust the ball height accordingly and repeat Steps 2-6.

Once the trailer is level or slightly nose down toward the vehicle: • Lock the bar tension adjuster in place. • Check that the trailer tongue securely

attaches and locks onto the hitch. Install safety chains, lighting, and trailer brake controls as required by law or the trailer manufacturer.

Safety Chains Note: Do not attach safety chains to the bumper. Always connect the safety chains to the frame or hook retainers of your vehicle hitch. To connect the safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for turning tight corners. Do not allow the chains to drag on the ground. Trailer Brakes

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.

Function

Battery (+) Running lights Reverse lights

Color Orange Brown Grey Hitches Do not use a hitch that either clamps onto the bumper or attaches to the axle. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10-15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue. Weight-distributing Hitches

WARNING

•

Do not adjust a weight-distributing hitch to any position where the rear bumper of the vehicle is higher than

it was before attaching the trailer. Doing so will defeat the function of the weight-distributing hitch, which may cause unpredictable handling, and could result in serious personal injury.

When hooking-up a trailer using a weight-distributing hitch, always use the following procedure: 1. Park the loaded vehicle, without the

trailer, on a level surface.

2. Measure the height to the top of your vehicle's front wheel opening on the fender. This is H1.

3. Attach the loaded trailer to your vehicle

without the weight-distributing bars connected.

4. Measure the height to the top of your vehicle's front wheel opening on the fender a second time. This is H2.

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Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if you install them properly and adjust them to the manufacturer's specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and federal regulations. The rating for the tow vehicle's braking system operation is at the gross vehicle weight rating, not the gross combined weight rating. Separate functioning brake systems are required for safe control of towed vehicles and trailers weighing more than 1500 pounds (680 kilograms) when loaded. Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (If Equipped)

WARNING

The Ford trailer brake controller has been verified to be compatible with trailers having electric-actuated

drum brakes (one to four axles) and electric-over-hydraulic brakes. It will not activate hydraulic surge-style trailer brakes. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that the trailer brakes are adjusted appropriately, functioning normally and all electric connections are properly made. Failure to do so may result in loss of vehicle control, crash or serious injury.

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When used properly, the trailer brake controller assists in smooth and effective trailer braking by powering the trailer’s electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes with a proportional output based on the towing vehicle’s brake pressure. The controller user interface consists of the following: A: + and - (Gain adjustment buttons): Pressing these buttons adjusts the controller's power output to the trailer brakes in 0.5 increments. You can increase the gain setting to 10.0 (maximum trailer braking) or decrease it to 0 (no trailer braking). The gain setting displays in the message center. The controller shows gain setting, output bar graph, and trailer connectivity status in the information display. They appear in the information display as follows: •

Trailer Brake Controller Gain (without trailer connected): Shows the current gain setting during a given ignition cycle and when adjusting the gain. This also displays if you use the manual control lever or make gain adjustments with no trailer connected. Trailer Brake Controller Gain Output: Displays when you push your vehicle's brake pedal, or upon use of the manual control. Bar indicators illuminate in the information display to indicate the amount of power going to the trailer brakes relative to the brake pedal or manual control input. One bar indicates the least amount of output; six bars indicate maximum output.

•

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The gain setting sets the trailer brake controller for the specific towing condition. You should change the setting as towing conditions change. Changes to towing conditions include trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions and weather. The gain should be set to provide the maximum trailer braking assistance while making sure the trailer wheels do not lock when using the brakes. Locked trailer wheels may lead to trailer instability. 1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working condition, functioning normally and properly adjusted. See your trailer dealer if necessary.

2. Hook up the trailer and make the

electrical connections according to the trailer manufacturer's instructions.

5.

3. When you plug in a trailer with electric

or electric-over-hydraulic brakes, a message confirming connection appears in the information display. 4. Use the gain adjustment (+ and -) buttons to increase or decrease the gain setting to the desired starting point. A gain setting of 6.0 is a good starting point for heavier loads. In a traffic-free environment, tow the trailer on a dry, level surface at a speed of 20-25 mph (30-40 km/h) and squeeze the manual control lever completely. If the trailer wheels lock up, indicated by squealing tires, reduce the gain setting. If the trailer wheels turn freely, increase the gain setting. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until the gain setting is at a point just below trailer wheel lock-up. If towing a heavier trailer, trailer wheel lock-up may not be attainable even with the maximum gain setting of 10.

6.

•

•

Trailer Connected: Displays when the system senses a correct trailer wiring connection (a trailer with electric trailer brakes) during a given ignition cycle. Trailer Disconnected: Displays, accompanied by a single audible time, when the system senses a trailer connection and then a disconnection, either intentional or unintentional, during a given ignition cycle. It also displays if a truck or trailer-wiring fault occurs causing the trailer to appear disconnected. This message can also display if you use the manual control lever without a trailer connected. After disconnecting the trailer connector, press the brake pedal for approximately five seconds to allow the system to detect and update the trailer status.

B: Manual control lever: Slide the control lever to the left to turn on the trailer's electric brakes independent of the tow vehicle's. See the following Procedure for adjusting gain section for instructions on proper use of this feature. If you use the manual control while the brake is also applied, the greater of the two inputs determines the power sent to the trailer brakes. • Stop lamps: Using the manual control lever illuminates both the trailer brake lamps and your vehicle brake lamps except the center high-mount stop lamp, if you make the proper electrical connection to the trailer. Pressing your vehicle brake pedal also illuminates both trailer and vehicle brake lamps.

Procedure for Adjusting Gain Note: Only perform this procedure in a traffic-free environment at speeds of approximately 20-25 mph (30-40 km/h).

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• Only use the manual control lever for proper adjustment of the gain during trailer setup. Misuse, such as application during trailer sway, could cause instability of trailer or tow vehicle.

• Avoid towing in adverse weather

conditions. The trailer brake controller does not provide anti-lock control of the trailer wheels. Trailer wheels can lock up on slippery surfaces, resulting in reduced stability of trailer and tow vehicle. The trailer brake controller is equipped with a feature that reduces output at vehicle speeds below 11 mph (18 km/h) so trailer and vehicle braking is not jerky or harsh. This feature is only available when applying the brakes using your vehicle's brake pedal, not the controller. The controller interacts with the brake control system and powertrain control system of your vehicle to provide the best performance on different road conditions. Your vehicle's brake system and the trailer brake system work independently of each other. Changing the gain setting on the controller does not affect the operation of your vehicle's brakes whether you attach a trailer or not.

• When you switch the engine off, the controller output is disabled and the display and module shut down. The controller module and display turn on when you switch the ignition on. The trailer brake controller is only a factory-installed or dealer-installed item. Ford is not responsible for warranty or performance of the controller due to misuse or customer installation.

•

•

•

•

Explanation of Information Display Warning Messages Note: An authorized dealer can diagnose the trailer brake controller to determine exactly which trailer fault has occurred. However, your Ford warranty does not cover this diagnosis if the fault is with the trailer. A message indicating a trailer brake module fault may display in response to faults sensed by the trailer brake controller, accompanied by a single tone. If this message appears, contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair. The controller may still function, but performance may be degraded. A message indicating a trailer wiring fault may display when there is a short circuit on the electric brake output wire. If this message displays, accompanied by a single tone, with no trailer connected, the problem is with your vehicle wiring between the trailer brake controller and the 7-pin connector at the bumper. If the message only displays with a trailer connected, the problem is with the trailer wiring. Consult your trailer dealer for assistance. This can be a short to ground (such as a chaffed wire), short to voltage (such as a pulled pin on trailer emergency breakaway battery) or the trailer brakes may be drawing too much current. Points to Remember Note: Do not attempt removal of the trailer brake controller without consulting the Workshop Manual. Damage to the unit may result. • Adjust gain setting before using the

trailer brake controller for the first time. • Adjust gain setting, using the procedure

above, whenever road, weather and trailer or vehicle loading conditions change from when the gain was initially set.

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Trailer Lamps

WARNING

Never connect any trailer lamp wiring to the vehicle's tail lamp wiring; this 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.

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. Using a Step Bumper (If Equipped) The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and only requires a ball with a one-inch (25.4 millimeter) shank diameter. The bumper has a 5000-pound (2268 kilogram) trailer weight and a 500-pound (227 kilogram) tongue weight capacity. If it is necessary to relocate the hitch ball position, you must install a frame-mounted trailer hitch. Before Towing a Trailer Practice turning, stopping and backing up to get the feel of your vehicle-trailer combination before starting on a trip. When turning, make wider turns so the trailer wheels clear curbs and other obstacles. When Towing a Trailer • Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113

km/h) during the first 500 miles (800
kilometers).

• Do not make full-throttle starts.

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• Check your hitch, electrical connections

and trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughly after you have traveled 50 miles (80
kilometers).

•

•

•

• When stopped in congested or heavy traffic during hot weather, place the gearshift in position P to aid engine and transmission cooling and to help A/C performance. Turn off the speed control with heavy loads or in hilly terrain. The speed control may turn off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades. Shift to a lower gear when driving down a long or steep hill. Do not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective. If your transmission is equipped with a Grade Assist or Tow/Haul feature, use this feature when towing. This provides engine braking and helps eliminate excessive transmission shifting for optimum fuel economy and transmission cooling. If your vehicle is equipped with AdvanceTrac with RSC, this system may turn on during typical cornering maneuvers with a heavily loaded trailer. This is normal. Turning the corner at a slower speed while towing may reduce this tendency. If you are towing a trailer frequently in hot weather, hilly conditions, at the gross combined weight rating (or any combination of these factors), consider refilling your rear axle with synthetic gear lubricant (if the axle is not already filled with it). See Capacities and Specifications (page 358).

•

•

• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached. Anticipate stops and brake gradually.

• Avoid parking on a grade. However, if

you must park on a grade:

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1. Turn the steering wheel to point your

vehicle tires away from traffic flow.

2. Set your vehicle parking brake. 3. Place the automatic transmission in

position P.

4. Place wheel chocks in front and back

of the trailer wheels. (Chocks not included with vehicle.)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a temporary or conventional spare tire. A "temporary" spare tire is different in size (diameter or width), tread-type (All-Season or All Terrain) or is from a different manufacturer than the road tires on your vehicle. Consult information on the tire label or Safety Compliance label for limitations when using. Launching or Retrieving a Boat or Personal Watercraft (PWC) Note: Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer into the water. Note: Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after removing the trailer 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 inches (15 centimeters) 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 anytime the rear axle has been submerged in water. Water may have contaminated the rear axle lubricant, which is not normally checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or other axle repair is required. TOWING POINTS

WARNINGS

Using recovery hooks is dangerous and should only be done by a person familiar with proper vehicle recovery safety practices. Improper use of recovery hooks may cause hook failure or separation from the vehicle and could result in serious injury or death.

Always slowly remove the slack from the recovery strap prior to pulling. Failure to do so can introduce

significantly higher loads which can cause the recovery hooks to break off, or the recovery strap to fail which can cause serious injury or death.

Never link two straps together with a clevis pin. These heavy metal objects could become projectiles if

the strap breaks and can cause serious injury or death.

Your vehicle comes equipped with frame-mounted front recovery hooks. These hooks should never have a load applied to them greater than the gross vehicle weight rating of your vehicle. Before using recovery hooks: • Make sure all attaching points are

secure and capable of withstanding the applied load.

• Never use chains, cables or tow straps

with metal hook ends.

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TRANSPORTING THE VEHICLE

• Only use recovery straps that have a minimum breaking strength two to three times the gross vehicle weight of the stuck vehicle.

• Make sure the recovery strap is in good condition and free of visible cuts, tears or damage.

• Use a damper device such as a tarp,

heavy blanket or piece of carpet draped over the recovery strap to help absorb the energy in the event the strap breaks.

• Make sure the stuck vehicle is not

loaded heavier than its gross vehicle weight rating specified on the certification label.

•

• Always align the tow vehicle and stuck

vehicle in a straight line (within 10
degrees). Keep bystanders to the sides of the vehicle, at a distance of at least twice the length of the recovery strap. This helps avoid injury from the hazard of a recovery hook or strap breaking, or a vehicle lurching into their path.

If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towing service or, if you are a member of a roadside assistance program, your roadside assistance service provider. We recommend the use of a wheel lift and dollies or flatbed equipment to tow your vehicle. Do not tow with a slingbelt. Ford Motor Company has not approved a slingbelt towing procedure. Vehicle damage may occur if towed incorrectly, or by any other means. Ford Motor Company produces a towing manual for all authorized tow truck operators. Have your tow truck operator refer to this manual for proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle.

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E143886Towing

Follow these guidelines if you have a need for recreational towing, such as towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. We designed these guidelines to prevent damage to your transmission. Two-wheel Drive Vehicles You cannot tow a two-wheel drive vehicle with any wheels on the ground as vehicle or transmission damage may occur. You must tow your vehicle with all four wheels off the ground, such as when using a car-hauling trailer. Four-wheel Drive Vehicles You can only tow a four-wheel drive vehicle 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 following section after positioning your vehicle behind the tow vehicle and properly securing them together. Note: Make sure you properly secure your vehicle to the tow vehicle. Four-wheel-down Towing 1. Put the ignition in the on position, but do not start the engine. If your vehicle has an ignition key, turn the key to on. If your vehicle has intelligent access, press the engine START/STOP button once without pressing the brake pedal.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal. 3. Rotate the four-wheel drive switch to

2H.

4. Shift the transmission to position N. 5. Rotate the four-wheel drive switch from 2H to 4L and back to 2H five times within seven seconds.

It is acceptable to have your two-wheel drive vehicle towed with the front wheels on the ground (without dollies) and the rear wheels off the ground. We recommend towing a four-wheel drive vehicle with all wheels off the ground, such as using a wheel lift and dollies or flatbed equipment. TOWING THE VEHICLE ON FOUR WHEELS

WARNING

If your vehicle has a steering wheel lock make sure the ignition is in the accessory or on position when being

towed. Emergency Towing If your vehicle becomes inoperable (without access to wheel dollies, car-hauling trailer, or flatbed transport vehicle), it can be flat-towed (all wheels on the ground, regardless of the powertrain and transmission configuration) under the following conditions: •

Your vehicle is facing forward for towing in a forward direction.

• Place the transmission in position N. If you cannot move the transmission into N, you may need to override it. See Transmission (page 174).

• Maximum speed is 35 mph (56 km/h). • Maximum distance is 50 mi (80 km). Recreational Towing Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to prevent exhaust fumes from entering your vehicle. See Climate Control (page 131).

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WARNINGS

Failing to put the transfer case in its neutral position will damage vehicle components.

Note: You can check four-wheel-down towing status at any time by opening the driver's door or turning the ignition to the accessory or on position and verifying the NEUTRAL TOW ENABLED message displays in the cluster. To exit four-wheel-down towing and return the transfer case to its 2H position: 1. With your vehicle still properly secured

to the tow vehicle, put the ignition in the on position, but do not start the engine. If your vehicle has an ignition key, turn the key to on. If your vehicle has intelligent access, press the engine START/STOP button once without pressing the brake pedal.

2. Press and hold the brake pedal. 3. Shift the transmission out of N and into

any gear.

4. Release the brake pedal. Note: If completed successfully, the instrument cluster displays 4X2, and NEUTRAL TOW DISABLED. Note: If the indicator light and message do not display, you must perform the procedure again from the beginning. Note: You may hear an audible noise as the transfer case shifts out of its neutral position. This is normal. Note: If SHIFT DELAY PULL FORWARD displays in the instrument cluster, transfer case gear tooth blockage is present. See the instructions after this section. 5. Apply the parking brake, and then

disconnect the vehicle from the tow vehicle.

Note: If completed successfully, the information display shows NEUTRAL TOW LEAVE IN N or NEUTRAL TOW ENABLED LEAVE TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL. This indicates that your vehicle is safe to tow with all wheels on the ground. Note: If you do not see the message in the display, you must perform the procedure again from the beginning. Note: You may hear an audible noise as the transfer case shifts into its neutral position. This is normal. 6. Leave the transmission in position N and turn the ignition as far as it will go toward the off position (it will not turn fully off when the transmission is in position N). If your vehicle has an ignition key, you must leave the key in the ignition while towing. To lock and unlock your vehicle, use the keyless entry keypad or extra set of keys. If your vehicle has intelligent access, press the engine START/STOP button once without pressing the brake pedal. You do not need to leave your keys in the vehicle. You can lock and unlock your vehicle as you normally do.

7. Release the brake pedal. WARNINGS

Do not disconnect the battery during recreational towing. Doing so will prevent the transfer case from

shifting properly and may cause the vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in P (Park).

Shifting the transfer case to its neutral position for recreational towing may cause the vehicle to be able to roll even if the transmission is in P (Park). The driver or others could be injured. Make sure the foot brake is depressed and the vehicle is in a secure and safe position while the transfer case is being shifted to its neutral position.

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Towing

6. Release the parking brake, start the engine, and shift the transmission to position D to make sure the transfer case is out of position N. If the transfer case does not successfully shift out of position N, set the parking brake until you can have your vehicle serviced.

7.

Resolving the SHIFT DELAY PULL FORWARD Message If the instrument cluster displays SHIFT DELAY PULL FORWARD perform the following: 1. Press and hold the brake pedal. 2. Put the transmission into position N,

and then start the engine.

3. With the engine running, shift the

transmission to position D and let the vehicle roll forward, up to 3 feet (1
meter). You may hear an audible noise as the transfer case shifts out of its neutral position. This is normal.

4. Make sure the instrument cluster

displays NEUTRAL TOW DISABLED.

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Driving Hints

BREAKING-IN You need to break in new tires for approximately 300 miles (480
kilometers). During this time, your vehicle may exhibit some unusual driving characteristics. Avoid driving too fast during the first 1000
miles (1600 kilometers). Vary your speed frequently and change up through the gears early. Do not labor the engine. Do not tow during the first 1000 miles (1600 kilometers). ECONOMICAL DRIVING Your fuel economy is affected by several things, such as how you drive, the conditions you drive under, and how you maintain your vehicle. You may improve your fuel economy by keeping these things in mind: • Accelerate and slow down in a smooth,

moderate fashion.

• Drive at steady speeds without

stopping.

• Anticipate stops; slowing down may

eliminate the need to stop.

• Combine errands and minimize

stop-and-go driving.

• Close the windows for high-speed

driving.

• Drive at reasonable speeds (traveling at 55 mph [88 km/h] uses 15% less fuel than traveling at 65 mph [105
km/h]). Keep the tires properly inflated and use only the recommended size.

•

• Use the recommended engine oil. • Perform all regularly scheduled

maintenance.

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Avoid these actions; they reduce your fuel economy: •

Sudden accelerations or hard accelerations.

• Revving the engine before turning it off. • Idle for periods longer than one minute. • Warm up your vehicle on cold

mornings.

• Use the air conditioner or front

defroster.

• Use the speed control in hilly terrain. • Rest your foot on the brake pedal while

driving.

• Drive a heavily loaded vehicle or tow a

trailer.

• Carry unnecessary weight

(approximately 1 mpg [0.4 km/L] is lost for every 400 lb [180 kilogram] of weight carried).

• Driving with the wheels out of

alignment.

Conditions • Heavily loading a vehicle or towing a

trailer may reduce fuel economy at any speed.

• Adding certain accessories to your

vehicle (for example bug deflectors, rollbars, light bars, running boards, ski racks or luggage racks) may reduce fuel economy. To maximize the fuel economy, drive with the tonneau cover installed (if equipped).

• Using fuel blended with alcohol may

lower fuel economy. Fuel economy may decrease with lower temperatures during the first 8–10
miles (12–16 kilometers) of driving.

•

•

• Driving on flat terrain offers improved fuel economy as compared to driving on hilly terrain.

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Driving Hints

•

Lightly press the brake pedal to dry the brakes and to check that they work.

• Check that the horn works. • Check that the exterior lights work. •

Turn the steering wheel to check that the steering power assist works.

FLOOR MATS

WARNINGS

Always use floor mats that are designed to fit the foot well of your vehicle. Only use floor mats that

leave the pedal area unobstructed. Only use floor mats that are firmly secured to retention posts so that they cannot slip out of position and interfere with the pedals or impair safe operation of your vehicle in other ways.

Pedals that cannot move freely can cause loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of serious personal

injury.

Always make sure that the floor mats are properly attached to the retention posts in the carpet that are supplied with your vehicle. Floor mats must be properly secured to both retention posts to make sure mats do not shift out of position.

Never place floor mats or any other covering in the vehicle foot well that cannot be properly secured to

prevent them from moving and interfering with the pedals or the ability to control the vehicle.

Never place floor mats or any other covering on top of already installed floor mats. Floor mats should always rest on top of vehicle carpeting surface and not another floor mat or other covering. Additional floor mats or any other covering will reduce the pedal clearance and potentially interfere with pedal operation.

•

•

Transmissions give their best fuel economy when operated in the top cruise gear and with steady pressure on the gas pedal. Four-wheel-drive operation (if equipped) is less fuel efficient than two-wheel-drive operation.

• Close the windows for high-speed

driving.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

WARNING

Do not drive through flowing or deep water as you may lose control of your vehicle.

Note: Driving through standing water can cause vehicle damage. Note: Engine damage can occur if water enters the air filter. Before driving through standing water, check the depth. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the wheel hubs.

When driving through standing water, drive very slowly and do not stop your vehicle. Your brake performance and traction may be limited. After driving through water and as soon as it is safe to do so:

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E176913Driving Hints

Do not use F-150 vehicles equipped with the 2.7L or 3.5L engines for snowplowing. Installing the Snowplow Weight limits and guidelines for selecting and installing the snowplow are in the Ford Truck Body Builders Layout Book, snowplow section, found at www.fleet.ford.com/truckbbas. A typical installation affects the following: • Certification to government safety laws such as occupant protection and airbag deployment, braking, and lighting. Look for an Alterer’s Label on your vehicle from the snowplow installer certifying that the installation meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). The Front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is on the upper left side of the vehicle’s Safety Compliance Certification Label. This is the total weight that front axle supports, which includes the vehicle weight plus any auxiliary equipment such as snowplow frame-mounted hardware that can be added to the vehicle and satisfy Ford compliance certification to FMVSS. Do not exceed FGAWR or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

•

• Rear ballast weight behind the rear

axle may be required to prevent exceeding the FGAWR, and provide front-to-rear weight balance for proper braking and steering. Front wheel toe may require re-adjustment to prevent premature uneven tire wear. Specifications are in the Ford Workshop Manual.

•

• Headlight aim may require adjustment.

WARNINGS

Check attachment of floor mats on a regular basis. Always properly reinstall and secure floor mats that

have been removed for cleaning or replacement.

Always make sure that objects cannot fall into the driver foot well while the vehicle is moving. Objects that are loose can become trapped under the pedals causing a loss of vehicle control. Failure to properly follow floor mat installation or attachment instructions can potentially cause

interference with pedal operation causing a loss of vehicle control.

To install floor mats, position the floor mat so that the eyelet is over the retention post and press down to lock in. To remove the floor mat, reverse the installation procedure. SNOWPLOWING We recommend the four-wheel drive F-150
in XL, XLT or Lariat trim levels with the 5.0L engine and snowplow option for residential snowplowing only. We do not recommend the F-150 with the automatic four-wheel drive system for snowplowing.

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E142666Driving Hints

Note: The electrical system is designed to support the addition of a residential snowplow (up to 60 Amps continuous) and snowplow lights (up to 20 Amps continuous) using snowplow mode. The system is not designed to support snowplow usage with additional electrical aftermarket accessories. Operating the Vehicle with the Snowplow Attached Note: Drive the vehicle at least 500 miles (800 kilometers) before using your vehicle for snow removal. We recommend vehicle speed does not exceed 45 mph (72 km/h) when snowplowing. The attached snowplow blade restricts airflow to the radiator, and may cause the engine to run at a higher temperature. Attention to engine temperature is especially important when outside temperatures are above freezing. Angle the blade to maximize airflow to the radiator and monitor engine temperature to determine whether a left or right angle provides the best performance. Follow the severe duty schedule in your Scheduled Maintenance information for engine oil and transmission fluid change intervals. Snowplowing with your Airbag Equipped Vehicle

WARNINGS

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) or its fuses.

Contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer.

•

•

The tire air pressures recommended for general driving are on the vehicle’s Safety Certification Label. The maximum cold inflation pressure for the tire and associated load rating are on the tire sidewall. Tire air pressure may require re-adjustment within these pressure limits to accommodate the additional weight of the snowplow installation. Federal and some local regulations require additional exterior lamps for snowplow-equipped vehicles. Contact an authorized dealer for additional information.

Snowplow Mode (If Equipped) Press the snowplow button on the instrument panel to switch on snowplow mode. The button illuminates when in snowplow mode. A message appears in the information display indicating that features are turned off when in snowplow mode. The following features are disabled when in snowplow mode: • • • Heated steering wheel. • Heated front and rear seats. • Massaging seats. The body module also activates the snowplow relay that provides power to aftermarket snowplow controls. Switch off snowplow mode by pressing the snowplow button or switching off the ignition. The snowplow button is no longer illuminated and features are turned on.

110V inverter. Fog lamps.

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Driving Hints

WARNINGS

Additional equipment such as snowplow equipment may affect the performance of the airbag sensors increasing the risk of injury. Please refer to the Body Builders Layout Book for instructions about the appropriate installation of additional equipment.

All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even

when provided with an airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS).

Your vehicle is equipped with a driver and passenger airbag supplemental restraint system. The supplemental restraint system activates in certain frontal and offset frontal collisions when the vehicle sustains sufficient longitudinal deceleration. Careless or high speed driving while snowplowing, which results in significant vehicle decelerations, can deploy the airbag. Such driving also increases the risk of accidents. Never remove or defeat the tripping mechanisms designed into the snow removal equipment by its manufacturer. Doing so may cause damage to the vehicle and the snow removal equipment as well as possible airbag deployment. Engine Temperature while Plowing Your engine may run at a higher temperature than normal because the attached snowplow blade restricts airflow to the radiator: