2002 Ford Excursion Owner's Manual - Page 130

Driving Engine 5.4L 6.8L 6.8L 7.3L (Diesel) 4x4 with automatic transmission Rear axle Maximum GCWR-kg Maximum trailer ratio (lbs.) weight-kg (lbs.) 4.10 6 577 (14 500) 3 265 (7 200) 3.73 7 711 (17 000) 4 354 (9 600) 4.30 8 164 (18 000) 4 536 (10 000) 3.73 8 164 (18 000) 4 536 (10 000) The frame mounted hitch receiver is non-removable. Towing a Class IV trailer (extra heavy duty) 2 268-4 536 kg (5 001-10 000 lbs.) trailer weight requires a weight-distributing or fifth-wheel hitch. Preparing to tow Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer, and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. See your dealer or a reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance. Load equalizing hitch When hooking up a trailer using a load equalizing hitch, always use the following procedure: 1. Park the unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and all doors closed, allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes so that it can level. 2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers at the center of the vehicle. 3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and adjust the hitch equalizers so that the front bumper height is within 0-13 mm (1/2 inch) of the reference point. After proper adjustment, the rear bumper should be no higher than in Step 3. Adjusting an equalizing hitch so the rear bumper of the vehicle is lower or higher than it was unloaded will defeat the function of the load equalizing hitch and may cause unpredictable handling. 130