2002 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 194

Driving Hitches Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper. Use a load carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue. Safety chains Always connect the trailer's safety chains to the hook retainers on the hitch. To connect the trailer's safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners. If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency gives to you. Do not attach safety chains to the bumper. 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. 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. Ensure that your trailer lamps conform to local and Federal Regulations. Do not splice or modify the vehicle electrical wiring or lamps for trailer towing. Your vehicle uses an advanced electronic module with ground side switching to control and monitor your vehicle lamps. Splicing into the wiring or attaching wiring to the vehicle bulbs will DISABLE the rear vehicle lamps from functioning. Your lamp outage feature will also be disabled or provide incorrect information. Your vehicle is ready to install a Trailer Tow module that will provide the proper communication with the vehicle electrical system so your trailer lamps will function properly. See your dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking up trailer lamps. 194