2005 Ford Escape Owner Guide 3rd Printing (Spanish) - Page 505

Tires, Wheels and Loading Special loading instructions for owners of pickup trucks and utility-type vehicles For important information regarding safe operation of this type of vehicle, see the Preparing to drive your vehicle section in the Driving chapter of this Owner's Guide. Loaded vehicles may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions, such as slower speeds and increased stopping distance, should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle. Your vehicle can haul more cargo and people than most passenger cars. Depending upon the type and placement of the load, hauling cargo and people may raise the center of gravity of the vehicle. Calculating the load your vehicle can carry/tow 1. Use the appropriate maximum GCWR chart (in the Trailer towing section in this chapter) for your type of engine and rear axle ratio. 2. Weigh your vehicle without cargo. To obtain correct weights, take your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks. 3. Subtract your loaded weight from the maximum GCWR in the chart. This is the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. It must be below the maximum trailer weight shown in the chart. TRAILER TOWING Trailer towing with your vehicle may require the use of a trailer tow option package. Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle's engine, transaxle, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension. For your safety and to maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment while towing. Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing procedure: • Stay within your vehicle's load limits. • Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to Preparing to tow in this chapter. • Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer to Driving while you tow in this chapter. • Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to the severe duty schedule in the scheduled maintenance guide. 179 2005 Escape (204) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA_English (fus)