2012 Ford F150 Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 283

Tires, Wheels and Loading Launching or retrieving a boat Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer into the water. Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the trailer is removed 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 in (15 cm) 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 any time the axle has been submerged in water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or repair required. RECREATIONAL TOWING Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle. Refer to the Climate Controls chapter. Follow these guidelines if you need to tow your vehicle behind another vehicle, such as a motor home. The guidelines are designed to prevent damage to your vehicle and its transmission after it is hooked-up to the tow vehicle or tow dolly. 2WD vehicles cannot be towed with any wheels on the ground as vehicle or transmission damage may occur. The vehicle must be towed with all four wheels off the ground (i.e. with a car-hauling trailer). 4WD vehicles can only be towed 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 Four-wheel-down towing section after positioning your vehicle behind the tow vehicle and properly securing them together Four-wheel-down towing 1. Turn the ignition to the on position; do not start the engine. 2. Press and hold the brake pedal. 3. Shift the 4WD switch to 2H. 283 2012 F-150 (f12) Owners Guide, 2nd Printing USA (fus)