2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab F-150 Raptor Supplement Printing 1 - Page 21

Driving Hints Off-road Screen The real-time status of your vehicles off-road systems can be continuously monitored using the first off-road screen found under the Truck Apps menu in the information displays screen. See the Information Displays chapter of your Owner 's Manual for more information. • When running with other vehicles, it is recommended that communication is used, and the lead vehicle notify other vehicles of obstacles that could cause potential vehicle damage. Always keep available ground clearance in mind and pick a route that minimizes the risk of catching the underside of the vehicle on an obstacle. When negotiating low speed obstacles, applying light brake pressure in conjunction with the throttle will help prevent the vehicle from jerking and will allow you to negotiate the obstacle in a more controlled manner. Using 4L will also help with this. Use and equip supplemental safety equipment as discussed later in this chapter. Please consult your local off-road group for other helpful tips. Off-roading requires a high degree of concentration. Even if your local law does not prohibit alcohol use while driving off-road, Ford strongly recommends against drinking if you plan to off-road. • Basic Off-road Driving Techniques • • Grip the steering wheel with thumbs on the outside of the rim. This will reduce the risk of injury due to abrupt steering wheel motions that occur when negotiating rough terrain. Do not grip the steering wheel with thumbs inside the rim. Throttle, brake and steering inputs should be made in a smooth and controlled manner. Sudden inputs to the controls can cause loss of traction or upset the vehicle, especially while on sloped terrain or while crossing obstacles such as rocks or logs. Look ahead on your route noting upcoming obstacles, surface texture or color changes or any other factors which may indicate a change in available traction, and adjust the vehicle speed and route accordingly. During pre-run, mark obstacles with GPS markers to make sure appropriate speeds are used to avoid potential vehicle damage. When driving off-road, if the front or rear suspension is bottoming-out and/or excessive contact with the skid-plates is encountered, reduce vehicle speed to avoid potential damage to the vehicle. • • • • • • Operating a Performance Vehicle at Higher than Normal Speeds Your vehicle is capable of operating at higher than normal off-road speeds and is equipped with tires rated for the vehicles' maximum speed. However, it is important to remember to always drive safely, obey all traffic laws and only operate your vehicle at higher than normal speeds at locations and under conditions where such can be done safely. • 19 F150 (TF6)