2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab F-150 Raptor Supplement Printing 1 - Page 25

Driving Hints Some points to consider: • Build up speed slowly. Initially, drive at a pace which allows ample time to fully assess the terrain around you and to understand how the vehicle is responding to both the terrain and driver inputs. Increase pace as comfort increases while always being mindful of how the vehicle is responding to various events at different speeds. • Find a wide open place to experiment with different functions on the truck. Try a given maneuver with different vehicle settings (4H vs. 4L), (differential locked vs. unlocked), (AdvanceTrac in key-on vs. single press vs. press and hold modes) and see how the truck responds. Start slowly and build pace as comfort increases. • Similarly, in a wide open space, experiment with different driving techniques. For example, if the vehicle is tending to push straight ahead when trying to negotiate a turn (understeering or plowing), a light application of the brake while turning may help rotate the truck. A wider entry to the corner or entering the corner more slowly may help the truck turn and allow you to apply the throttle sooner after negotiating the turn. • Remember the phrase smooth is fast. This refers to your steering, throttle, and brake movements. Smooth decisive movements will yield improved results while helping to increase safety. • As speed increases, it is wise to look farther ahead of the vehicle so that there is time to react to oncoming obstacles. Remember that in many off-road environments, obstacles will be hard to see until they are relatively near. A good strategy is to alternate between looking far ahead and up closer to the front of the vehicle as you're driving. Also remember to drive what you can see. This refers to not driving faster than you are able to negotiate unforeseen upcoming obstacles. This could refer to obstacles over a brow, in a ravine, in brush, in dusty conditions, and in the darkness among others. If you are driving in a dusty area. Be sure to leave ample distance between you and any other vehicles to make sure adequate vision. Always remember that you may not be the only one in a particular recreational area, always be cognizant of others in your area. This is especially true of motorcycles and ATV's which may be more difficult to spot than a full-sized vehicle. If driving in desert conditions, it is advised that you always drive with your headlights on to help other drivers more easily see you. While driving in desert conditions, the midpoint of the day is the most difficult time to see many of the small ridges and dips due to flat shadows from the sun being at its highest point. Extreme care should be taken at these times to not inadvertently run into these obstacles. • • • • • 23 F150 (TF6)