2008 Ford F450 Owner Guide 4th Printing - Page 251
2008 Ford F450 Manual
Page 251 highlights
Tires, Wheels and Loading Driving while you tow When towing a trailer: • Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles (800 km) of trailer towing and don't make full-throttle starts. • Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades. • Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer. • To eliminate excessive transmission shifting, activate the Tow/Haul feature. This will also assist in transmission cooling. (For additional information, refer to the Understanding the shift positions of the 5-speed automatic transmission section in the Driving chapter. • Anticipate stops and brake gradually. • Do not exceed the GCWR rating or transmission damage may occur. • Your vehicle may be equipped with a temporary or conventional spare tire. If the spare tire is different in size (diameter and/or width), tread type (All-Season or All-Terrain) or is from a different manufacturer other than the road tires on your vehicle, your spare tire is considered "temporary". Consult information on the spare Tire Label or Safety Compliance Certification Label for limitations when using. Servicing after towing If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle will require more frequent service intervals. Refer to your scheduled maintenance information for more information. Trailer towing safety tips General • Ensure that the trailer, safety chains and 7-pin electrical connectors are securely fastened. • Make sure the truck receiver, draw bar, and coupler are properly connected and adjusted. • Check rear view and side mirrors for proper visibility especially when towing trailer wider than the truck. • When towing, operate the vehicle at lower speeds than you would when not towing a trailer. The likelihood of trailer sway is greater at higher speeds. 251 2008 F-250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA (fus)