2012 Ford F350 Super Duty Owner Guide 4th Printing - Page 261
2012 Ford F350 Super Duty Manual
Page 261 highlights
Tires, Wheels and Loading 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 Tire Label or Safety Compliance Certification Label for limitations when using. 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 a trailer wider than the truck. • When turning, make wide turns to allow trailer tires to properly clear any obstacles. • Operate the vehicle at lower speeds than you would when not towing a trailer; the likelihood of trailer sway is greater at higher speeds. • Be prepared for trailer sway due to buffeting when larger vehicles pass in either direction. • If you will be towing a trailer frequently in hot weather, hilly conditions, at GCWR, or any combination of these factors, consider refilling your rear axle with synthetic gear lubricant if not already so equipped. Refer to Maintenance product specifications and capacities in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter for the proper axle lubricant. Remember that regardless of the rear axle lubricant used, do not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles (800 km) of a new vehicle, and that the first 500 miles (800 km) of towing be done at no faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) with no full-throttle starts. Loading • Trailer loads should be evenly distributed front-to-back and left-to-right. • Never exceed truck, trailer, receiver, ball, tongue, tire or coupler loading recommendations. • Keep the center of gravity low for best handling. 261 2012 F-250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide, 4th Printing USA (fus)