2014 Ford F150 Regular Cab F-150 Raptor Supplement Printing 1 - Page 22

Driving Hints Before operating your vehicle at higher than normal speeds: • Make sure your tires are at the correct tire pressure. See Tire Care (page 26). • Inspect wheels and tires for wear and damage. Replace any damaged wheels or tires. • Never operate the vehicle at higher than normal speeds when loaded with passengers/cargo. Driving in Sand WARNING Tires must be returned to normal recommended tire pressures before driving on pavement or hard surfaces. Failure to properly maintain your tire pressure could increase the risk of tire failure, loss of control, vehicle rollover and personal injury. Soft sand and dunes present a very unique driving challenge. Before going on such a drive, some research is advised regarding proven techniques and pitfalls inherent in driving in deep sand. Some general points to consider: • It is very difficult and in many cases impossible to navigate deep sand with tire pressures which are appropriate for on-road driving. If you decide to air down your tires, be advised that the tire pressure monitoring light will illuminate. The tires must be returned to normal recommended tire pressures before driving on pavement or hard surfaces. • Lower tire pressures are more likely to cause a debeading of the tire during cornering. Avoid sharp or abrupt turns when you have extremely low tire pressures. • To help prevent becoming stuck in deep sand, avoid spinning the tires or making abrupt maneuvers. Proceed in a controlled manner while maintaining vehicle momentum. • Avoid stopping or parking on inclines as this makes it more difficult to resume driving. Driving in Mud • Deep mud should be approached with caution especially if you are driving in an unfamiliar area. If possible, test the depth of a mud hole before entering with the vehicle. Keep in mind that obstacles and deep ruts may be hidden beneath the surface of the mud. Proceed in a steady, controlled manner through deep mud while maintaining momentum. If momentum is lost and you feel the vehicle becoming stuck, turning the steering wheel back and forth (sawing the wheel) quarter turn in each direction may give the traction you need to clear the muddy area. In higher speed areas with shallow mud, directional control will be reduced in the muddy area much like on snow or ice. When approaching such an area, be sure to slow to a speed which allows you to maneuver as required by the conditions. • • • • • 20 F150 (TF6)