Ford 2011 E-450 v.2 User Manual download pdf (Page 180)

Trailer towing tips

• Practice turning, stopping and backing-up before starting on a trip to

get the feel of the vehicle-trailer combination. When turning, make

wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.

• To aid in engine/transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot

weather while stopped in traffic, place the gearshift lever in P (Park).

• After you have traveled 50 miles (80 km), thoroughly check your

hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.

• 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 lube if not already so

equipped. Refer to the Maintenance and Specifications chapter for

the lubricant specification. Remember that regardless of the rear axle

lube used, do not tow a trailer for the first 1,000 miles (1,600 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.

• Do not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles (800 km) after changing

the rear axle lube.

• Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must

park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer’s wheels.

Launching or retrieving a boat

Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer

into the water. Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the

trailer is removed from the water.

When backing down a ramp during boat launching or retrieval:

• Do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of

the rear bumper.

• Do not allow waves to break higher than 6 in (15 cm) above the

bottom edge of the rear bumper.

Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components:

• Causing internal damage to the components.

• Affecting driveability, emissions and reliability.

Replace the rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in

water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed

unless a leak is suspected or repair required.

Tires, Wheels and Loading

180

2011 Econoline (eco)

Owners Guide, 2nd Printing

USA (fus)

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Ford 2011 E-450 v.2 User Manual Page 180