FORD 2013 Escape v.2 - Manual (Page 193)

• Refer to the instructions included with
towing accessories for the proper
installation and adjustment
specifications.
• Service your vehicle more frequently if
you tow a trailer. Refer to your
scheduled maintenance information.
• If you use a rental trailer, follow the
instructions the rental agency gives
you.
Load specification terms found on the tire
label and Safety Compliance label and for
instructions on calculating your vehicle's
load can be found in another chapter of
this manual. See Load Limit (page 179).
Remember to account for the trailer
tongue weight as part of the vehicle load
when calculating the total vehicle weight.
Hitches
Note: Never attach safety chains to the
bumper.
Do not use a hitch that either clamps onto
the bumper or attaches to the axle.
Distribute the trailer load so 10-15% of the
total trailer weight is on the trailer tongue.
Safety Chains
Note: Never attach safety chains to the
bumper.
Always connect the safety chains to the
hook retainers of the vehicle hitch.
To connect the trailer's safety chains, cross
the chains under the trailer tongue and
allow enough slack for turning tight
corners. Do not allow the chains to drag
on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
WARNING
Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic
brake system directly to your
vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle
may not have enough braking power and
your chances of having a collision greatly
increase.
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or
surge-type trailer brakes are safe if
installed properly and adjusted to the
manufacturer's specifications. The trailer
brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.
The braking system of the tow vehicle
is rated for operation at the GVWR not
GCWR.
Separate functioning brake systems
are required for safe control of towed
vehicles and trailers weighing more
than 1500 pounds (680 kilograms)
when loaded.
Trailer Lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed
vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake
lights, turn signals and hazard lights are
working. Contact your authorized dealer
or trailer rental agency for proper
instructions and equipment for hooking up
the lamps.
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing-up
to get the feel of the vehicle-trailer
combination before starting on a trip.
When turning, make wider turns so the
trailer wheels clear curbs and other
obstacles.
190
Towing