FORD 2010 E-450 v.2 - Manual (Page 190)

Driving while you tow
When towing a trailer:
• To ensure proper break-in of powertrain components, do not trailer
tow during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of a new vehicle.
• To ensure proper break-in of powertrain components during the first
500 miles (800 km) of trailer towing, drive no faster than 70 mph
(113 km/h) with no full throttle starts.
• Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer.
• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off
automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.
• To eliminate excessive shifting, use a lower gear. This will also assist
in transmission cooling.
• Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
When descending long, steep downhill grades, always use a lower gear to
provide engine braking to save wear on brakes. Use D (Overdrive OFF)
on moderately steep hills, 2 (Second) on steep hills, and 1 (First) on
very steep hills. Do not apply your brakes continuously, as they
may overheat and become less effective.
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 tips
• The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer
weight.
• 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.
• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached.
• 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
Tires, Wheels and Loading
190
2010 Econoline (eco)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA (fus)