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Driving while you tow, Servicing after towing, Trailer towing tips – FORD 2009 Taurus X v.2 User Manual

Page 250: Tires, wheels and loading

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connect trailer lamps directly to your vehicle’s tail lamps. This can cause
damage to your vehicle’s electrical system. Contact your authorized
dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for
hooking up trailer lamps.

Driving while you tow

When towing a trailer:
• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off

automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.

• Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer.
• It is recommended to select the L (Low) gear position when additional

engine braking is needed. In situations such as prolonged downhill
driving on steep grades (i.e., driving in mountainous areas), additional
engine braking is needed to reduce the load on the vehicle’s regular
brake system to prevent them from overheating.

• Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
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
• 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.
• If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do

not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become
less effective.

• The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer

weight.

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

hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.

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

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

• 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.

2009 Taurus X (219)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA
(fus)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

250