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.
The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the
GVWR not GCWR.
Trailer lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. See your
dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for
hooking up trailer lamps.
Never connect any trailer lighting to the vehicle’s taillamp
circuits, because it may damage the electrical system resulting in
fire. Contact your local Ford dealership for assistance in proper trailer
tow wiring installation. Additional electrical equipment may be
required.
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.
•
To eliminate excessive shifting, use a lower gear. This will also assist
in transmission cooling. (For additional information, refer to the
Driving with a 5–speed automatic transmission
section in the
Driving
chapter.)
•
Under extreme conditions with large frontal trailers, high outside
temperatures and highway speeds, the coolant gauge may indicate
higher than normal coolant temperatures. If this occurs, reduce speed
until the coolant temperature returns to the normal range. Refer to
Engine coolant temperature gauge
in the
Instrument Cluster
chapter.
•
Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
•
Do not exceed the GCWR rating or transmission damage may occur.
Servicing after towing
If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle will require more
frequent service intervals. Refer to your
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
for more information.
REVIEW COPY
2005 Aviator f/k/a Navigator LS
(231)
, Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
(own2002)
,
Market:
USA_English
(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
262
Summary of Contents for 2005 Aviator a Navigator LS
Page 368: ...368...
