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.
•
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.
•
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 Drive (Overdrive
OFF) on moderately steep hills, Second (2) on steep hills, and First (1)
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
•
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.
•
The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer
weight.
•
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.
2009 Econoline
(eco)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA
(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
188
