TOWING A TRAILER
WARNING:
Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on
the certification label.
WARNING:
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended
gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of your vehicle and could
result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss
of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.
Note:
For information on electrical items such as fuses or relays, see the
Fuses
chapter.
The load capacity of your vehicle is designated by weight not volume.
You may not necessarily be able to use all available space when loading
your vehicle or trailer.
Towing a trailer places extra load on the engine, transmission, axle,
brakes, tires, and suspension. Inspect these components before, during
and after towing.
Load Placement
To help minimize how trailer movement affects your vehicle when
driving:
•
Load the heaviest items closest to the trailer floor.
•
Load the heaviest items centered between the left and right side
trailer tires.
•
Load the heaviest items above the trailer axles or just slightly forward
toward the trailer tongue. Do not allow the final trailer tongue weight
to go above or below 10–15% of the loaded trailer weight.
•
Select a tow bar with the correct rise or drop. When both the loaded
vehicle and trailer are connected, the trailer frame should be level, or
slightly angled down toward your vehicle, when viewed from the side.
When driving with a trailer or payload, a slight takeoff vibration or
shudder may be present due to the increased payload weight. You can
find more information about proper trailer loading and setting your
vehicle up for towing under
Load limit
in the
Load Carrying
chapter.
You can also find information in the
RV and Trailer Towing Guide
available at your authorized dealer.
122
Towing
2015 Econoline
(eco)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, December 2014
USA
(fus)
