engine FORD F-150 2021 Owners Manual

TOWING A TRAILER
PRECAUTIONS
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. WARNING:
Do not exceed
the lowest rating capacity for
your vehicle or trailer hitch.
Overloading your vehicle or
trailer hitch can impair your
vehicle stability and handling.
Failure to follow this instruction
could result in the loss of control
of your vehicle, personal injury or
death. WARNING: Make sure that
the vertical load on the tow ball
is between the minimum and
maximum recommended weight
at all times. Failure to follow this
instruction could result in the
loss of control of your vehicle,
personal injury or death. WARNING:
Do not cut,
drill, weld or modify the trailer
hitch. Modifying the trailer hitch
could reduce the hitch rating. WARNING:
The anti-lock
brake system does not control
the trailer brakes.
TRAILER BRAKE
PRECAUTIONS WARNING:
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. WARNING:
Do not tow a trailer
fitted with electric trailer brakes unless
your vehicle is fitted with a compatible
aftermarket electronic trailer brake
controller. Failure to follow this
instruction could result in the loss of
control of your vehicle, personal injury or
death. For additional information and
assistance, we recommend that you
contact an authorized dealer.
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or
surge-type trailer brakes are safe if you
install them properly and adjust them to
the manufacturer's specifications. The
trailer brakes must meet local and federal
regulations.
The rating for the tow vehicle's braking
system operation is at the gross vehicle
weight rating, not the gross combined
weight rating.
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Certain states require functioning trailer
brakes for trailers over a specified weight.
Be sure to check state regulations for this
specified weight.
Ford Motor Company recommends
separate functioning brake systems for
trailers weighing more than 1,500 lb
(680 kg) when loaded.
TOWING A TRAILER
LIMITATIONS
The vehicle's load capacity
designation is by weight, not by
volume, so you cannot necessarily
use all available space when
loading a vehicle or trailer.
Note: Your vehicle could have
reduced performance when
operating at high altitudes and
when heavily loaded or towing a
trailer. When driving at elevation,
to match driving performance as
perceived at sea level, reduce gross
vehicle weight and gross
combination weight by 2% per
1,000 ft (300 m)
elevation.
LOADING YOUR TRAILER
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. The
trailer tongue weight should
never exceed 10% of the
maximum towing capacity.
• Select a ball mount 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.
TRAILER TOWING HINTS
Towing a trailer places an extra load on
your vehicle's engine, transmission, axle,
brakes, tires and suspension. Periodically
inspect these components during and after
any towing operation.
When driving with a trailer or payload, a
slight takeoff vibration or shudder may be
present due to the increased payload
weight.
Your vehicle may have a temporary or
conventional spare tire. A temporary spare
tire is different in diameter or width,
tread-type, or is from a different
manufacturer than the road tires on your
vehicle. Consult information on the tire
label or Safety Compliance label for
limitations when using.
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When towing a trailer:
•
Obey country specific regulations for
towing a trailer.
• Do not drive faster than 70 mph
(113 km/h) during the first 500 mi
(800 km).
• Do not make full-throttle starts.
• Check your hitch, electrical connections
and trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughly
after you have traveled 50 mi (80 km).
• When stopped in congested or heavy
traffic during hot weather, place the
transmission in park (P) to aid engine
and transmission cooling and to help
A/C performance.
• Turn off the speed control with heavy
loads or in hilly terrain. The speed
control may turn off when you are
towing on long, steep slopes.
• Shift to a lower gear when driving down
a long or steep hill. Do not continuously
apply the brakes, as they may overheat
and become less effective.
• If your transmission has Grade Assist
or Tow/Haul, use this feature when
towing. This provides engine braking
and helps eliminate excessive
transmission shifting for optimum fuel
economy and transmission cooling.
• Your vehicle has AdvanceTrac with roll
stability control. When towing a trailer,
additional loads could cause the
AdvanceTrac system to engage during
cornering maneuvers. Reduce cornering
speeds to make sure that you can
maintain control of the vehicle and
trailer if the AdvanceTrac system
engages. •
Allow more distance for stopping with
a trailer attached. Anticipate stops and
gradually brake.
• Avoid parking on a slope. However, if
you must park on a slope, turn the
steering wheel to point your vehicle
tires away from traffic flow, set the
parking brake, place the transmission
in park (P) and place wheel chocks in
front and back of the trailer wheels.
Note: Chocks are not included with your
vehicle.
LAUNCHING OR RETRIEVING
A BOAT OR PERSONAL
WATERCRAFT
When backing down a ramp during boat
launching or retrieval:
• Do not allow the static water level to
rise above the bottom edge of the rear
bumper.
• Do not allow waves to break higher
than
6 in (15 cm) above the bottom
edge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding
6 in (15 cm) could allow water
to enter vehicle components, causing
internal damage to the components and
affecting driveability, emissions and
reliability.
Note: Replace the rear axle lubricant
anytime the rear axle has been submerged
in water.
Note: Disconnect the trailer wiring
connector before backing the trailer into the
water.
Note: Reconnect the trailer wiring
connector after removing the trailer from
the water.
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6. If the trailer wheels lock up, indicated
by squealing tires, reduce the gain
setting. If the trailer wheels turn freely,
increase the gain setting. Repeat Steps
5 and 6 until the gain setting is at a
point just below trailer wheel lock-up.
If towing a heavier trailer, trailer wheel
lock-up may not be attainable even
with the maximum gain setting of 10.
Note: Only perform this procedure at
speeds of approximately 20– 25 mph
(30–40 km/h).
Note: The trailer brake controller reduces
output at vehicle speeds below
11 mph
(18 km/h) so that trailer and vehicle braking
is not jerky or harsh. This feature is only
available when applying the brakes using
your vehicle's brake pedal, not the
controller.
Note: Your vehicle's brake system and the
trailer brake system work independently of
each other. Changing the gain setting on the
controller does not affect the operation of
your vehicle's brakes whether you attach a
trailer or not.
Note: With the proper electrical connection,
pressing your vehicle brake pedal or using
the manual control lever illuminates both
trailer and vehicle brake lamps.
Note: When you switch the engine off, the
controller output is disabled and the display
and module shut down. The controller
module and display turn on when you switch
the ignition on. Adjusting the Trailer Brake Gain
Increase or decrease the amount
of gain in set increments.
A
Slide the control to engage the
trailer brakes.
B
Note: Adjust gain setting before using the
trailer brake controller for the first time.
Note: The gain should be set to provide the
maximum trailer braking assistance while
making sure the trailer wheels do not lock
when using the brakes. Locked trailer wheels
may lead to trailer instability.
Note: Setting adjustments are saved when
a trailer profile is selected.
Note: If you have installed an aftermarket
trailer brake controller in addition to the
integrated trailer brake controller, set the
gain on the integrated trailer brake controller
to zero.
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(If Equipped)E333154

HOW DOES TRAILER SWAY
CONTROL WORK
The system applies the brakes to the
individual wheels and reduces engine
torque to aid vehicle stability.
If the trailer begins to sway, the stability
control lamp flashes and the message
Trailer Sway Reduce Speed appears in
the information display.
Stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to
do so. Check the vertical weight on the
tow ball and trailer load distribution.
TRAILER SWAY CONTROL
PRECAUTIONS WARNING: Turning off trailer sway
control increases the risk of loss of
vehicle control, serious injury or death.
Ford does not recommend disabling this
feature except in situations where speed
reduction may be detrimental (such as
hill climbing), the driver has significant
trailer towing experience, and can control
trailer sway and maintain safe operation.
Note: This feature only activates when
significant trailer sway occurs.
Note: This feature does not prevent trailer
sway, but reduces it once it begins.
Note: This feature cannot stop all trailers
from swaying.
Note: In some cases, if vehicle speed is too
high, the system may activate multiple
times, gradually reducing vehicle speed.
SWITCHING TRAILER SWAY
CONTROL ON AND OFF
1. Press
Features on the touchscreen. 2. Press
Towing.
3. Switch
Trailer Sway Control on or off.
The system turns on each time you start
your vehicle.
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OFF-ROAD DRIVING
WHAT IS OFF-ROAD DRIVING
Off-road driving is driving your vehicle on
unsurfaced roads or trails, made from dirt,
rocks, sand and mud.
OFF-ROAD DRIVING
PRECAUTIONS - RAPTOR
WARNING: If you continue to drive
your vehicle when the engine is
overheating, the engine could stop
without warning. Failure to follow this
instruction could result in the loss of
control of your vehicle.
Before going off-road driving, consult with
all the appropriate government entities to
determine where you are legally allowed
to operate your vehicle and what permits
or registrations are required to do so.
Inspect your vehicle before and after any
off-road driving.
Familiarize yourself with the dimensions
of your vehicle including approach angles,
breakover angles, and ground clearance.
Also familiarize yourself with the features
of your vehicle. Some of these features
such as drive modes and cameras can
improve your off-road driving experience.
Secure loose objects inside your vehicle
and in the cargo area.
BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVING
TECHNIQUES - RAPTOR
Grip the steering wheel with your thumbs
on the outside of the rim. This reduces the
risk of injury due to abrupt steering wheel
motions that occur when negotiating rough
terrain. If you are driving in a dusty area, be sure to
leave ample distance between your vehicle
and any other vehicles to allow for
adequate vision.
BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVING
TECHNIQUES
Off-road Driving Hints
Before taking your vehicle off-roading, a
basic vehicle inspection should be done to
make sure that the vehicle is in top working
condition. It is always recommended that
at least two vehicles are used while
off-roading. The buddy system helps make
sure that help is close at hand should a
vehicle become stuck or damaged. It is also
wise to take supplies such as a first aid kit,
supply of water, tow strap, cell or satellite
phone with you any time an off-road
excursion is planned.
1. Grip the steering wheel with thumbs
on the outside of the rim. This will
reduce the risk of injury due to abrupt
steering wheel motions that occur
when negotiating rough terrain.
2. Throttle, brake and steering inputs should be made in a smooth and
controlled manner. Sudden inputs to
the controls can cause loss of traction
or upset the vehicle, especially while
on loose terrain or while crossing
obstacles such as rocks or logs.
3. Look ahead on your route noting upcoming obstacles, or any other
factors which may indicate a change
in available traction, and adjust the
vehicle speed and route accordingly.
4. When driving off-road, if the front or rear suspension is bottoming out
and/or excessive contact with the
skid-plates is encountered, reduce
vehicle speed to avoid potential
damage to the vehicle.
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Vehicles used to traverse water should be
periodically inspected for signs of water
ingestion in all of the vehicle's fluids. If
water is found inside your vehicle fluids,
service your vehicle or see an authorized
dealer.
Avoid Getting High-Centered
Always keep available ground clearance
in mind and pick a route that minimizes the
risk of catching the underside of the vehicle
on an obstacle and getting high-centered.
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle
WARNING: Do not spin the wheels
at over 34 mph (55 km/h). The tires may
fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Recovery hooks are mounted to the
vehicle's structure and are used to pull out
the vehicle from a surface or location when
stuck. Recover your vehicle using various
towing apparatus attached to your
recovery hook such as winch, open hook,
or strap.
Note: Do not use recovery hooks to
recreationally tow your vehicle. See
Recreationally Towing Your Vehicle (page
490
).
Note: Do not rock your vehicle if the engine
is not at normal operating temperature as
damage to the transmission could occur.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle for more
than a minute as damage to the
transmission and tires could occur or the
engine could overheat.
If you are unable to free your vehicle call
roadside assistance. See
Roadside
Assistance (page 483). Crossing A Ravine, Gully, Ditch,
Washout Or Rut
Review the path ahead before attempting
to cross any obstacle.
Driving Over Logs
Review the path ahead before attempting
to cross any obstacle.
DRIVING YOUR VEHICLE AT HIGH
SPEEDS - RAPTOR
If you plan on using your vehicle for severe,
high speed off-road use, we recommend
the following:
•
Equipping your vehicle with the safety
equipment appropriate for off-road
recovery.
• Using personal safety equipment,
including a certified helmet and
approved neck restraint device.
• Doing a low speed reconnaissance run
in unfamiliar areas to become aware
of any obstacles that you could
encounter.
Your vehicle can incur damage if driven
beyond its capabilities. Skid plates, shock
guards and running boards are designed
to help limit damage to vital components
and exterior finishes, but cannot prevent
all damage if driven in extreme off-road
conditions. Damage to skid plates, shock
guards, running boards and exterior
finishes as well as bent, cracked or broken
body, frame and chassis components may
not be covered by warranty.
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DRIVING THROUGH WATER
LIMITATIONS - RAPTOR
Maximum Wading
Depth
Model
32 in (810 mm)
All.
When you are driving though water do not
exceed 4 mph (7 km/h).
WATER WADING WARNING:
Do not attempt to
cross a deep, fast flowing body of water.
Failure to follow this instruction could
result in the loss of control of your
vehicle, personal injury or death.
As the water depth increases, you must
reduce your vehicle speed to avoid
potential vehicle damage. •
Always determine the depth before
attempting a water crossing. Never
drive through water that is higher than
the bottom of the wheel hubs.
• Slowly proceed and avoid splashing
water any more than is necessary. •
Be aware that obstacles and debris
may be beneath the water ’s surface.
• Keep the doors fully closed during the
water crossing.
• After driving through water and as soon
as it is safe to do so check the brakes,
horn, lights, and steering wheel to
confirm those systems are functioning
properly.
Note: Engine damage can occur if water
enters the air filter.
OFF-ROAD DRIVING AIDS -
RAPTOR
Selecting an Off-Road Drive Mode
Using the appropriate drive mode increases
your vehicle's control. See
Drive Mode
Control (page 371).
Using Four-Wheel Drive
Your vehicle has a four-wheel drive system
that offers various modes to help you
optimize traction on any off-road surface.
See
Four-Wheel Drive (page 291).
Using the Cameras Off-Road
Use the 360 degree camera to enhance
your off-road experience. See 360 Degree
Camera
(page 342).
Using the Rear Differential Lock
When engaged, the rear differential lock
provides additional traction to your vehicle
by forcing the two rear wheels to turn at
the same speed.
Note: Rear differential lock is only available
when the vehicle is in 4H or 4L. See
Electronic Locking Differential (page 301).
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WARNING: Always re-inflate tires
to recommended tire pressures before
the vehicle is operated on-road. The
recommended pressure is located on the
tire label or safety certification label,
located on the B-pillar, inside the driver's
door.
Driving off-road places more stress on your
vehicle than most on-road driving. After
driving off-road check for damage to your
vehicle and, if necessary, have your vehicle
fixed as soon as possible.
Inspect the underbody of your vehicle by
checking tires, body structure, steering,
suspension, and exhaust system for
damage.
Check the radiator for mud and debris and
clean as needed.
Remove accumulations of plants or brush.
These things could be a fire hazard or hide
damage to the fuel lines, brake hoses, and
propeller shafts.
After extended operation in mud, sand,
water, or similar dirty conditions, inspect
the underbody and clean your vehicle as
soon as possible.
If you experience unusual vibration after
driving in mud, slush or similar conditions,
check the wheels for impacted material.
Impacted material can cause vibrations
while driving and wheel imbalance.
Remove the material to resolve the
problem.
COLD WEATHER
PRECAUTIONS
The functional operation of some
components and systems can be affected
at temperatures below approximately
-13°F (-25°C)
. DRIVING ON SNOW AND ICE WARNING:
If you are driving in
slippery conditions that require tire
chains or cables, then it is critical that
you drive cautiously. Keep speeds down,
allow for longer stopping distances and
avoid aggressive steering to reduce the
chances of a loss of vehicle control
which can lead to serious injury or death.
If the rear end of your vehicle slides while
cornering, steer in the direction of the
slide until you regain control of your
vehicle.
On ice and snow, you should drive more
slowly than usual. Your vehicle has a four
wheel anti-lock brake system, do not pump
the brake pedal.
See Anti-Lock Braking
System Limitations (page 308).
BREAKING-IN
Your vehicle requires a break-in period. For
the first 1,000 mi (1,600 km), avoid driving
at high speeds, heavy braking, aggressive
shifting or using your vehicle to tow. During
this time, your vehicle may exhibit some
unusual driving characteristics.
DRIVING ECONOMICALLY
The following helps to improve fuel
consumption:
• There is no need to wait for your engine
to warm up. The vehicle is ready to
drive immediately after starting.
• Your fuel consumption should improve
throughout your hybrid's break-in
period.
• Accelerate and slow down in a smooth,
moderate fashion.
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•
Moderate braking is particularly
important since it allows you to
maximize the energy captured by the
regenerative braking system.
• Drive at steady speeds without
stopping.
• Anticipate stops; slowing down may
eliminate the need to stop.
• Driving on flat terrain.
• Drive at reasonable speeds and
observe posted speed limits.
• Shut all windows when driving at high
speeds.
• Combine errands and minimize
stop-and-go driving.
• Drive with the tonneau cover installed
if your vehicle comes with one.
• Keep the tires properly inflated and use
only the recommended size.
• Use the recommended engine oil.
• Follow the recommended maintenance
schedule and carry out the
recommended checks.
• Perform all scheduled maintenance.
Note: Having your engine running is not
always an indication of inefficiency. In some
cases, it is actually more efficient than
driving in electric mode.
Avoid these actions; they reduce your fuel
consumption:
• Revving the engine.
• Aggressive driving increases the
amount of energy required to move
your vehicle.
• Driving in lower temperatures during
the first 5–10 mi (12 –16 km) of driving.
• Idle for periods longer than one minute.
• Use the air conditioner or front
defroster. •
Adding certain accessories to your
vehicle like bug deflectors, rollbars,
light bars, running boards, ski racks or
luggage racks.
• Use the speed control in hilly terrain.
• Using fuel blended with alcohol.
• Drive a heavily loaded vehicle or tow a
trailer.
• Driving with the wheels out of
alignment.
DRIVING IN SPECIAL
CONDITIONS
EMERGENCY MANEUVERS
In an unavoidable emergency where you
must make a sudden sharp maneuver, turn
the steering wheel only as rapidly and as
far as required to avoid the emergency.
Apply smooth pressure to the accelerator
pedal or brake pedal as needed. Avoid
abrupt steering, acceleration and braking
changes. Abrupt changes could increase
the risk of vehicle roll over, loss of vehicle
control and personal injury. If possible, use
any available road surfaces to bring your
vehicle under control.
FLOOR MATS WARNING:
Use a floor mat
designed to fit the footwell of your
vehicle that does not obstruct the pedal
area. Failure to follow this instruction
could result in the loss of control of your
vehicle, personal injury or death. WARNING:
Pedals that cannot
move freely can cause loss of vehicle
control and increase the risk of serious
personal injury.
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