towing FORD F250 2013 Owner's Manual

Shorter pick-up boxes, such as a 612-foot box on the F-250 and F-350,
provide less clearance between the cab and the fifth-wheel and
gooseneck trailer compared to longer box pick-ups, such as an 8–foot
box on the F-250 and F-350. When selecting a trailer and tow vehicle, it
is critical to check that this combination provides clearance between the
front of the trailer and tow vehicle for turns up to 90 degrees. Failure to
follow this recommendation could result in the trailer contacting the cab
of the tow vehicle during tight turns that are typical during low-speed
parking and turning maneuvers. This contact could result in damage to
the trailer and tow vehicle.
To find the maximum trailer weight allowed for your vehicle, consult an
authorized dealer or see theRV & Trailer Towing Guideprovided by an
authorized dealer.
Safety Chains
Note:Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.
Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of your vehicle hitch.
To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer
tongue and allow enough slack for turning tight corners. Do not allow the
chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
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.
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.
Separate functioning brake systems are required for safe control
of towed vehicles and trailers weighing more than 1500 pounds
(680 kilograms) when loaded.
258Towing
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (If Equipped)
WARNING:The Ford TBC has been verified to be compatible with
trailers having electric-actuated drum brakes (one to four axles)
and some electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) brakes. It will not activate
hydraulic surge-style trailer brakes. It is the responsibility of the customer
to ensure that the trailer brakes are adjusted appropriately, functioning
normally and all electric connections are properly made. Failure to do so
may result in loss of vehicle control, crash or serious injury.
When used properly, the trailer brake controller assists in smooth
and effective trailer braking by powering the trailer’s electric or
electric-over-hydraulic brakes with a proportional output based on the
towing vehicle’s brake pressure.
Ford has tested the trailer brake controller to be compatible with several
major brands of electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes. Contact an
authorized dealer for information on which brands you can use.
The controller user interface consists of the following:
A.+ and - (Gain adjustment buttons):Pressing these buttons adjusts
the controller’s power output to the trailer brakes in 0.5 increments.
You can increase the gain setting to 10.0 (maximum trailer braking) or
decrease it to 0 (no trailer braking). Pressing and holding a button raises
or lowers the setting continuously. The gain setting displays in the
message center as follows: TBC GAIN = XX.X.
The controller shows gain setting, output bar graph, and trailer
connectivity status in the information display. They appear in the
information display as follows:
•TBC GAIN = XX.X NO TRAILER:Shows the current gain setting
during a given ignition cycle and when adjusting the gain. This also
displays if you use the manual control lever or make gain adjustments
with no trailer connected.
B
A
Towing259
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

•TBC GAIN = XX.X OUTPUT=//////:Displays when you push
your vehicle’s brake pedal, or when you use the manual control. Bar
indicators illuminate in the information display to indicate the amount
of power going to the trailer brakes relative to the brake pedal or
manual control input. One bar indicates the least amount of output;
six bars indicate maximum output.
•TRAILER CONNECTED:Displays when the system senses a
correct trailer wiring connection (a trailer with electric trailer brakes)
during a given ignition cycle.
•TRAILER DISCONNECTED:Displays, accompanied by a single
audible chime, when the system senses a trailer connection and then
a disconnection, either intentional or unintentional, during a given
ignition cycle. It also displays if a truck or trailer-wiring fault occurs
causing the trailer to appear disconnected. This message can also
display if you use the manual control lever without a trailer
connected.
B.Manual control lever:Slide the control lever to the left to turn
on the trailer’s electric brakes independent of the tow vehicle’s brakes.
See the followingProcedure for adjusting gainsection for instructions
on proper use of this feature. If you use the manual control while the
brake is also applied, the greater of the two inputs determines the power
sent to the trailer brakes.
•Stop lamps:Using the manual control lever illuminates both the
trailer brake lamps and your vehicle brake lamps except the center
high-mount stop lamp, if you make the proper electrical connection
to the trailer. Pressing your vehicle brake pedal also illuminates both
trailer and vehicle brake lamps.
Procedure for Adjusting Gain
Note:Only perform this procedure in a traffic-free environment at
speeds of approximately 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h).
The gain setting sets the trailer brake controller for the specific towing
condition. You should change the setting as towing conditions change.
Changes to towing conditions include trailer load, vehicle load, road
conditions and weather.
260Towing
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

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.
1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working condition,
functioning normally and properly adjusted. See your trailer dealer if
necessary.
2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical connections according to
the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.
3. When you plug in a trailer with electric or electric-over-hydraulic
brakes,TRAILER CONNECTEDappears in the information display.
4. Use the gain adjustment (+ and -) buttons to increase or decrease
the gain setting to the desired starting point. A gain setting of 6.0 is a
good starting point for heavier loads.
5. In a traffic-free environment, tow the trailer on a dry, level surface at
a speed of 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h) and squeeze the manual control
lever completely.
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.
Explanation of Information Display Warning Messages
Note:An authorized dealer can diagnose the trailer brake controller to
determine exactly which trailer fault has occurred. However, your Ford
warranty doesnotcover this diagnosis if the fault is with the trailer.
TRAILER BRAKE MODULE FAULT:Displays in response to faults
sensed by the trailer brake controller, accompanied by a single chime.
If this message appears, contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible
for diagnosis and repair. The controller may still function, but
performance may be degraded.
WIRING FAULT ON TRAILER:Displays when there is a short circuit
on the electric brake output wire. If theWIRING FAULT ON TRAILER
message displays, accompanied by a single chime, with no trailer
connected, the problem is with your vehicle wiring between the trailer
brake controller and the 7–pin connector at the bumper. If the message
only displays with a trailer connected, the problem is with the trailer
wiring. Consult your trailer dealer for assistance. This can be a short to
ground (such as a chaffed wire), short to voltage (such as a pulled pin
on trailer emergency breakaway battery) or the trailer brakes may be
drawing too much current.
Towing261
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

Points to Remember
Note:Do not attempt removal of the trailer brake controller without
consulting theWorkshop Manual.Damage to the unit may result.
•Adjust gain setting before using the trailer brake controller for the
first time.
•Adjust gain setting, using the procedure above, whenever road,
weather and trailer or vehicle loading conditions change from when
the gain was initially set.
•Only use the manual control lever for proper adjustment of the gain
during trailer setup. Misuse, such as application during trailer sway,
could cause instability of trailer or tow vehicle.
•Avoid towing in adverse weather conditions. The trailer brake
controller does not provide anti-lock control of the trailer wheels.
Trailer wheels can lock up on slippery surfaces, resulting in reduced
stability of trailer and tow vehicle.
•The trailer brake controller is equipped with a feature that reduces
output at vehicle speeds below 11 mph (18 km/h) so 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.
•The controller interacts with the brake control system and powertrain
control system of your vehicle to provide the best performance on
different road conditions.
•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.
•When you turn the engine off, the controller output is disabled and
the display and module shut down. The controller module and display
turn on when you turn the ignition on.
•The trailer brake controller is only a factory-installed or
dealer-installed item. Ford is not responsible for warranty or
performance of the controller due to misuse or customer installation.
262Towing
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

Trailer Lamps
WARNING:Never connect any trailer lamp wiring to the
vehicle’s tail lamp wiring; this may damage the electrical system
resulting in a fire. Contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible for
assistance in proper trailer tow wiring installation. Additional electrical
equipment may be required.
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working.
Using a Step Bumper (If Equipped)
The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and only requires a
ball with a one-inch (25.4 millimeter) shank diameter. The bumper has a
5000-pound (2268 kilogram) trailer weight and a 500-pound (227 kilogram)
tongue weight capacity.
If it is necessary to relocate the hitch ball position, you must install a
frame-mounted trailer hitch.
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing up to get the feel of your
vehicle-trailer combination before starting on a trip. When turning,
make wider turns so the trailer wheels clear curbs and other obstacles.
When Towing a Trailer
•Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles
(800 kilometers).
•Do not make full-throttle starts.
•Check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts
thoroughly after you have traveled 50 miles (80 kilometers).
•When stopped in congested or heavy traffic during hot weather, place
the gearshift in positionPto 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 automatically when you are towing
on long, steep grades.
•Shift to a lower gear when driving down a long or steep hill. Do not
apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less
effective.
Towing263
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

•If your transmission is equipped with the Tow/Haul feature, use this
when towing. This provides engine braking and helps eliminate
excessive transmission shifting for optimum fuel economy and
transmission cooling.
•If your vehicle is equipped with AdvanceTrac™ with RSC, this system
may turn on during typical cornering maneuvers with a heavily loaded
trailer. This is normal. Turning the corner at a slower speed while
towing may reduce this tendency.
•If you are towing a trailer frequently in hot weather, hilly conditions,
at the gross combined weight rating (or any combination of these
factors), consider refilling your rear axle with synthetic gear lubricant
(if the axle is not already filled with it). See theCapacities and
Specificationschapter for the lubricant specification.
•Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached. Anticipate
stops and brake gradually.
•Avoid parking on a grade. However, if you must park on a grade:
1. Turn the steering wheel to point your vehicle tires away from
traffic flow.
2. Set your vehicle parking brake.
3. Place the automatic transmission in positionP.
4. Place wheel chocks in front and back of the trailer wheels.
(Chocks not included with vehicle.)
Your vehicle may be equipped with a temporary or conventional spare
tire. A “temporary” spare tire is different in size (diameter or width),
tread-type (All-Season or All-Terrain) 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.
Launching or Retrieving a Boat or Personal Watercraft (PWC)
Note:Disconnect the wiring to the trailerbeforebacking the trailer into
the water.
Note:Reconnect the wiring to the trailerafterremoving the trailer from
the water.
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 inches (15 centimeters)
above the bottom edge of the rear bumper.
264Towing
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components:
•Causing internal damage to the components.
•Affecting driveability, emissions, and reliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant anytime the rear axle submerges in
water. Water may have contaminated the rear axle lubricant, which does
not normally require checking or changing unless it is leaking or other
axle repair is required.
Recovery Hooks
WARNING:Using recovery hooks is dangerous and should only
be done by a person familiar with proper vehicle recovery safety
practices. Improper use of recovery hooks may cause hook failure and/or
separation from the vehicle and could result in serious injury or death.
WARNING:Always slowly remove the slack from the recovery
strap prior to pulling. Failure to do so can introduce significantly
higher loads which can cause the recovery hooks to break off, or the
recovery strap to fail which can cause serious injury or death.
WARNING:Never link two straps together with a clevis pin.
These heavy metal objects could become projectiles if the strap
breaks and can cause serious injury or death.
Your vehicle comes equipped with frame-mounted front recovery hooks.
These hooks should never have a load applied to them greater than the
gross vehicle weight rating of your vehicle.
Before using recovery hooks:
•Make sure all attaching points are secure and capable of withstanding
the applied load.
•Never use chains, cables or tow straps with metal hook ends.
•Only use recovery straps that have a minimum breaking strength two
to three times the gross vehicle weight of the stuck vehicle.
•Make sure the recovery strap is in good condition and free of visible
cuts, tears or damage.
•Use a damper device such as a tarp, heavy blanket or piece of carpet
draped over the recovery strap to help absorb the energy in the event
the strap breaks.
Towing265
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

•Make sure the stuck vehicle is not loaded heavier than its gross
vehicle weight rating specified on the certification label.
•Always align the tow vehicle and stuck vehicle in a straight line
(within 10 degrees).
•Keep bystanders to thesidesof the vehicle, at a distance of at least
twice the length of the recovery strap. This helps avoid injury from
the hazard of a recovery hook or strap breaking, or a vehicle lurching
into their path.
TRANSPORTING THE VEHICLE
If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towing
service or, if you are a member of a roadside assistance program, your
roadside assistance service provider.
266Towing
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)

We recommend the use of a wheel lift and dollies or flatbed equipment
to tow your vehicle. Do not tow with a slingbelt. Ford Motor Company
has not approved a slingbelt towing procedure. Vehicle damage may
occur if towed incorrectly, or by any other means.
Ford Motor Company produces a towing manual for all authorized tow
truck operators. Have your tow truck operator refer to this manual for
proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle.
It is acceptable to have your two-wheel drive vehicle towed with the
front wheels on the ground (without dollies) and the rear wheels off the
ground.
We recommend towing a four-wheel drive vehicle with all wheels off the
ground, such as using a wheel lift and dollies or flatbed equipment.
However, it is acceptable to use a wheel lift to raise the rear of your
vehicle so long as, depending on vehicle configuration, you perform the
following before towing:
•If your vehicle is equipped with a manual-shift transfer case, make
sure the front wheel hub locks are in theFREEposition before
towing.
•If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer
case, make sure you turn the four-wheel drive control to the2L
position before towing.
Note:Towing an electronic shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive vehicle with
the front wheels on the ground without disengaging the front hubs may
cause damage to the automatic transmission.
Note:Towing a two-wheel drive vehicle or an electronic shift-on-the-fly
four-wheel drive vehicle with the rear wheels on the ground for more
than 50 miles (80 km) or faster than 35 mph (56 km/h) may cause
damage to the automatic transmission.
Note:Using wheel lift equipment to tow a dual rear wheel vehicle
requires removing an outer rear wheel before towing.
Towing267
2013 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA(fus)