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Driving


Mud and water If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or brake capability may be limited. When driving through water, determine the depth; avoid water higher than the bottom of the hubs (if possible) and proceed slowly. If the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall. Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you are driving in mud. Even 4WD vehicles can lose traction in slick mud. As when you are driving over sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle. If the transmission, transfer case or front axle are submerged in water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary. Driving through deep water may damage the transmission. If the front or rear axle is submerged in water, the axle lubricant should be replaced. After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an imbalance that could damage drive components. “Tread Lightly” is an educational program designed to increase public awareness of land-use regulations and responsibilities in our nations wilderness areas. Ford Motor Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management in encouraging you to help preserve our national forest and other public and private lands by “treading lightly.” Driving on hilly or sloping terrain Although natural obstacles may make it necessary to travel diagonally up or down a hill or steep incline, you should always try to drive straight up or straight down. Avoid driving crosswise or turning on steep


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slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing traction, slipping sideways and possibly rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill, determine beforehand the route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill without seeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill without the aid of an observer. When climbing a steep slope or hill, start in a lower gear rather than downshifting to a lower gear from a higher gear once the ascent has started. This reduces strain on the engine and the possibility of stalling. If you do stall out, do not try to turn around because you might roll over. It is better to back down to a safe location. Apply just enough power to the wheels to climb the hill. Too much power will cause the tires to slip, spin or lose traction, resulting in loss of vehicle control. Descend a hill in the same gear you would use to climb up the hill to avoid excessive brake application and brake overheating. Do not descend in neutral; instead, disengage overdrive or manually shift to a lower gear. When descending a steep hill, avoid sudden hard braking as you could lose control. When you brake hard, the front wheels can’t turn and if they aren’t turning, you won’t be able to steer. The front wheels have to be turning in order to steer the vehicle. Rapid pumping of the brake pedal will help you slow the vehicle and still maintain steering control. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, apply the brakes steadily. Do not “pump” the brakes. Driving on snow and ice 4WD vehicles have advantages over 2WD vehicles in snow and ice but can skid like any other vehicle. Should you start to slide while driving on snowy or icy roads, turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide until you regain control.


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Avoid sudden applications of power and quick changes of direction on snow and ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and steadily when starting from a full stop. Avoid sudden braking as well. Although a 4WD vehicle may accelerate better than a two-wheel drive vehicle in snow and ice, it won’t stop any faster, because as in other vehicles, braking occurs at all four wheels. Do not become overconfident as to road conditions. Make sure you allow sufficient distance between you and other vehicles for stopping. Drive slower than usual and consider using one of the lower gears. In emergency stopping situations, avoid locking of the wheels. Use a “squeeze” technique, push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force which allows the wheels to brake yet continue to roll so that you may steer in the direction you want to travel. If you lock the wheels, release the brake pedal and repeat the squeeze technique. If your vehicle is equipped with a Four Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), apply the brake steadily. Do not “pump” the brakes. Refer to the Brakes section of this chapter for additional information on the operation of the anti-lock brake system. Never drive with chains on the front tires of 4WD vehicles without also putting them on the rear tires. This could cause the rear to slide and swing around during braking. Tires, Replacement Requirements


Do not use a size and type of tire and wheel other than that originally provided by Ford Motor Company because it can affect


the safety and performance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, and/or serious personal injury or death.


Make sure all tires and wheels on the vehicle are of the same size, type, tread design, brand and load-carrying capacity. If you have questions regarding tire replacement, see an authorized Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer. If you nevertheless decide to equip your 4WD for off-road use with tires larger than what Ford Motor Company recommends, you should not use these tires for highway driving. If you use any tire/wheel combination not recommended by Ford Motor Company, it may adversely affect vehicle handling and could cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case failure as well as the increased risk of loss of vehicle control.


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Do not use “aftermarket lift kits” or other suspension modifications, whether or not they are used with larger tires and wheels. These “aftermarket lift kits” could adversely affect the vehicle’s handling characteristics, which could lead to loss of vehicle control or rollover and serious injury. Tires can be damaged during off-road use. For your safety, tires that are damaged should not be used for highway driving because they are more likely to blow out or fail. You should carefully observe the recommended tire inflation pressure found on the safety compliance certification label attached to the left front door lock facing or door latch post pillar. Failure to follow tire pressure recommendations can adversely affect the way your vehicle handles. Do not exceed the Ford Motor Company recommended pressure even if it is less than the maximum pressure allowed for the tire. Each day before you drive, check your tires. If one looks lower than the others, use a tire gauge to check pressure of all tires, and adjust if required. Check tire pressure with a tire gauge every few weeks (including spare). Safe operation requires tires that are neither underinflated nor a vehicle which is overloaded.


Periodically inspect the tire treads and remove stones, nails, glass or other objects that may be wedged in the tread grooves. Check for holes or cuts that may permit air leakage from the tire and make necessary repairs. Inspect the tire side walls for cuts, bruises and other damage. If internal damage to the tire is suspected, have the tire demounted and inspected in case it needs to be repaired or replaced. Maintenance and Modifications The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designed and tested to provide predictable performance whether loaded or empty and durable load carrying capability. For this reason, Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that you do not make modifications such as adding or removing parts (such as lift kits or stabilizer bars) or by using replacement parts not equivalent to the original factory equipment. Any modifications to a vehicle that raise the center of gravity can make it more likely the vehicle will roll over as a result of a loss of control.


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Ford Motor Company recommends that caution be used with any vehicle equipped with a high load or device (such as ladder racks or pickup box cover). Failure to maintain your vehicle properly may void the warranty, increase your repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilities and adversely affect driver and passenger safety. Frequent inspection of vehicle chassis components is recommended if the vehicle is subjected to heavy off-road usage.


DRIVING THROUGH WATER If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly especially if the depth is not known. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the hubs (for trucks) or the bottom of the wheel rims (for cars). Traction or brake capability may be limited and your vehicle may stall. Water may also enter your engine’s air intake and severely damage your engine. Once through the water, always dry the brakes by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as quickly as dry brakes. Driving through deep water where the transmission vent tube is submerged may allow water into the transmission and cause internal transmission damage.


VEHICLE LOADING Before loading a vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms: • Base Curb Weight: Weight of the vehicle including any standard equipment, fluids, lubricants, etc. It does not include occupants or aftermarket equipment. • Payload: Combined maximum allowable weight of cargo, occupants and optional equipment. The payload equals the gross vehicle weight rating minus base curb weight.


• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): Base curb weight plus payload • GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): Maximum allowable total weight of the base vehicle, occupants, optional equipment and cargo. The GVWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Certification Label on the driver’s door pillar.


weight.


• GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating): Carrying capacity for each axle


system. The GAWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Certification Label on the driver’s door pillar.


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towing vehicle (including occupants and cargo) and the loaded trailer.


Driving • GCW (Gross Combined Weight): The combined weight of the • GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): Maximum allowable combined weight of towing vehicle (including occupants and cargo) and the loaded trailer. • Maximum Trailer Weight Rating: Maximum weight of a trailer the


vehicle is permitted to tow. The maximum trailer weight rating is determined by subtracting the vehicle curb weight for each engine/transmission combination, any required option weight for trailer towing and the weight of the driver from the GCWR for the towing vehicle. • Maximum Trailer Weight: Maximum weight of a trailer the loaded


vehicle (including occupants and cargo) is permitted to tow. It is determined by subtracting the weight of the loaded trailer towing vehicle from the GCWR for the towing vehicle.


• Trailer Weight Range: Specified range of trailer weight from zero to


the maximum trailer weight rating.


Remember to figure in the tongue load of your loaded trailer when figuring the total weight. The Safety Certification Label, located on the driver’s door pillar, lists vehicle weight rating limitations. Before adding any additional equipment, refer to these limitations. Always ensure that the weight of occupants, cargo and equipment is within the weight limitations, including both gross vehicle weight and front and rear gross axle weight rating limits. Note: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the certification label.


Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could result in serious damage to the vehicle, loss of vehicle control, vehicle


rollover, and/or personal injury.


Do not use replacement tires with lower load carrying capacities than the originals because they may lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher limit than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.


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Special loading instructions for owners of pickup trucks and utility-type vehicles


For important information regarding safe operation of this type of vehicle, see the Preparing to drive your vehicle section in


this chapter.


Loaded vehicles may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions, such as slower speeds and increased stopping


distance, should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle.


Your vehicle can haul more cargo and people than most passenger cars. Depending upon the type and placement of the load, hauling cargo and people may raise the center of gravity of the vehicle.


Calculating the load your vehicle can carry/tow 1. Use the appropriate maximum GCWR chart (in the Trailer Towing section in this chapter) for your type of engine and rear axle ratio. 2. Weigh your vehicle without cargo. To obtain correct weights, take your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks. 3. Subtract your loaded weight from the maximum GCWR in the chart. This is the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. It must be below the maximum trailer weight shown in the chart.


TRAILER TOWING Your vehicle may tow a class I, II or III trailer provided the maximum trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listed for your engine and rear axle ratio on the following charts. Your vehicle’s load capacity is designated by weight, not by volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading a vehicle. Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle’s engine, transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these components carefully periodically during, and after any towing operation. Exceeding the maximum GCWR could result in extensive damage to your vehicle and personal injury.


Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the certification label.


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Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in


engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.


Engine


Rear axle ratio Maximum GCWR-kg (lbs.)


Maximum trailer weight-kg (lbs.)


Regular Cab 4x2 w/automatic transmission


3.31
3.55
3.08
3.31
3.55
3.31
3.55
3.73
4.10


4077 (9000) 4530 (10000) 4530 (10000) 4763 (10500) 5209 (11500) 5443 (12000) 5897 (13000) 6124 (13500) 6803 (15000)


4.2L 4.2L 4.6L 4.6L 4.6L 5.4L 5.4L 5.4L 5.4L SuperCab/Super Crew 4x2 w/automatic transmission 4.2L 4.6L 4.6L 4.6L


4530 (10000) 4530 (10000) 4763 (10500) 5216 (11500)


2132 (4700) 2585 (5700) 907 (2000) 2812 (6200) 3261 (7200) 3447 (7600) 3900 (8600) 3992 (8800) 3991 (8800)


2495 (5500) 907 (2000) 2676 (5900)


3.55
3.08
3.31
3.55


3130 (6900)/


5.4L 5.4L


5.4L 5.4L


3.31
3.55


3.73
4.10


5443 (12000) 5897 (13000)


6124 (13500) 6803 (15000)


2994 (6600) 3311 (7300)


3765 (8300)/


3628 (8000) 3900 (8600) 3900 (8600)


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4.2L 4.2L 4.6L 4.6L 4.6L


4.2L 4.2L 4.6L 4.6L 4.6L


Engine


Rear axle ratio


Maximum


GCWR-kg (lbs.)


Driving


Maximum


trailer


weight-kg (lbs.)


Regular Cab 4x2 w/manual transmission


3.08
3.55
3.08
3.31
3.55


2944 (6500) 3538 (7800) 2944 (6500) 3265 (7200) 3538 (7800)


907 (2000) 1588 (3500) 907 (2000) 1315 (2900) 1588 (3500)


SuperCab 4x2 w/manual transmission


3.08
3.55
3.08
3.31
3.55


2944 (6500) 3538 (7800) 2944 (6500) 3265 (7200) 3538 (7800)


Maximum


907 (2000) 1497 (3300) 907 (2000) 1179 (2600) 1452 (3200)


Maximum


trailer


Engine


Rear axle


ratio/tire size -


GCWR-kg (lbs.)


cm (inches)


weight-kg (lbs.)


Regular Cab 4x4 w/automatic transmission


4.2L 4.6L 4.6L 4.6L 5.4L 5.4L 5.4L 5.4L


3.55/40.6 (16) 3.31/40.6 (16) 3.55/40.6 (16) 3.55/43.2 (17) 3.31/40.6 (16) 3.55/40.6 (16) 3.55/43.2 (17) 3.73/40.6 (16)


4536 (10000) 4763 (10500) 5216 (11500) 4990 (11000) 5443 (12000) 5897 (13000) 5670 (12500) 6124 (13500)


2449 (5400) 2630 (5800) 3084 (6800) 2858 (6300) 3266 (7200) 3720 (8200) 3493 (7700) 3810 (8400)


SuperCab/Super Crew 4x4 w/automatic transmission 2540 (5600) 2994 (6600)/


3.31/40.6 (16) 3.55/40.6 (16)


4763 (10500) 5216 (11500)


4.6L 4.6L


4.6L


3.55/43.2 (17)


4990 (11000)


2767 (6100)/


2812 (6200)


2585 (5700)


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5.4L 5.4L


5.4L


5.4L


Driving


Engine


Rear axle


Maximum


ratio/tire size -


GCWR-kg (lbs.)


cm (inches) 3.31/40.6 (16) 3.55/40.6 (16)


5443 (12000) 5897 (13000)


Maximum


trailer


weight-kg (lbs.)


3175 (7000)


3628 (8000)/


3447 (7600)


3.55/43.2 (17)


5670 (12500)


3401 (7500)/


3.73/40.6 (16)


6124 (13500)


3221 (7100) 3719 (8200)


Engine


Rear axle ratio Maximum GCWR


Maximum


- kg (lbs.)


trailer weight -


kg (lbs.)


4.2L 4.2L 4.6L 4.6L


4.6L 4.6L


Regular Cab 4x4 w/manual transmission


3.31
3.55
3.31
3.55


3265 (7200) 3538 (7800) 3265 (7200) 3538 (7800)


1179 (2600) 1452 (3200) 1134 (2500) 1406 (3100)


SuperCab 4x4 w/manual transmission


3.31
3.55


3265 (7200) 3533 (7800)


1043 (2300) 1315 (2900)


Engine


Harley-Davidson F-150 4x2 w/automatic transmission Maximum trailer weight-kg (lbs.)


Rear axle ratio Maximum GCWR-kg (lbs.)


5.4L


Supercharged


3.73


4536 (10000)


2041 (4500)


Trailer frontal area considerations: • Not to exceed towing vehicle frontal area without Class III trailer • Not to exceed 5.52 square meters (60 square feet) with Class III


towing package


trailer towing package


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Preparing to tow Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. See your dealer or a reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance.


Hitches Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle’s bumper or attach to the axle. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10%–15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.


Load equalizing hitch When hooking up a trailer using a load equalizing hitch, always use the following procedure: 1. Park the unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and all doors closed, allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes so that it can level. 2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers at the center of the vehicle. 3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and adjust the hitch equalizers so that the front bumper height is within 0–13 mm (0.5 in) of the reference point. After proper adjustment, the rear bumper should be no higher than in Step 2. Note: Adjusting an equalizing hitch so the rear bumper of the vehicle is higher than it was unloaded will defeat the function of the load equalizing hitch and may cause unpredictable handling.


Safety chains Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners. If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency gives to you. Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.


Trailer brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer’s specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations.


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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 your trailer lamps conform to local and Federal regulations. See your dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking up trailer lamps. Using a step bumper (if equipped) The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and only requires a ball with a 25.4 mm (one inch) shank diameter. The bumper has a 2,270
kg (5,000 lb.) trailer weight and 227 kg (500 lb.) tongue weight capacity. If it is necessary to relocate the trailer hitch ball position, a frame-mounted trailer hitch must be installed. 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 Understanding the positions of the 4–speed automatic transmission section in this 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. 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.


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weight.


• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached. • The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer • After you have traveled 80 km (50 miles), thoroughly check your • To aid in engine/transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot weather while stopped in traffic, place the gearshift lever in P (Park) (automatic transmission) or N (Neutral) (manual transmissions). • Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must


hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.


park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer’s wheels.


Launching or retrieving a boat Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer into the water. Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the trailer is removed 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 • do not allow waves to break higher than 15 cm (6 inches) above the


the rear bumper.


bottom edge of the rear bumper.


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 any time the axle has been submerged in water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or repair required.


RECREATIONAL TOWING (ALL WHEELS ON THE GROUND) An example of recreational towing would be towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. Follow these guidelines if you have the need for recreational towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not damaged. 2WD vehicles: • Place the transmission in N (Neutral) • Maximum speed is 56 km (35 mph) • Maximum distance is 80 km (50 miles)


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If a distance of 80 km (50 miles) or a speed of 56 km (35 mph) must be exceeded, the drive shaft will have to be removed before the vehicle is towed. Ford recommends the driveshaft be removed/installed only by a qualified technician. See your local dealer for driveshaft removal/installation. Improper removal/installation of the driveshaft can cause transmission fluid loss, damage to the driveshaft and internal transmission components. 4WD vehicles electronic shift transfer case: 4x4 vehicles with electronic shift on the fly cannot be towed with any wheels on the ground.


models)


SNOWPLOWING Ford recommends the following specifications for low speed, personal use snow removal: • F-150 4x4 (except F-150 Supercrew, Lightning and Harley-Davidson • 5.4L engine • Heavy-duty service package • Super engine cooling • Heavy-duty front suspension package • Automatic transmission with auxiliary automatic transmission fluid • All-terrain tires • Limited slip and optional axle ratio. Do not install a snowplow and plow with your vehicle until it has been driven at least 800 km (500 miles).


cooling


Installing the snowplow Read the following instructions before installing a snowplow: • Front GAWR must not exceed 63% of the GVW. Add ballast weight to the back of the vehicle, if necessary. Refer to the Safety Compliance Certification Label to find your vehicle’s front GAWR. • The Front Axle Accessory Reserve Capacity and the TARC listed on the bottom right of the Safety Compliance Certification Label will determine whether or not the addition of a snowplow will overload your vehicle.


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Driving • The weight of the snowplow and supporting components distributed to


the front axle must not exceed the Front Axle Accessory Reserve Capacity. • The total weight of the snowplow and aftermarket equipment must • The weight of the installed snowplow and aftermarket equipment must


not exceed the TARC.


not load the vehicle beyond the GAWR (front/rear) and GVWR listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. • The total weight of the snowplow and aftermarket equipment must be


considered part of the payload and must not exceed the GCWR for towing. • Federal and most local regulations require additional exterior lamps for snowplow-equipped vehicles. Consult your dealer for additional information.


• Tires have their maximum inflation pressure and associated load rating


imprinted on the tire sidewall. This pressure may or may not be the same as that shown as recommended on the vehicle. The vehicle operator may have to adjust the tire inflation pressure to accommodate the snowplow and payload. Consult your dealer or equipment installer for help with proper inflation pressures.


• Federal and some local regulations require additional exterior lamps for snowplow-equipped vehicles. Consult your dealer for additional information. • After installing a snowplow to the vehicle, ensure the vehicle’s front toe alignment and front ride height are within specification (reset if required). These specifications are located in the vehicle’s Workshop Manual.


Note: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the certification label.


Removing snowplow After removing a snowplow from the vehicle, ensure the vehicle’s front toe alignment and front ride height are within specification (reset if required).


Snowplowing with your air bag equipped vehicle Your vehicle is equipped with a driver and passenger air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) The SRS is designed to activate in certain frontal and offset frontal collisions when the vehicle sustains sufficient longitudinal deceleration.


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Careless or high speed driving while plowing snow which results in sufficient vehicle decelerations can deploy the air bag. Such driving also increases the risk of accidents.


All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is


provided.


Never remove or defeat the “tripping mechanisms” designed into the snow removal equipment by its manufacturer. Doing so may cause damage to the vehicle and the snow removal equipment as well as possible air bag deployment.


Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or


Lincoln Mercury dealer.


Additional equipment such as snowplow equipment may effect the performance of the air bag sensors increasing the risk of


injury. Please refer to the Body Builders Layout Book for instructions about the appropriate installation of additional equipment.


Engine temperature while plowing When driving with a plow, your engine may run at a higher temperature than normal because the attached snowplow blade will restrict airflow to the radiator. If you are driving more than 24 km (15 miles) at temperatures above freezing, angle the plow blade either full left or full right to provide maximum airflow to the radiator. If you are driving less than 24 km (15 miles) at speeds up to 64 km/h (40 mph) in cold weather, you will not need to worry about blade position to provide maximum airflow. Transmission operation while plowing • Shift transfer case to 4L (4WD Low) when plowing in small areas at • Shift transfer case to 4H (4WD High) when plowing larger areas or • Do not shift the transmission from a forward gear to R (Reverse) until


light snow at higher speeds. Do not exceed 24 km/h (15 mph).


speeds below 8 km/h (5 mph).


the engine is at idle and the wheels are stopped.


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• If the vehicle is stuck, shift the transmission in a steady motion


between forward and reverse gears. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes. The transmission and tires may be damaged or the engine can overheat.


Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at operating temperature. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a minute. The transmission and tires may be damaged or the engine may overheat.


Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (55 km/h). The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.


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Roadside Emergencies


Roadside Emergencies


GETTING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern, Ford Motor Company offers a complimentary roadside assistance program. This program is separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The service is available: • 24–hours, seven days a week • for the New Vehicle Limited Warranty period of three years or 60,000 km (36,000 miles), whichever occurs first on Ford and Mercury vehicles, and four years or 80,000 km (50,000 miles) on Lincoln vehicles.


Roadside assistance will cover: • changing a flat tire • jump-starts • lock-out assistance • limited fuel delivery • towing of your disabled vehicle to the nearest Ford Motor Company dealership, or your selling dealer if within 56.3 km (35 miles) of the nearest Ford Motor Company dealership (one tow per disablement). Even non-warranty related tows, like accidents or getting stuck in the mud or snow, are covered (some exclusions apply, such as impound towing or repossession).


Canadian customers refer to your Owner Information Guide for information on: • coverage period • exact fuel amounts • towing of your disabled vehicle • emergency travel expense reimbursement • travel planning benefits USING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE Complete the roadside assistance identification card and place it in your wallet for quick reference. In the United States, this card is found in the Owner Guide portfolio in the glove compartment in Ford vehicles and is mailed to you if you own a Mercury or Lincoln. In Canada, the card is found in the Owner Information Guide in the glove compartment. U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicle customers who require roadside assistance, call 1–800–241–3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1–800–521–4140.


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Roadside Emergencies


Canadian customers who require roadside assistance, call 1–800–665–2006. If you need to arrange roadside assistance for yourself, Ford Motor Company will reimburse a reasonable amount. To obtain reimbursement information, U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicles customers call 1-800-241-3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1–800–521–4140. Canadian customers who need to obtain reimbursement information, call 1–800–665–2006.


ROADSIDE COVERAGE BEYOND BASIC WARRANTY In the United States, you may purchase additional roadside assistance coverage beyond this period through the Ford Auto Club by contacting your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. Similarly in Canada, for uninterrupted Roadside Assistance coverage, you may purchase extended coverage prior to your Basic Warranty’s Roadside Assistance expiring. For more information and enrollment, contact 1–877–294–2582 or visit our website at www.ford.ca.


HAZARD FLASHER The hazard flasher is located on the steering column, just behind the steering wheel. The hazard flashers will operate when the ignition is in any position. Push in the flasher control and all front and rear direction signals will flash. Press the flasher control again to turn them off. Use it when your vehicle is disabled and is creating a safety hazard for other motorists. Note: With extended use, the flasher may run down your battery.


FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH FUEL RESET This device stops the electric fuel pump from sending fuel to the engine when your vehicle has had a substantial jolt. After an accident, if the engine cranks but does not start, this switch may have been activated.


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This switch is located in the front passenger’s footwell, by the kick panel access cover. To reset the switch: 1. Turn the ignition OFF. 2. Check the fuel system for leaks. 3. If no leaks are apparent, reset the switch by pushing in on the reset button. 4. Turn the ignition ON. 5. Wait a few seconds and return the key to OFF. 6. Make another check of leaks.


FUSES AND RELAYS


Fuses If electrical components in the vehicle are not working, a fuse may have blown. Blown fuses are identified by a broken wire within the fuse. Check the appropriate fuses before replacing any electrical components. Note: Always replace a fuse with one that has the specified amperage rating. Using a fuse with a higher amperage rating can cause severe wire damage and could start a fire.


15


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Standard fuse amperage rating and color


COLOR


Fuse rating


2A 3A 4A 5A 7.5A 10A 15A 20A 25A 30A 40A 50A 60A 70A 80A


Mini fuses


Grey Violet Pink Tan


Brown


Red Blue Yellow Natural Green


— — — — —


Standard


fuses


Grey Violet Pink Tan


Brown


Red Blue Yellow Natural Green


— — — — —


Maxi fuses


— — — — — — —


Yellow



Green Orange


Red Blue Tan


Natural


Cartridge


maxi fuses


— — — — — — — Blue — Pink Green Red — — —


Fuse link cartridge


— — — — — — — Blue — Pink Green Red Yellow Brown Black


Passenger compartment fuse panel The fuse panel is located below and to the left of the steering wheel by the brake pedal. Remove the panel cover to access the fuses. To remove a fuse use the fuse puller tool provided on the fuse panel cover.


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The fuses are coded as follows.


Fuse/Relay Location


Fuse Amp


Rating


Passenger Compartment Fuse


Panel Description


180


15A 5A


20A 5A


15A


5A


Audio Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Cluster Cigar lighter, Data link connector Power mirror switch, Mirror turn signal relays Speed control module, Reverse lamp, Climate mode switch, Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) relay, Digital Transmission Range (DTR) sensor Cluster, Brake shift interlock solenoid, GEM


2003 F150 (f12) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Fuse/Relay Location


Fuse Amp


Rating


10
11


12
13


14


15


16


17
18


19
20


21


22


— 5A


— — 30A


— 20A


15A


5A


20A


— 5A


— 5A


15A


10A


Roadside Emergencies


Passenger Compartment Fuse


Panel Description


Not used Radio, Remote entry module, GEM, In-vehicle entertainment system (SuperCrew only) Not used Not used Front washer pump relay, Wiper run/park relay, Wiper HI/LO relay, Windshield wiper motor Not used Stop lamp switch (Lamps), Turn/Hazard flasher Battery saver relay, Interior lamp relay Stop lamp switch (speed control, brake shift interlock), GEM, Rear Anti-lock Brake System (RABS) module Headlamps (hi beams), Cluster (hi beam indicator) Not used Instrument illumination (dimmer switch power) Not used Audio, GEM, PCM, Transmission range sensor DTR sensor, Clutch switch, Starter relay, I/P fuse 20
Air bag module, Passenger air bag deactivation module


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Fuse/Relay Location


23


Fuse Amp


Rating


10A


24
25
26
27


28
29


30


31


Relay 1
Relay 2
Relay 3
Relay 4
Relay 5


10A 10A 10A 5A


10A 5A


30A


— — — — — —


Passenger Compartment Fuse


Panel Description


Trailer tow battery Charge relay, Turn/Hazard flasher, 4x4
solenoids, 4x4 relays, Overhead console, 4–Wheel Anti-lock Brake System (4WABS) module, EC mirror, Heated seats Function selector switch assembly Heated mirrors Right-hand low beam headlamp Foglamp relay and foglamp indicator, Main light switch (upstream) Left-hand low beam headlamp Autolamp module, Transmission overdrive control switch, Central security module, Beltminder Passive Anti-theft transceiver, Cluster, Ignition coils, PCM relay, Coil on plugs, Radio noise capacitor, ECC diode Not used Interior lamp relay Battery saver relay Not used One-touch down window relay Accessory delay relay


Power distribution box The power distribution box is located in the engine compartment. The power distribution box contains high-current fuses that protect your vehicle’s main electrical systems from overloads.


Always disconnect the battery before servicing high current fuses.


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Always replace the cover to the power distribution box before reconnecting the battery or refilling fluid reservoirs If the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, refer to the Battery section of the Maintenance and specifications chapter.


The high-current fuses are coded as follows.


Fuse/Relay Location

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