Owning and operating a truck, crossover, or SUV model comes with many avenues for flexibility and versatility. One of the most sought-after features is the vehicle’s ability to tow and haul, and it’s paramount you know the limits for both productivity and safety purposes. The professionals at your local Ford dealership want you to become aware of some of these factors that determine your vehicle’s towing and hauling capabilities. If you’re ready to buy a Ford and are wondering, “How much can my vehicle tow?”, read below, and then visit Keystone Ford and we can help you find the right truck, crossover, or SUV.
Know Your Specs
When you’re researching your next Ford vehicle that will ultimately land in a work site or take part in daily, heavy-duty tasks, the disclosed specifications are a good place to begin. The expert sales staff at your local Ford dealership recommends you look for the following statistics on your vehicle’s specification sheet:
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Towing capacity: the weight a vehicle can tow; engine power, transmission, and drivetrain are among the factors that determine the final towing capacity.
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Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: the maximum weight the vehicle can tow when fully loaded.
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Gross Combination Weight Rating: the maximum combined weight of the vehicle, including passengers, fuel, etc.
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Gross Trailer Weight: the maximum combined weight of trailer and cargo.
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Hitch Type: arrives in both weight-carrying and weight-distributing versions. Please speak to your local Ford dealership for more information on the type of hitch on your vehicle.
Double-Check When Hitching and Using A Trailer
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The hitch and the ball should always couple in a snug fit, and there should be no wiggle room once the two are paired. Always insert and secure the locking pin in place to ensure the hitch and trailer don’t decouple.
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If the chains between the vehicle and trailer are crossed, it creates another safeguard where the trailer will fall onto the chains instead of the road.
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Ensure the trailer is evenly loaded for optimum balance and handling; approximately 60 percent of the weight of on the trailer should be toward the front, and 40 percent in the rear.
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Before heading out, perform a pre-check of all connections, including tire pressure on each wheel, and conduct a light test to verify the lights for brakes, turn signals, and hazards are all functioning.
Tips and Tricks When Towing and Hauling
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Before you tow, drive your new Ford vehicle at least 1,000 miles without a trailer attached.
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When the vehicle is loaded and/or pulling, always be extra cautious when merging into traffic and passing other vehicles. Give yourself and other drivers plenty of time and space.
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Always allow yourself a safe amount of space when turning, and make smooth, wide turns for the trailer to clear the space.
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Always signal your intentions by using proper indicator lights.
Visit Your Local Ford Dealership
Now that you’re armed with much of the knowledge necessary to make an educated selection of your next Ford truck, crossover, or SUV model along with its towing capabilities, it’s time to sit down with the sales team at your local Ford dealership and see which vehicle is the right one for you. Whether it’s a labor-inclined Ford F-150, a power- and feature-laden Ford Explorer, or even something on the compact side like a Ford Escape, the inventory at Keystone Ford is your next stop to satiate all your towing and hauling needs. Contact us today or visit the showroom at your local Ford dealership for more information!