Introduction
2
Notice To Utility Vehicle and Truck Owners
3
Vehicle Characteristics
4
Driving On Roadways
6
Driving Off-Road
9
Inspecting and Inflating Your Tires
13
Tire Replacement Requirements
15
Loading Your Vehicle
16
Trailer Towing
19
Maintenance and Modifications
20
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Table of contents
1
VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS
4WD and AWD Systems
A vehicle equipped with AWD or 4WD (when you select the 4WD mode)
has the ability to use all four wheels to power itself. This increases
traction which may enable you to safely drive over terrain and road
conditions that a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot.
Power is supplied to all four wheels
through a transfer case or power
transfer unit. 4WD vehicles allow
you to select different drive modes
as necessary. Information on shifting
procedures and maintenance can be
found in your ªOwner's Guide.º You
should become thoroughly familiar
with this information before you operate your vehicle.
On some 4WD models, the initial shift from two-wheel drive to 4WD
while the vehicle is moving can cause a momentary clunk and ratcheting
sound. These sounds are normal as the front drivetrain comes up to
speed and is not cause for concern.
Do not become overconfident in the ability of 4WD and AWD
vehicles. Although a 4WD or AWD vehicle may accelerate better
than two-wheel drive vehicle in low traction situations, it won't stop
any faster than two-wheel drive vehicles. Always drive at a safe speed.
Vehicle Characteristics
Vehicle Characteristics
4
MAINTENANCE AND MODIFICATIONS
The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been carefully
designed to provide safe, predictable performance and durable load
carrying capability. Do not make modifications such as adding or
removing parts (such as lift kits or stabilizer bars) or using replacement
parts not equivalent to the original factory equipment because these
modifications can affect the safety of your vehicle.
Do not use ªaftermarket lift kitsº or other suspension
modifications. ªAftermarket lift kitsº could adversely affect the
vehicle's handling characteristics, which could result in an increased
risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and
death.
Any modifications to a vehicle that raise the center of gravity can make
it easier to induce vehicle rollover. Ford recommends that you take extra
precautions, such as driving at lower speeds, avoiding abrupt steering
changes and allowing for increased stopping distance, for any vehicle
equipped with a high load (for example, roof racks).
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 and powertrain components is recommended if the
vehicle is subjected to heavy off-road usage. Refer to the ªOwner's
Guideº and ªService Guideº for proper maintenance instructions and
schedules.
Maintenance and Modifications
Maintenance and Modifications
20
