GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
Loaded
Trailer Weight
- lb. (kg)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer - ft
2
(m2)
E-350 Extended/RV Van (9500 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 7200 (3266) 60 (5.52)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7200 (3266) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 3.73 15000 (6804) 9000 (4082) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Extended Van (Crew) (9500 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 7000 (3175) 60 (5.52)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7000 (3175) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 3.73 15000 (6804) 8800 (3992) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Regular Wagon (11–passenger) (8800 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 6700 (3039) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Regular Wagon (12–passenger) (8800 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 6700 (3039) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Extended Wagon (11–passenger) (9300 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 6500 (2948) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Extended Wagon (14/15–passenger) (9100 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 6400 (2903) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Cutaway (138” wheelbase, single rear wheel) (9600
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8000 (3629) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Extended Cutaway (138” wheelbase, single rear wheel)
(9600 GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 10600 (4808) 5700 (2585) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Cutaway (138” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (10000
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7800 (3538) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
153
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
Loaded
Trailer Weight
- lb. (kg)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer - ft
2
(m2)
E-350 Cutaway (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (10000
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7800 (3538) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Cutaway (138” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (11500
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7800 (3538) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Cutaway (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (11500
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7700 (3493) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Cutaway (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (12500
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7800 (3538) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Cutaway (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (10000
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7800 (3538) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Cutaway (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (12500
GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 7800 (3538) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (138” wheelbase, single rear wheel)
(9000 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 8600 (3901) 60 (5.52)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8600 (3901) 60 (5.52)
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
154
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
Loaded
Trailer Weight
- lb. (kg)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer - ft
2
(m2)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (158” wheelbase, single rear wheel)
(9600 GVWR)
5.4L 3.73 13000 (5897) 8600 (3901) 60 (5.52)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8600 (3901) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (138” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(10000 GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8400 (3810) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (138” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(11500 GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8400 (3810) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(10000 GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8500 (3855) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(12500 GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8300 (3765) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(10000 GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8300 (3765) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-350 Stripped Chassis (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(12500 GVWR)
5.4L 4.10 13000 (5897) 8300 (3765) 60 (5.52)
6.8L 4.10 18500 (8391) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
155
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
Loaded
Trailer Weight
- lb. (kg)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer - ft
2
(m2)
E-450 Cutaway (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (14050
GVWR)
5.4L 4.56 14050 (6373) 8500 (3855) 60 (5.52)
E-450 Cutaway (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (14050
GVWR)
5.4L 4.56 14050 (6373) 8400 (3810) 60 (5.52)
E-450 Cutaway (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (14500
GVWR)
6.8L 4.56 20000 (9072) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-450 Cutaway (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel) (14500
GVWR)
6.8L 4.56 20000 (9072) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-450 Stripped Chassis (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(14050 GVWR)
5.4L 4.56 14050 (6373) 9200 (4173) 60 (5.52)
E-450 Stripped Chassis (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(14050 GVWR)
5.4L 4.56 14050 (6372) 9100 (4128) 60 (5.52)
E-450 Stripped Chassis (158” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(14500 GVWR)
6.8L 4.56 20000 (9072) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
E-450 Stripped Chassis (176” wheelbase, dual rear wheel)
(14500 GVWR)
6.8L 4.56 20000 (9072) 10000 (4536) 60 (5.52)
Maximum trailer weight for all cutaway (E-350 and E-450) vehicles
must be calculated by subtracting the weight of the vehicle (including
incomplete vehicle weight and payload which includes second unit
body weight, cargo and passengers) from the GCW. Otherwise,
maximum trailer weight is 10,000 lb. (4536 kg).
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
156
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - lb.
(kg)Maximum
Loaded
Trailer Weight
- lb. (kg)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer - ft
2
(m2)
For high altitude operation reduce GCWR by 2% per 1,000 ft. (300
meters) elevation.
To determine the maximum trailer weight designed for your particular
vehicle as equipped, follow the sectionVehicle loadingearlier in this
chapter.
Your vehicle’s load capacity is designated by weight, not by volume, so
you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading a vehicle.
Distribute the load so that only 10–15% of the total is on the tongue. Tie
down the load so that it does not shift and change the weight on the
hitch.
Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle’s engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these
components carefully after any towing operation.
Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the
certification label.
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.
Preparing to tow
Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is
properly attached to your vehicle. See your authorized dealer or a
reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance.
Hitches
Do not use or install hitches that clamp onto the bumper or to the axle.
Underbody hitches are acceptable if installed properly.
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.
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
157
•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.
•Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
When descending long, steep downhill grades, always use a lower gear to
provide engine braking to save wear on brakes. Use Drive (Overdrive
OFF) on moderately steep hills, Second (2) on steep hills, and First (1)
on very steep hills.Do not apply your brakes continuously, as they
may overheat and become less effective.
Servicing after towing
If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle will require more
frequent service intervals. Refer to yourscheduled maintenance
informationfor 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.
•Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached.
•The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer
weight.
•If you will be towing a trailer frequently in hot weather, hilly
conditions, at GCWR, or any combination of these factors, consider
refilling your rear axle with synthetic gear lube if not already so
equipped. Refer to theMaintenance and specificationschapter for
the lubricant specification. Remember that regardless of the rear axle
lube used, do not tow a trailer for the first 1,000 miles (1600 km) of a
new vehicle, and that the first 500 miles (800 km) of towing be done
at no faster than 70 mph (112 km/h) with no full throttle starts.
•Do not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles (800 km) after changing
the rear axle lube.
•After you have traveled 50 miles (80 km), thoroughly check your
hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.
•When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, place
the gearshift in P (Park) and increase idle speed. This aids engine
cooling and air conditioner efficiency.
•Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must
park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer’s wheels.
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
159
STARTING
Positions of the ignition
1. ACCESSORY, allows the electrical
accessories such as the radio to
operate while the engine is not
running.
2. LOCK, locks the automatic
transmission gearshift lever and
allows key removal.
3. OFF, shuts off the engine and all
accessories without locking the
steering wheel.
4. ON, all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key
position when driving.
5. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine
starts.
Preparing to start your vehicle
Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system. This
system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard
requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio
noise.
When starting a fuel-injected engine, don’t press the accelerator before
or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty
starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to
Starting the enginein this chapter.
Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high
temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk
of fire or other damage.
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry
ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire.
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other enclosed
areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door
before you start the engine. SeeGuarding against exhaust fumesin
this chapter for more instructions.
3
1
2
5
4
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
161
If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer
inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell
exhaust fumes.
Important safety precautions
When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If
the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle
checked. If your vehicle is operated in a heavy snow storm or blowing
snow conditions, the engine air induction may become partially clogged
with snow and/or ice. If this occurs, the engine may experience a
significant reduction in power output. At the earliest opportunity, clear
all the snow and/or ice away from the air induction inlet.
Before starting the vehicle:
1. Make sure all occupants buckle their safety belts. For more
information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to theSeating
and Safety Restraintschapter.
2. Make sure the headlamps and electrical accessories are off.
•Make sure the parking brake is
set.
•Make sure the gearshift is in P
(Park).
2008 Econoline(eco)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
162