Before taking your F-150 SVT Raptor off-roading, a basic vehicle
inspection should be done to ensure that the vehicle is in top working
condition.
It is always recommended that at least two vehicles are used while
off-roading. The buddy system helps ensure that help is close at hand
should a vehicle become stuck or damaged. It is also wise to take
supplies such as a first aid kit, supply of water, tow strap, cell or satellite
phone with you any time an off-road excursion is planned.
OFF-ROAD SCREEN
The real-time status of the Raptor’s off-road systems can be continuously
monitored using the first off-road screen found under the Truck Apps
menu in the information displays screen.
See theInformation Displayschapter of yourOwner’s Manualfor
more information.
BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVING TECHNIQUES
•Grip the steering wheel with thumbs on the outside of the rim. This
will reduce the risk of injury due to abrupt steering wheel motions
that occur when negotiating rough terrain. Do not grip the steering
wheel with thumbs inside the rim.
•Throttle, brake and steering inputs should be made in a smooth and
controlled manner. Sudden inputs to the controls can cause loss of
traction or “upset” the vehicle, especially while on sloped terrain or
while crossing obstacles such as rocks or logs.
•Look ahead on your route noting upcoming obstacles, surface texture
or color changes or any other factors which may indicate a change in
available traction, and adjust the vehicle speed and route accordingly.
During pre-run, mark obstacles with GPS markers to ensure
appropriate speeds are used to avoid potential vehicle damage.
•When driving off-road, if the front or rear suspension is bottoming-out
and/or excessive contact with the skid-plates is encountered, reduce
vehicle speed to avoid potential damage to the vehicle.
•When running with other vehicles, it is recommended that
communication is used, and the lead vehicle notify other vehicles of
obstacles that could cause potential vehicle damage.
•Always keep available ground clearance in mind and pick a route that
minimizes the risk of catching the underside of the vehicle on an
obstacle.
Driving
21
2013 F-150(f12)
Supplement, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
•Do not overload your vehicle. Maximum vehicle and axle weights are
listed on the tire information placard.
•Extra caution should be taken when operating the vehicle near its
maximum load, including assuring proper tire pressure and reducing
speeds.
•In the event that you encounter an abnormally harsh impact, inspect
your tires for damage.
•Inspect your tires for damage on a regular basis. If a tire is damaged,
replace it immediately.
•Proper suspension alignment is critical for maximum performance and
optimal tire wear. If you notice uneven tire wear, have your alignment
checked.
•When replacing tires, the only way to assure original performance is to
use the original equipment tire. If a different tire is used, it should be
the same size, speed rating and load rating.
WHEELS
WARNING:SVT only recommends using bead-lock rings from
Ford Racing, in conjunction with the OEM tire. Any other
combination using this wheel could result in air loss or tire failure.
Your SVT vehicle is equipped with unique wheels matched to the tires.
To avoid damage to your wheels:
•Maintain proper tire pressure (see theTiressection of this
supplement for more information).
•Due to extreme tire/wheel width, this vehicle cannot be taken through
an automatic car wash that uses mechanical tracks, as wheel damage
may result.
•When installing wheels, always torque lug nuts to specification with a
torque wrench.
•Inspect your wheels for damage on a regular basis. If a wheel is
damaged, replace it immediately.
•In the event that you encounter an abnormally harsh impact, inspect
the outer diameter of your wheels, both inside and out, for damage.
Tire Information
35
2013 F-150(f12)
Supplement, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
