Ford 2010 Escape PDF Towing Manual Guide

BRAKES
Many states require a separate braking system on trailers with a loaded weight of more than 1,500 pounds. For your safety, Ford Motor Company recommends that a separate functional brake system be used on any towed vehicle, including those dolly-towed or towbar-towed. There are two basic types of brake systems designed to activate trailer brakes:
1. Electronically Controlled Brakes usually provide automatic and manual control of trailer brakes. They require that the tow vehicle be equipped with a controlling device and additional wiring for electrical power. These brakes typically have a control box installed within reach of the driver and can be applied manually
or automatically.

2. Surge Brakes are independent hydraulic brakes activated by a master cylinder at the junction of the hitch and trailer tongue. They are not controlled by the hydraulic fluid in the tow vehicle’s brake system, and the tow vehicle’s hydraulic system should never be connected directly to the trailer’s hydraulic system.

Be sure your trailer brakes conform to all applicable state regulations. See Quick Tips – Safe Trailering on back cover for additional braking information.

TRAILER LAMPS
Make sure the trailer is equipped with lights that conform to all applicable government regulations. The trailer lighting system should not be connected directly to the lighting system of the vehicle. See a local recreational vehicle dealer or rental trailer agency for correct wiring and relays for the trailer and heavy-duty flashers.

SAFETY CHAINS
• Always use safety chains when towing. Safety chains are used to retain connection between the towing and towed vehicle in the event of separation of the trailer coupling or ball
• Use cross chains under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from contacting the ground if a separation occurs. Allow only enough slack to permit full turning – be sure they do not drag on the pavement
• When using a frame-mounted trailer hitch, attach the safety chains to the frame-mounted hitch using the recommendations supplied by the hitch manufacturer
• See your vehicle’s Owner Guide for safety chain attachment information
• For rental trailers, follow rental agency instructions for hookup of safety chains

TRAILER WIRING HARNESS
• Some vehicles equipped with a factory-installed Trailer Tow Package include a trailer wiring harness and a wiring kit
• This kit includes one or more jumper harnesses (to connect to your trailer wiring connector) and installation instructions

Download Ford 2010 Escape PDF Towing Manual Guide