Five things you should know before you tow 

How to prepare to tow in your Ford truck 

Towing can be a convenient way to transport your belongings or vehicles, but it’s important to approach it with caution and preparation. Before you hitch up your trailer or attach your tow bar, make sure you know these five important tips, found below. We can help you find a truck to tow with here at Sherwood Ford in Sherwood Park, AB. 

Towing Tips, Tools and Tech: A Ford Towing Video Guide | Ford video 

Here’s a more in-depth exploration of towing in a Ford vehicle. You’ll see some of the great features that make Ford trucks a favorite of towers everywhere. Keep reading below for our five tips if you’re a first-time tower. 

Five tips for drivers towing in a Ford truck 

Towing can be safe and efficient, but it requires preparation, caution, and attention to detail. By following these five important tips before you tow, you can help ensure a safe and stress-free towing experience.  

1. Check your vehicle’s towing capacity: Before you start towing, it’s essential to know the maximum weight that your vehicle can safely tow. This information can typically be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, online, or by contacting the manufacturer. Going beyond your vehicle’s towing capacity can cause damage to your engine, transmission, and brakes, so it’s important to stay within the recommended limits. 
2. Secure your load: Your load should be securely fastened to your tow vehicle, whether it’s a trailer or a vehicle on a tow dolly. Check that all straps, chains, and other attachments are tightened and secured before you hit the road. 
3. Adjust your driving habits: Towing a load changes how your vehicle handles, so it’s important to adjust your driving habits accordingly. Increase your following distance, brake earlier, and take turns more slowly than you would when driving without a load. 
4. Be mindful of weight distribution: Proper weight distribution is crucial for safe towing. Make sure that the majority of the weight is evenly distributed over the wheels of the tow vehicle and the trailer or towed vehicle. Uneven weight distribution can cause instability and make it difficult to control your vehicle. 
5. Practice before you go: If you’ve never towed a trailer or vehicle before, it’s a good idea to practice in a safe, open area before hitting the open road. Practice backing up, turning, and stopping until you feel comfortable with the way your vehicle handles the load.