•
When negotiating low speed obstacles,
applying light brake pressure in
conjunction with the throttle will help
prevent the vehicle from jerking and
will allow you to negotiate the obstacle
in a more controlled manner. Using 4L
will also help with this.
•
Use and equip supplemental safety
equipment as discussed later in this
chapter.
•
Please consult your local off-road
group for other helpful tips.
•
Off-roading requires a high degree of
concentration. Even if your local law
does not prohibit alcohol use while
driving off-road, Ford strongly
recommends against drinking if you
plan to off-road.
Crossing Obstacles
•
Review the path ahead before
attempting to cross any obstacle. It is
best if the obstacle is reviewed from
outside the vehicle so that there is a
good understanding of terrain condition
both in front of and behind the
obstacle.
•
Approach obstacles slowly and slowly
inch the vehicle over.
•
If a large obstacle such as a rock
cannot be avoided, choose a path that
places the rock directly under the tire
rather than the undercarriage of the
vehicle. This will help prevent damage
to the vehicle.
•
Ditches and washouts should be
crossed at a 45 degree angle, allowing
each wheel to independently cross the
obstacle.
Hill Climbing
WARNING
Extreme care should be used when
steering the vehicle in reverse down
a slope so as not to cause the vehicle
to swerve out of control.
•
Always attempt to climb a steep hill
along the fall line of the slope and not
diagonally.
•
If the vehicle is unable to make it up
the hill, DO NOT attempt to turn back
down the slope. Place the vehicle in
low range and slowly back down in
reverse.
•
When descending a steep slope, select
low gear and engage hill descent
control. Use the throttle and brake
pedals to control your descent speed
as described earlier in this section using
hill descent control. Note that hill
descent control is functional in reverse
and should be used in this situation.
Water Wading
Your vehicle is designed to operate in water
depths up to 32 inches (810 millimeters).
However, as the water depth increases,
vehicle speed must be reduced to avoid
potential vehicle damage.
•
Always determine the depth before
attempting a water crossing.
•
Proceed slowly and avoid splashing
water any more than is necessary.
•
Be aware that obstacles and debris
may be beneath the water’s surface.
•
Keep the doors fully closed during the
water crossing.
•
Upon completion of the water crossing,
slowly drive a short distance and check
the brakes for full effectiveness.
33
F-150 (TFC) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201709, Second Printing
Driving Hints
