Are you planning to take a long road trip with your family and your heavy luggage? Or maybe you need to tow your boat for a weekend getaway? You need a vehicle with a high towing capacity, and the Ford Expedition 2018 can be your perfect choice. This full-size SUV is not only spacious and comfortable but also capable of towing heavy loads. In this article, we will share with you some tips and tricks to maximize the towing capacity of your Ford Expedition 2018.
Understanding Towing Capacity
First, let's clarify what towing capacity means. Towing capacity is the maximum weight that a vehicle can tow safely. It includes the weight of the trailer, the payload, and the passengers. Exceeding the towing capacity of your vehicle can be dangerous and cause accidents. Therefore, it's crucial to know your Ford Expedition 2018's towing capacity before towing anything.
The Ford Expedition 2018 has a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 pounds when properly equipped. It means that you need to have the right engine, transmission, and towing package to reach that number. The standard engine is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, which delivers 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a ten-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. You can also opt for the four-wheel-drive system, which reduces the towing capacity to 9,000 pounds.
Choosing the Right Trailer
Choosing the right trailer is as important as knowing your vehicle's towing capacity. You need to consider the weight, size, and type of the trailer you want to tow. The weight of the trailer should not exceed your Ford Expedition 2018's towing capacity. The size of the trailer should also fit your vehicle's dimensions and not obstruct your view. The type of the trailer can be a travel trailer, a fifth-wheel trailer, or a boat trailer, depending on your needs.
Another factor to consider is the trailer's tongue weight, which is the weight that the trailer puts on the hitch ball. The tongue weight should be between 10% and 15% of the trailer's total weight. You can adjust the tongue weight by shifting the cargo forward or backward. A proper tongue weight ensures a safe and stable towing experience.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Towing
Before towing anything, you need to prepare your Ford Expedition 2018 for the task. First, check the owner's manual for any specific instructions or limitations. Then, inspect your vehicle's brakes, suspension, tires, and lights to make sure they are in good condition. You may need to upgrade some components, such as the brake pads or the shocks, for better performance.
You also need to install a hitch receiver and a ball mount that matches the trailer's size and weight. Make sure that the hitch receiver and the ball mount are securely attached to your vehicle's frame. You can use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the recommended torque values. Don't forget to connect the safety chains and the trailer's electrical connector to your vehicle.
Driving Tips for Towing
Driving a vehicle with a trailer requires some adjustments to your driving habits. You need to be aware of the increased length, width, and weight of your combination. You need to accelerate and brake gradually, especially when starting or stopping. You also need to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and reduce your speed when turning or going downhill.
You need to use your mirrors and your backup camera to monitor the trailer's position and the traffic behind you. You may need to adjust your mirrors to have a wider view. You also need to be extra cautious when changing lanes or passing other vehicles, as the trailer's length can obstruct your view.
Maintaining Your Vehicle and Trailer
Maintaining your Ford Expedition 2018 and your trailer is essential for their longevity and performance. You need to check your vehicle's fluids, such as the oil, the coolant, and the brake fluid, regularly. You also need to change the oil and the oil filter according to the recommended intervals. You may need to change the transmission fluid and the differential fluid more frequently if you tow frequently or in harsh conditions.
You also need to inspect your trailer's tires, brakes, and lights before each trip. You need to inflate the tires to the recommended pressure and replace them if they are worn out or damaged. You also need to lubricate the wheel bearings and adjust the brakes if necessary. Don't forget to test the trailer's lights and signals to ensure they are working correctly.
In conclusion, the Ford Expedition 2018 is a reliable and capable SUV that can tow heavy loads with ease. To maximize its towing capacity, you need to understand towing capacity, choose the right trailer, prepare your vehicle for towing, drive safely, and maintain your vehicle and trailer. By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable towing experience with your family and your belongings.
Komentar
Posting Komentar