Before towing any type of trailer or RV with an Excursion, drivers need to understand RV safety systems. The majority of states require trailer brakes on trailers with a loaded weight exceeding 1,500 pounds. Ford Motor Company recommends that all trailers have separate working brake systems. There are two types of brake systems available: electronically-controlled brakes and surge brakes. All trailers must have lighting that follows government regulations for on-road vehicles. Different types of trailers have different wiring needs. RV dealers, automotive accessory dealers and local auto repair shops can help match the wiring needs of the trailer to an Excursion. Safety chains prevent a trailer from coming loose from the vehicle in the event of the trailer separating from the SUV. The chains should always be connected, crossing underneath the trailer tongue. Do not attach the chains to the bumper of the SUV, but to the frame-mounted hitch. Weight distribution systems and sway control are optional safety devices which provide added control of the RV.
Perform a safety inspection every time you hook the trailer to your vehicle. Start by checking tire pressure on the RV and the vehicle. Look for any wear and tear to the tires. Make sure that you have the proper equipment to change a tire. Inspect how the trailer is connected. The pin which secures the ball to the mount should be in place. The hitch coupler should be secure with the spring bar hinges held tightly in place with safety clips. The safety chains should be crossed and attached. Plug in the trailer to the Excursion, ensuring that the wires are loose enough for the vehicle to make turns but are not touching the ground. Raise the trailer jack and lock it into place. All sliding steps or doors to the RV should be properly latched. Check brake lights, turn signals, running and hazard lights. Position the side mirrors so that the driver can properly see to the sides and behind the RV.
Towing a trailer requires extra patience on the part of the driver. Instead of simply paying attention to the vehicle immediately in front of you, you need to watch all of the vehicles in front of, around and behind you. It takes much longer for an SUV towing a trailer to stop. Following and stopping distances should be doubled. When turning or passing other vehicles, signal well in advance and allow extra distances to clear any obstacles or vehicles. Sudden starts or stops can result in skidding, sway or jackknifed trailers. A key visualization technique is to imagine a full glass of water on the floorboard of your vehicle. Drive in a manner that will keep that water from splashing out of the glass.
