Have you struggled at backing up a trailer? This is a skill one can improve with practice, yet it remains problematic for some. Ford has introduced an optional Pro Trailer Backup Assist system to help those who may need it. This is an automated system that takes over the steering function when backing up a trailer. The system is still controlled by the driver, but it aims to ease the task of parking a tag-along.
Before the system can be useful, there is a one-time setup required for each trailer you plan to tow. A checker-board sticker is placed on the top side of the trailer frame near the hitch. Then, four measurements are required to tell the computer the placement of the sticker is and how long the trailer is.
First measurement is from the rear license plate to the center of the hitch ball. It’s important to note, that if you changes hitches, then you may also need to redo the measurements, depending on the length and height of the hitch. The next measurement is from the center of the hitch ball to the center of the sticker. Next is the distance between the camera and the center of the sticker. And finally, it’s the distance between the tailgate and center line of the trailer axle. If you have a dual axle trailer, then the distance is to the center point in the middle of the two trailer axles. You enter all this information into the truck’s system, and you are ready to go in reverse.
The control knob is to the right of the steering wheel and just below the 4×4 selector and just above the integrated trailer brake controller. If the system is active and you do not touch the Trailer Backup knob, then the truck will keep the truck and trailer going straight back. If you need to move the trailer to the left, you rotate the knob to the left. If you want to go to the right, you rotate to the right. You cannot touch the steering wheel while it is spinning in automated mode or the system will immediately deactivate and relinquish the steering control to you.
This system can be added to a new truck for $400 or included in one of a higher trim packages.
Can Roman quickly learn the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system to reverse a trailer, or can he do a better job simply reversing the trailer the old fashioned way? Find out in this video.
