Had to purchase a deeper drop for my shank for the new 2017. This weekend I thought I would hook up the trailer and configure the trailer setup on the F250. The equalization setup translated to the new shank very well. I had a minimal drop on the front axle and about 1/2" on the rear axle.

I followed the steps in the trailer tow guide manual. I had to remove my propane tanks completely to mount the 'alignment' sticker as it was an integral part of the steps.

I had a few issues with the calibration and had to do it about 3 times.

The blind spot got configured but it does not seem very useful to me. It only activates when someone is about half way alongside the trailer. I attribute this to the BLIS sensors cannot see around the front of the trailer very efficiently. I will not rely upon this.

The two cameras are handy for looking down the side of the trailer but I tend to trust the mirrors more. I would be good for backing straight but that is what the reverse guidance is for. It appears the reverse guidance needs to see that sticker for it to work as it stated that on the screen. This will be a problem for me since I have to put the propane tanks back on which will block the sticker.

It does not seem that I will be using the reverse guidance unless I can find a way to put the sticker on my tank cover or the jack.

I had previously towed with a 2013 F250 Crew Shortbed 3.55 axle ratio. This one is a Supercab 3.31 axle ratio. I notice this truck is not as fast off the line in pulling but holds its own once it gets going. I can live with that.

It rides much better which I attribute to the longer wheelbase. It is a bit more difficult to back into our spot at home, or I am just not used to it.

It will be a learning experience and it is unfortunate that I will not be able to fully utilize the towing features.

Here is a pic of the setup.

 

The sticker issue is what I am concerned about, not sure if they will work on my setup either.

 

Nice rig

 

Looks great Roger. Thanks for the report!

 

Looks good congrats.

 

^^^ ditto ^^^

I've been thinking about that as well. I'm sure someone will come up with a great work-a-round, but it has me concerned.


biz

 

That's a good looking combo! Congrats!

 

I have a VERY similar setup to you. Mounted my sticker on the A-Frame and put the further portion of the sticker about 1/2 - 3/4 inch under the propane tank box. Was able to do the calibration without problem, but using reverse guidance is hit-or-miss.

I could not / can not get the BLIS working. I have selected conventional trailer type, selected the option for less than 9 feet wide and less than 30 feet long. Selected 27 feet for my length (25 ft airstream) And it is never active. Anything else you did to get the BLIS working?

Thanks in advance.

 

Roger and twesslen - I've got an Airstream 27FB, currently pulled by a 2010 F250, but will be upgrading the truck soon. Are you guys saying that there is not enough room on the tongue forward of the propane box for the alignment stickers?

 

BLIS does work on mine but not until the vehicle next to the trailer is about half way forward of the tail of our trailer.

 

There was not enough space for me and you will probably be the same.

It is only used for backup purposes if I understand it correctly. I tend to rely upon my eyes more than some electronic method for backing up.

The next thing I was going to try was putting the alignment sticker on the shaft of the tongue jack. If you try let me know how it goes.

 

Have you had any problems hooking up your safety chains? I know there was a thread a few weeks ago about this problem. Just picked up my 2017 F350 last week and tried to attach the chains to see if my 5/16" hooks would fit. Was not happy to find that they do not fit. I can slide them on but they will not snap nor is there any room for the hook to move with the trailer.

Also curious how much you had to drop the hitch receiver? I have a Hensley hitch and need to get an off-set of 4 to 6" to accommodate the difference in height from my previous 2002 F250.

 

Sharp color you have

 

[QUOTE=Bruce2017;17009159]Have you had any problems hooking up your safety chains? I know there was a thread a few weeks ago about this problem. Just picked up my 2017 F350 last week and tried to attach the chains to see if my 5/16" hooks would fit. Was not happy to find that they do not fit. I can slide them on but they will not snap nor is there any room for the hook to move with the trailer.

Also curious how much you had to drop the hitch receiver? I have a Hensley hitch and need to get an off-set of 4 to 6" to accommodate the difference in height from my

Had the same problem with my tow hooks, went to the local RV store and checked their 5/16 hooks and they fit on my 2017 fine. Difference was the my keeper or safety clasp was to long , went home and cut down to match the one at the store. Seems to me someone else on another thread recommended doing the same thing. Works perfect.

 

Here is a thread about the hooks and what I used:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post16829847

I could not find the 5/8" anywhere around here.

I have an Equal-i-zer hitch and had to change to the largest drop:

2-1/2" for 6K - 14K Models

I went from the 4800 to the 4900.