Hi guys , there is something I just can't figure out. I'm not trolling here BTW

I'm trying to understand the benefit of the trailer backup assist ? Backing up a trailer requires situational awareness first. How is this system will facilitate that ? If somebody doesn't figure out Wich way to turn the wheel , how that same person will figure out Wich way to turn the **** ?

Looks like im getting it in 2020 so I guess that I will have to try it.

Do you guys have a story of how you where hesitant to backup your trailer and now with this system you feel more confident ?

( I hope it was clear English is not my main language)
Thanks

 

Well if its as awesome of a gimmick as my 17 F150 was, it flat out sucks!. I have driven truck and trailer for decades, I had to use the feature just to try it. You first need to set up the trailer with the special reflector tape and input all the parameters per trailer. Third time using it and I made a huge blunder, I was so focused on the damn screen I hit the side of my other trailer with the front passenger fender of my truck. It was my fault, I have backed into the same spot hundreds of times and this time I let technology get the best of me.

From my experience you can back a trailer faster, easier and safer using the mirrors and the bottom of the steering wheel. The trailer assist is in my opinion a gimmick and in my case a slightly expensive mistake.

 

Wow that's a nice experience , thanks !

 

I think the concept is you turn the **** to where you want to go on the screen.
The truck turns the wheel the correct amount to make the trailer go to where the **** was pointed.
I have the less sophisticated type on my 2018 f450.
It took a while to figure it out because you have to select a trailer after you put it in reverse, even though you already selected a trailer when you hooked it up.
I dont use it, but, if my trailer was a little smaller and I could not see it behind the dually fenders, it would come in handy to keep the trailer stright when backing up.

 

It's a feature designed for those who rarely back up a trailer. Backing a trailer is a learned skill. Most people don't do this very often and never really lean the skill. Then, they go get a trailer (or a boat on a trailer). They use that 4-10 times per year ... which isn't enough to get really good at most things in life. So, without prolonged practice, most folks always struggle a bit with backing their trailers. These devices can help.

But, sure, for all the seasoned veterans of backing, the conclusions reached are generally correct: this feature won't help you. It may hinder you.

And, that's generally how these discussions land. A handful of people respond with some kind of testimonial about how they've been backing trailers for years, trust their eyes, etc. Yep, all valid. The conclusion is correct: these devices aren't for you and will likely be of no use to you.

I generally fit into the common truck use model: I back a trailer a dozen times per year, but don't do it professionally and don't do it with enough regularity to gain any proficiency. I partially use technology: Ford's back up assist and my camera on my trailer. But, 80% of my backing is done with mirrors, eyeballs, and spotters. I'm happy to take my time, even if that means that I become the butt of jokes for certain onlookers. Put on my shirt, have a beer, and enjoy nature.