Breaking-in E450

During the discussion of the "80 MPH Phoenix Cruisers", I searched for the E450 owner's manual.  I saw one thing that kinda surprised me.  The break-in section was fairly short and to the point, but it did say something like..."do not tow for the first 1000 miles".   I'm driving to Elkhart in September to pick up my PC.  Anyone wish to comment on this 1000 mile recommendation?  Keep in mind that my previous motorhome was diesel pusher.  TIA

Cheers   

Barry T

I don't think anyone but Ford could really provide meaningful input on that.

I would take it to mean "don't stress the engine for the first 1,000 miles" but what do I know.  Maybe post that question on one of the Ford forums?

I guess you drive around Elkhart for awhile

I don't think anyone but Ford could really provide meaningful input on that.

I would take it to mean "don't stress the engine for the first 1,000 miles" but what do I know.  Maybe post that question on one of the Ford forums?

I guess you drive around Elkhart for awhile

Ha!  I guess I will.  Maybe drive back and forth to Chicago several ties.

What I meant was..how many actually do not tow the first 1000 miles.

Barry T

What I meant was..how many actually do not tow the first 1000 miles.

I did not, but that was because I flew into Elkhart and my tow was still in Oregon.  If I was driving, I guess I would go ahead and tow anyway but take it easy and avoid any steep climbs.  That would not be possible for me heading to Oregon so maybe take a look at your route and see if that is possible for you.

I am no expert I do not think towing on level ground presents any particular strain.  Uphill is a different story though.

But I think an answer from a reputable Ford truck dealer or mechanic would mean a lot more than my opinion.

I would imagine that since the chassis has a house built on it's back, that weighs it down quite heavy to begin with.  So it is already towing (carrying) a heavy load.  Pulling the added weigh of a tow vehicle would be just a bit more.

When we bought our PC back in 2007, I drove it home 170 miles with Irene following me in our car.  Then we went on a weekender adding around 200 more miles, then started towing a 2100 pound MR2 for many thousands of miles.

Driving home from the factory while towing, I think if you take it easy, you will do yourself good service.  If you are traveling with someone, have them drive the tow vehicle separately for the first day back home.  Something is better than nothing.  It may also make a difference driving in scorching 100 degree heat compared to 80 degrees.  Some of the break-in might be related to the running temperature of the engine.