TRAILER TOWING
Trailer towing with your vehicle may require the use of a trailer tow
option package.
Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension. For your safety and to
maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment
while towing.
Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing procedure:
•
Stay within your vehicle’s load limits.
•
Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to
Preparing to
tow
in this chapter.
•
Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer to
Driving
while you tow
in this chapter.
•
Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to the
severe duty schedule in the scheduled maintenance guide.
•
Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 500
miles (800 km).
•
Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the
proper installation and adjustment specifications.
Do not exceed the maximum loads listed on the Safety Compliance
Certification label. For load specification terms found on the label, refer
to
Vehicle loading
in this chapter when figuring the total weight of your
vehicle.
Note:
Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the
certification label.
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer
weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in
engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle
control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.
REVIEW COPY:
2004 Explorer
(exp)
, Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
(own2002)
,
Market:
USA English
(fus)
Driving
167
Summary of Contents for 2004 Mountaineer
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