2017 Wrecker Towing Manual
December, 2017 Ver.1
CPR © 2017 FORD MOTOR COMPANY
DEARBORN, MICHIGAN 48121
12/2017
FCS-12141-18
SHEET 1 OF 14
2018 WRECKER TOWING MANUAL
ABOUT THIS WRECKER TOWING MANUAL
Ford Motor Company salutes and applauds the towing industry for many fine years of service to the
automotive industry. We will continue to work to provide our customers with guidelines to help assist with
safe and efficient towing.
This manual contains the latest towing procedures for 2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. Ford Motor
Company has created easy-to-follow instructions with illustrations showing the correct hook-up to help
prevent damage when towing.
New body effects and aerodynamic styling require new methods of towing to reduce the possibility of
damage while in-tow. Wheel lifts or flatbed equipment are required to tow Ford Motor Company vehicles.
Refer to the instructions given for the specific vehicle to be towed.
NOTE, NOTICE AND WARNING
As you read through this manual, you may come across a NOTE, NOTICE or WARNING. Each one is
there for a specific purpose: A NOTE calls attention to unique, additional or essential information
related to the subject procedure. A NOTICE identifies a hazard that could damage the vehicle
or property. A WARNING identifies a hazard to yourself or others that could result in severe injury
or death.
GENERAL TOWING INFORMATION
WARNING: When working with a vehicle that has been damaged or in an accident, always proceed
with caution around undeployed airbags. As a precaution the airbag system should be disabled by
disconnecting the battery in a safe manner.
NOTICE: Incorrect towing of a vehicle may result in damage to components such as the
transmission/transaxle, transfer case, front or rear fascia, steering/suspension and exhaust.
Always follow the specified towing procedures. It is recommended that only an unloaded vehicle
be towed.
NOTICE: Prior to transporting a battery electric or hybrid electric vehicle that has experienced
physical damage to the body, underbody or powertrain, refer to the Towing, Recovery and Storage
of Damaged Ford Motor Company Electric and Hybrid-Electric Vehicles section of this guide.
NOTICE: Ford Motor Company does not recommend the use of slingbelts or tow bars, which may
cause damage to the fascia, lower body panels, air dams and/or other components.
NOTICE: Always consult the tow equipment manufacturer for specific instructions on how to
operate their equipment. If a vehicle has been modified, consult the equipment modifier or
supplier for the specific towing instructions.
NOTICE: When a vehicle is towed over rough pitching roads, such as a crowned road at a railroad
crossing, reduce the towing speed to avoid damaging the vehicle undercarriage.
NOTICE: Never hook a J-hook to any suspension, wheel or driveline component. Securing a
vehicle using this method may cause damage to the vehicle.
