DESCRIPTION
American automobile manufacturers use an anti-theft steering column lock. The system locks steering, shift mechanisms and ignition system together. Special provisions are necessary for towing a vehicle when switch is in "LOCK" position and key is not available.
TOWING (WITH IGNITION KEY)
- Ignition key must be in "OFF" position before towing. If transmission, drive shaft and rear axle are not damaged and transmission has proper amount of fluid, rear wheel drive vehicles may be towed from front, with 4 wheels or rear drive wheels on ground). Gear selector lever must be in Neutral.
- On both front and rear wheel drive models, for higher speeds, greater distances, or if transmission is not operating properly, disconnect drive shaft, tow with drive wheels on a tow dolly or tow with drive wheels off ground.
Vehicles may be towed at speeds up to 25 MPH for distances not to exceed 15 miles. Automatic transaxle vehicles should not be towed with all 4 wheels on ground. Manual transaxle vehicles may be towed in "NEUTRAL" without restriction.
TOWING (WITHOUT IGNITION KEY)
If a front pickup is used on rear wheel drive models and drive wheels are on the ground, disconnect drive shaft at rear axle. Secure drive shaft to frame or tail pipe. Otherwise, drive wheels should be placed on a tow dolly.
Front Towing Hookup (Typical). DO NOT attach safety chains to bumper or drive shafts. Scheme 7
TOWING (RECREATIONAL)
Some compact vehicles may be towed behind a recreational vehicle at freeway speeds. Vehicle must be equipped with a manual transmission and in Neutral. If fluid is added to transmission, it is not necessary to disconnect drive shaft.
TOWING PRECAUTIONS
Note. Always refer to instructions provided by manufacturer of hoisting equipment. If vehicle has been damaged, secure all loose or protruding parts.
- When attaching towing slings, hooks, and chains to vehicle, be sure that all connections are safe and secure. DO NOT allow damage to chrome, fuel tank, lower body panels or any other vehicle parts. NOTE: A bumper-to-tow bar restraint strap is advisable to prevent fuel tank damage if tow truck stops quickly.
- Cross all curbs at 45° angles. Towed vehicles should be raised until lifted wheels are at least 4" off ground. Brake drums and rotors should have at least 8" clearance. Make sure there is adequate ground clearance at opposite end of vehicle.
- If vehicle is to be towed with rear wheels off ground, steering wheel should be centered and lashed to window division channel or held in centered position with steering clamp. DO NOT use vehicle's steering lock to hold front wheels in centered position.
- Use wooden blocks between chains and/or sling and frame/body to prevent additional strain or damage. Do not attach "J" hooks to suspension system components. Where possible, use "T" hooks in frame slots to attach chains.
