GENERAL TOWING INFORMATION
Note. American vehicle manufacturers use an anti-theft steering column lock. The system locks steering, shift mechanisms and ignition systems together. Special provisions are necessary when switch is in the "LOCK" position and key is not available.
- Remove loose or protruding parts of damaged vehicle such as hoods, doors, fenders, trim, etc. Remove exhaust tips and any other optional equipment that may interfere with towing sling.
- Operator should refrain from going under vehicle while it is lifted by towing equipment. Support vehicle with safety stands if it is necessary to go underneath vehicle.
- Padding should be placed between tow sling and any painted surfaces. When using tow hooks on rear suspension, position hooks so as not to damage brake lines. Do not allow towing equipment to rest on fuel tank.
- Do not hook vehicle by front or rear shock absorber or coil springs (if used). Do not lift or tow the vehicle by attaching to or securing to the bumper energy absorber units (if used).
- Raise vehicle 4-6" from ground. Ensure that there is adequate clearance at opposite end of vehicle. Remove wheels from end being lifted and carry lifted end closer to ground (if necessary). An 8" clearance must be maintained between drums (rotors) and ground.
- A safety chain completely independent of the primary towing attachment must be used. Never allow passengers to ride in towed vehicle. Follow state and local rules and regulations when towing vehicle.
| CAUTION | To prevent drive train damage, shift the transmission and transfer case (if equipped) into the positions outlined under specific towing instructions. |
TOWING PRECAUTIONS
- Release parking brake. Place transmission in Neutral. Towed vehicle should be pulled with drive wheels raised. If driving wheels cannot be raised, place them on a tow dolly or disconnect drive shaft.
- If vehicle is towed on its front wheels. Clamp steering wheel in the straight-ahead position. Do not use steering column lock.
- If rear axle is inoperative, raise the rear wheels. If transmission is inoperative, the drive shaft must be removed or the rear wheels raised.
- Use "T" hooks if Aerostar will be towed with the rear wheels off the ground. If vehicle is equipped with an under vehicle spare tire carrier, remove tire and store in a secure area.
- When towing 2WD vehicles on rear wheels, tow at a speed not to exceed 35 MPH and no further than 50 miles. When towing with front wheels on the ground, tow at a speed not to exceed 50 MPH. There is no maximum distance for towing.
- On 4WD vehicles with manual locking hubs, place hubs in "FREE" position. Automatic locking hubs should be disengaged. Place transmission and transfer case in Neutral. Tow at a speed not to exceed 40 MPH. There is no maximum distance for towing.
Front Towing Hookup (Typical 2WD). Scheme 12
Front Towing Hookup (Typical 4WD). Scheme 13
Rear Towing Hookup (Typical). Scheme 14
TOWING (WITH IGNITION KEY)
- All RWD vehicles may be towed with transmission in Neutral. If transmission is inoperative, the drive shaft must be disconnected or the vehicle towed with rear wheels on a dolly.
- If necessary to tow with rear wheels raised, lock front wheels in straight-ahead position with appropriate device or use a dolly under front wheels. CAUTION: DO NOT use steering lock mechanism to lock front wheels in straight-ahead position.
- On 4WD models with manual locking hubs, place both transmission and transfer case in Neutral. Place manual locking hubs in "FREE" position. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position.
TOWING (WITHOUT IGNITION KEY)
Place rear wheels on a dolly. Tow vehicle with front wheels raised. If vehicle is towed on its front wheels, the steering wheel must be clamped in the straight-ahead position with an appropriate device. Do not use steering column lock.
TOWING (RECREATIONAL)
All 4WD vehicles may be towed with all wheels on the ground. On 4WD vehicles equipped with manual locking hubs, place hubs in "FREE" position. Automatic locking hubs should be disengaged. Place transmission and transfer case in Neutral. Vehicle may be towed at a speed not to exceed 40 MPH. There is no maximum distance for towing.