Towing Procedures Ford Cab & Chassis Ranger

DESCRIPTION

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.

GENERAL TOWING INFORMATION

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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).
5. Towed vehicle should be raised 4-6 inches from ground. Ensure that there is adequate clearance at opposite end of vehicle. If necessary, remove wheels from end being lifted and carry lifted end closer to ground. An 8 inch clearance must be maintained between drums (rotors) and ground.
6. A safety chain completely independent of the primary towing attachment must be used. Never allow passengers to ride in a towed vehicle. State and local rules and regulations must be followed when towing a vehicle.

Front Towing Hookup (2WD - Typical). Scheme 16

TOWING (WITHOUT IGNITION KEY)

If the ignition key is not available, place the rear wheels on a tow dolly and tow the vehicle with the front wheels raised. If vehicle is towed on its front wheels, the steering wheel must be clamped in the straight-ahead position with a steering wheel clamping device designed for towing. 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.

Front Towing Hookup (4WD - Typical). Scheme 17

Typical Rear Towing Hookup. Scheme 18

1. Release parking brake and place transmission in Neutral. As a general rule, towed vehicle should be pulled with drive wheels off the ground. If driving wheels cannot be raised off ground, either place them on a tow dolly or disconnect drive shaft.
2. If vehicle is towed on its front wheels, the steering wheel must be clamped in the straight-ahead position with a steering wheel clamping device designed for towing. Do not use steering column lock.
3. If vehicle being towed has an inoperative rear axle, raise the rear wheels. If vehicle's transmission is inoperative, the drive shaft must be removed or the rear wheels raised.
4. 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.
5. When towing 2WD vehicles on rear wheels, vehicle may be towed at a speed not to exceed 35 MPH and for a maximum distance of 50 miles. When towing vehicle with front wheels on the ground, vehicle may be towed at a speed not to exceed 50 MPH. There is no maximum distance for towing.
6. 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.