Safety chains, Trailer brakes, Trailer lamps – FORD 2008 Crown Victoria User Manual

Page 172: Driving while you tow, Tires, wheels and loading

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Safety chains

Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.

If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency
gives to you.

Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.

Trailer brakes

Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are
safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer’s
specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.

Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your
vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough

braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.

The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the
GVWR not GCWR.

Trailer lamps

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. See your
authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and
equipment for hooking up trailer lamps.

Driving while you tow

When towing a trailer:
• Keep your speed no faster than 70 mph (112 km/h) during the first

500 miles (800 km) of towing a trailer, and don’t make full throttle
starts.

• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off

automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.

• Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer.
• To eliminate excessive shifting, use a lower gear. This will also assist

in transmission cooling. (For additional information, refer to
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 4–speed automatic
transmission
in the Driving chapter.

2008 Crown Victoria (cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA
(fus)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

172

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