Recreational towing, Tires, wheels and loading – FORD 2009 Escape v.3 User Manual

Page 194

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• do not allow waves to break higher than 6 inches (15 cm) above the

bottom edge of the rear bumper.

Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components:
• causing internal damage to the components.
• affecting driveability, emissions and reliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in
water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed
unless a leak is suspected or repair required.

RECREATIONAL TOWING

Follow these guidelines for your specific powertrain combination to tow
your vehicle for personal travel (such as behind a motor home or a
truck).

Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to
prevent exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle. Refer to the Climate
controls
chapter for more information.

In case of roadside emergency with a disabled vehicle, please refer to
Wrecker towing in the Roadside Emergencies chapter.

These guidelines are designed to prevent damage to your vehicle.

Front Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicles:

Tow your Front Wheel Drive vehicle with all four wheels on the ground
or with the front wheels off the ground by using a tow dolly. If you are
using a tow dolly follow the instructions specified by the equipment
provider.

Note: If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, follow
these instructions:
• Tow only in the forward direction.
• Release the parking brake.
• Place the transmission shift lever in (N) Neutral.
• Place the ignition to the accessory position (refer to Starting in the

Driving chapter).

• Do not exceed 70 mph (113 km/h) with manual transmission vehicles

and 65 mph (105 km/h) for automatic transmission vehicles.

• Start the engine and allow it to run for five minutes at the beginning

of each day and at each fuel stop.

Tires, Wheels and Loading

194

2009 Escape (204)
Owners Guide (own2002), 3rd Printing
USA
(fus)

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