Towing

STANDARD PROCEDURE





A vehicle equipped with SAE approved sling-type towing equipment can be used to tow all vehicles. When towing a 4WD vehicle using a wheel-lift towing device, use tow dollies under the opposite end of the vehicle. A vehicle with flat-bed device can also be used to transport a disabled vehicle.

A wooden crossbeam may be required for proper connection when using the sling-type, front-end towing method.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS


CAUTION: The following safety precautions must be observed when towing a vehicle:

- Secure loose and protruding parts.
- Always use a safety chain system that is independent of the lifting and towing equipment.
- Do not allow towing equipment to contact the disabled vehicle's fuel tank.
- Do not allow anyone under the disabled vehicle while it is lifted by the towing device.
- Do not allow passengers to ride in a vehicle being towed.
- Always observe state and local laws regarding towing regulations.
- Do not tow a vehicle in a manner that could jeopardize the safety of the operator, pedestrians or other motorists.
- Do not attach tow chains, T-hooks, J-hooks, or a tow sling to a bumper, steering linkage, drive shafts or a non-reinforced frame hole.
- Do not tow a heavily loaded vehicle. Damage to the cab, cargo box or frame may result. Use a flatbed device to transport a loaded vehicle.


GROUND CLEARANCE


CAUTION: If vehicle is towed with wheels removed, install lug nuts to retain brake drums or rotors.

A towed vehicle should be raised until lifted wheels are a minimum 100 mm (4 in) from the ground. Be sure there is adequate ground clearance at the opposite end of the vehicle, especially when towing over rough terrain or steep rises in the road. If necessary, remove the wheels from the lifted end of the vehicle and lower the vehicle closer to the ground, to increase the ground clearance at the opposite end of the vehicle. Install lug nuts on wheel attaching studs to retain brake drums or rotors.


RAMP ANGLE


If a vehicle with flat-bed towing equipment is used, the approach ramp angle should not exceed 15 degrees.


TOWING WHEN KEYS ARE NOT AVAILABLE


When the vehicle is locked and keys are not available, use a flat bed hauler. A Wheel-lift or Sling-type device can be used on 4WD vehicles provided all the wheels are lifted off the ground using tow dollies.


FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE VEHICLE TOWING


DaimlerChrysler Corporation recommends that a vehicle be transported on a flat-bed device. A Wheel-lift or Sling-type device can be used provided all the wheels are lifted off the ground using tow dollies.

WARNING: When towing a disabled vehicle and the drive wheels are secured in a wheel lift or tow dollies, ensure the transmission is in the park position (automatic transmission) or a forward drive gear (manual transmission).

CAUTION: Many vehicles are equipped with air dams, spoilers, and/or ground effect panels. To avoid component damage, a wheel-lift towing vehicle or a flat-bed hauling vehicle is recommended.