Towing

STANDARD PROCEDURE - TOWING

WARNING: Do not tow the vehicle if the key cannot be turned in the ignition lock. If the key cannot be turned, the ignition lock remains locked and the vehicle cannot be steered. With the engine not running there is no power assistance for the braking and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. The vehicle must not be towed with the front axle raised and the key in position 2 in the ignition lock as the drive wheels could then lock due to the acceleration skid control (ASR)

If the Engine is Damaged

For towing distances up to 30 miles (about 50 km)

- Shift selector lever in "N" position.
- Do not exceed a towing speed of 30 m.p.h. (50 km/h).

For towing distances greater than 30 mile (about 50 km)

- Remove the propeller shafts leading to the drive axles. The vehicle can be towed without restriction.

If the Transmission is Damaged

- Remove the propeller shafts leading to the drive axles. The vehicle can be towed without restriction.

If the Front Axle is Damaged

- Raise the front axle.
- Observe the same towing restrictions as for engine damage.

If the Rear Axle is Damaged

- Raise the rear axle.

NOTE: Comply with local legal regulations regarding towing vehicles.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

NOTE: 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.
- Remove exhaust pipe tips that interfere with the tow sling and crossbar
- Padding should be placed between the tow sling/crossbar and any painted surfaces
- When placing tow hooks on the rear axle, position them so they do not damage the brake tubing or hoses
- Do not tow the vehicle by connecting to the front or rear shock absorbers
- Do not tow a heavily loaded vehicle. Damage to the vehicle 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.

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, steep rises in the road or if the vehicle is equipped with air dams, spoilers, and/or ground effect panels. 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.

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 provided all the wheels are lifted off the ground using tow dollies.