1997 Ford Aerostar Owner's Manual - Page 196

If you use the speed control while you are towing on very long, steep grades, the speed control may shut off. When towing a trailer in hilly terrain, with a vehicle equipped with an automatic overdrive transmission, you may wish to operate in Drive (by cancelling Overdrive with OVERDRIVE OFF button) rather than j (Overdrive). This will eliminate excessive downshifting and upshifting to maintain speed. Switch back to Overdrive whenever practical for optimum powertrain cooling. This can be accomplished by pushing in the switch located on the end of the indicator lever. When descending a steep grade with a trailer, operate in Drive rather than Overdrive. If additional braking is needed, shift the automatic transmission gearshift into the 2 (Second) or 1 (Low) position. Servicing your vehicle if you tow If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your vehicle will need to be serviced more frequently than usual. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule booklet for additional information. Trailer Towing Tips Before starting on a trip, practice turning, stopping and backing in an area away from heavy traffic. Get to know the "feel" of the vehicle/trailer combination. Practice backing up. Back up very slowly, with someone outside at the rear of your trailer to guide you. Place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and move it in the direction you want the rear of the trailer to swing. Slight movement of the steering wheel results in a much larger movement of the rear of the trailer. 196