1997 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 127
1997 Ford Explorer Manual
Page 127 highlights
Driving You can shift into R (Reverse) only by moving the gearshift from left of 3 (Third) and 4 (Fourth) gears before you shift into R (Reverse). This is s special lockout feature that protects you from accidently shifting into R (Reverse) when you downshift from 5 (Overdrive). USING THE CONTROL TRAC 4WD SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) Positions of the Control Trac system 4WD AUTO - Full power delivered to front and rear axles for increased traction. Use this mode for normal on-road operating conditions such as dry road surfaces, wet pavement, snow and gravel. 4WD HIGH - 4WD with full power to the rear axle and higher continuous power level to the front axle than 4WD AUTO. Use this mode for severe winter or off-road conditions such as deep snow, ice, shallow sand. 4WD LOW - Full power to both axles, including a lower gear ratio for low-speed. Use this mode for off-raod applications that require extra power such as deep sand, steep grades and pulling a boat out of the water. 4WD LOW operation is not recommended on dry pavement. 128