1997 Ford Probe Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 148
1997 Ford Probe Manual
Page 148 highlights
When to use 2 (Second) Use Second (2) to help drive up moderately steep hills or when starting on slick surfaces. It prevents the transaxle from frequently shifting up and down. It also gives more engine braking than Overdrive or Drive when going down hills. Do not go faster than 64 mph (102 km/h) with the gearshift in the Second (2) position. If you shift from Overdrive or Drive to Second because of hilly terrain, your transaxle will automatically downshift in the proper sequence. When to use 1 (First) When your vehicle is in First (1), it gives more engine braking to slow your car than Drive (D with Overdrive OFF) on downgrades. Do not go faster than 32 mph (50 km/h) in this gear. You can upshift from First (1) into D Position at any speed. If you shift from Overdrive or Drive to First (1) because of hilly terrain, your transaxle will automatically downshift in the proper sequence. Reverse In the Reverse (R) position, the vehicle moves only backward. Your vehicle must be stopped before shifting into Reverse (R). Neutral In Neutral (N), the wheels of the transaxle are not locked. Your vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline, unless the parking brake or brakes are on. 145