2002 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual - Page 101

Driving If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or braking ability may be reduced. Also, if the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall. Once you're through the water, always dry the brakes by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as quickly as dry brakes. When driving through mud, be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction. Even 4WD vehicles can lose traction in slick mud. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle. If the transmission, transfer case or either axle become submerged in mud or water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary. After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts could damage driveline components. "Tread Lightly" is an educational program designed to increase public awareness of land-use regulations and responsibilities in our nations wilderness areas. Ford joins the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management in encouraging you to help preserve our national forest and other public and private lands by "treading lightly." Driving on hilly or sloping terrain Avoid driving crosswise or turning on steep slopes or hills. Your vehicle may lose traction and slip sideways and possibly roll over. Do not drive in reverse over a hill without the aid of an observer. 101