2013 Ford Escape Warranty Supplement Printing 1 - Page 191

Towing When Towing a Trailer • Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles (800 kilometers) and do not make full-throttle starts. Check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughly after you have traveled 50 miles (80 km). Place the gearshift lever in position P to aid in engine and transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot weather while stopped in traffic. Turn off the speed control. The speed control may turn off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades. Shift to a lower gear when driving down a long or steep hill. Do not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective. If your transmission is equipped with the grade assist feature, use this feature when towing. This provides engine braking and helps eliminate excessive transmission shifting for optimum fuel economy and transmission cooling. Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached; anticipate stops and brake gradually. Avoid parking on a grade. However, if you must park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer's wheels. Installing the Towing Eye The screw-in towing eye has a left-hand thread. Turn it counterclockwise to install it. Make sure that the towing eye is fully tightened. • • • E146284 • Insert a suitable object to pry open the cover (1). Use recessed/notched portion of the cover. Screw in the towing eye (2). • Towing the Vehicle on Four Wheels Switch the ignition to the on position. Failure to do so results in steering lock and non-function of indicator and brake lamps. Braking and steering efforts are high if the engine is not running. Maintain increased stopping distances. • • TOWING POINTS (IF EQUIPPED) Towing Eye Location The screw-in towing eye is located in the spare wheel well. The towing eye must always be carried in the vehicle. 191