1996 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 248

s one SAE J1239 specified connector s one extension harness within the rear bumper If you need further assistance in wiring a trailer to your vehicle, contact your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Driving While You Tow Be especially careful when driving while you tow a trailer. Never drive faster than 45 mph (70 km/h) when you tow in hilly country on hot days. Also, anticipate stops so that you can brake gradually. If you use the speed control while you are towing on very long, steep grades, the speed control may shut off automatically. When descending a steep grade with a trailer, operate in Drive rather than Overdrive. If additional braking is needed, shift into 2 (Second) or 1 (First) gear. 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. See the Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet in the Owner's portfolio. 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. When turning, drive slightly beyond the normal turning point so the trailer wheels will clear curbs or other obstructions. 252