1997 Mercury Grand Marquis Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 169

When to use 1 (Low) Use 1 (Low) when driving down steep grades. It gives more engine braking to slow your vehicle than 2 (Second) on the downgrades. You can upshift from 1 (Low) to 2 (Second) or from 1 (Low) to Overdrive at any speed. P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before you shift into P (Park). Make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from rotating. RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. RWARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. You can tell a column-mounted gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) if the lever is adjacent to the P (Park) and you cannot move it without pulling it toward you and rotating it downward. Driving With a Heavy Load There are limits to the amount of weight your vehicle can carry or tow. The total weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and cargo, should never be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight 169