1997 Mercury Tracer Owner's Manual - Page 105

Driving Driving while towing a trailer Do not drive faster than 88 km/h (55 mph) while towing a 454 kg (1000 lb) trailer. Do not drive faster than 72 km/h (45 mph) with any weight trailer while towing in hilly country or on hot days. Speed control (if equipped) may not work properly while towing on very long, steep grades. If driving with an automatic transaxle: • use D or L rather than D while towing up or down steep hills. • anticipate stops and brake gradually. If driving with a manual transaxle: • select a gear that avoids jerking or excessive engine speed. • avoid driving excessively in first or second gear. In first or second gear the trailer may be too big or too heavily loaded for the vehicle drivetrain. • shift to a lower gear while towing up or down steep hills. • anticipate stops and brake gradually. Servicing while towing If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle requires more frequent service than a vehicle not used for towing. Refer to the Service Guide for more information. 105