2001 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 178

Driving Driving while towing a trailer Do not drive faster than 72 km/h (45 mph) while towing a 454 kg (1 000 lb) trailer. Do not drive faster than 72 km/h (45 mph) with any weight trailer while towing in hilly terrain or on hot days. Speed control (if equipped) may not work properly while towing on long, steep grades. If driving with an automatic transaxle: • Use D (Drive) or a low gear rather than D (Overdrive) while towing up or down steep inclines. • 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. If you need to drive excessively 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.