2001 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 165

Driving Trailer towing tips • Practice turning, stopping and backing up before starting on a trip to get the feel of the vehicle trailer combination. When turning, make wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles. • Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached. • The trailer tongue weight should be 10% of the loaded trailer weight. • After you have traveled 80 km (50 miles), thoroughly check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts. • When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, place the gearshift in P (Park) and increase idle speed. This aids engine cooling and air conditioner efficiency. • Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer's wheels. LUGGAGE RACK The front and rear crossbar can be adjusted to fit the item being carried. Do not load more than 44 kg (100 lbs.) on the luggage rack. To adjust cross-bar position: 1. Loosen the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar. 2. Slide the cross-bar to the desired location. 3. Tighten the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar. Use adjustable tie down loops to secure the load. 165