2008 Mercury Mountaineer Owner Guide 2nd Printing (Spanish) - Page 666

Tires, Wheels and Loading Class III Trailer Hitch Safety Chain Loops can be used as recovery hooks. Do not attach safety chains to the bumper. Trailer brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations. Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system directly to your vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase. The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the GVWR not GCWR. Trailer lamps Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. See your authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking up trailer lamps. Never connect any trailer lighting to the vehicle's taillamp circuits, because it may damage the electrical system resulting in fire. Contact your authorized dealer for assistance in proper trailer tow wiring installation. Additional electrical equipment may be required. Driving while you tow When towing a trailer: • To ensure proper "break-in" of powertrain components, do not trailer tow during the first 1,000 miles (1600 km) of a new vehicle. 246 2008 Mountaineer (mnt) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA (fus)