2001 Toyota Tacoma Owners Manual - Page 229

'01 Tacoma U (L/O 0009) -Emergency towing hook precautions D Before emergency towing, check that the hook is not broken or damaged and that the installation bolts are not loose. -Tips for towing a stuck vehicle CAUTION If the emergency towing hook is used to get out when your vehicle becomes stuck in the mud, sand or other condition from which the vehicle cannot be driven out under its own power, make sure to observe the precautions mentioned below. Otherwise, excessive stress will be put on the hook and the towing cable or chain may break, causing serious injury or damage. The following methods are effective to use when your vehicle is stuck in the mud, sand or other condition from which the vehicle cannot be driven out under its own power. Use extreme caution when towing the vehicle. In addition, keep away from the vehicles and towing cable or chain when towing. D Fasten the towing cable or chain securely to the hook. D Do not jerk the hook. Apply steady and even force. D To avoid damaging the hook, do not pull from the side or at a vertical angle. Always pull straight ahead. D Remove the sand and soil in the front and the back of the tires. D Place stones or wood under the tires. D If the towing vehicle can hardly move, do not forcibly continue the towing. Contact your Toyota dealer or a commercial tow truck service for assistance. D Tow the vehicle as straight ahead as possible. D Keep away from the vehicle during towing. 2001 TACOMA (OM35766U) 237