1996 Ford Contour Owner's Manual - Page 159

6 Connecting the trailer's brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or surge-type hydraulic brakes are safe if you install them properly and adjust them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure that your trailer's brakes meet local and federal regulations. RWARNING 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. Connecting the trailer's lights Do not connect a trailer's lighting system wiring directly to your vehicle's lighting system wiring. To get the proper equipment for hooking up your trailer's lights, see your local trailer dealer and your Ford dealer. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully. If you do not install trailer lights correctly, you may cause damage to the vehicle's lighting system. Driving While You Tow Be especially careful when driving while you tow a trailer. Never drive faster than 45 mph (70 km/h) when you tow in hilly country on hot days. Also, anticipate stops so that you can brake gradually. If your vehicle has a manual transaxle and you are towing a trailer, you should select gear positions which will avoid jerking or excessive engine speed. If you need to drive excessively in 1 (First) or 2 (Second), it may indicate that the trailer is too big or heavily loaded for your vehicle's drivetrain. Continuous driving in these two gears while towing a trailer is not recommended. 160