1996 Ford Thunderbird Owner's Manual - Page 173

RWARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. You can tell a console-mounted gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) if the lever is adjacent to the P (Park) and you cannot move it without pushing in the thumb button. Traction-Lok Axle (If equipped) This axle provides added traction on slippery surfaces, particularly when one wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under normal conditions the Traction-Lok axle functions as a standard rear axle. Extended use of other than matching size tires on a Traction-Lok rear axle could result in a permanent reduction in effectiveness. This loss of effectiveness does not affect normal driving and should not be noticeable to the driver. RWARNING To avoid injury, never run the engine with one wheel off the ground, such as when changing a tire. Traction AssistTM (If equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with the optional Traction AssistTM system. This system helps prevent wheel spin in order to improve tire traction and is an especially useful feature when you drive in hilly areas or on slippery, icy or snowy roads. Traction AssistTM works automatically by rapidly applying and releasing the brakes to prevent one or both of the rear drive wheels from spinning during acceleration. 170