1998 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 101

1998 Ford Escort Manual

Page 101 highlights

Driving Hitches Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper. Use a load carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10 - 15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue. Safety chains Always connect the trailer's safety chains to the vehicle. To connect the trailer's safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners. If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency gives to you. Trailer brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type 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. Trailer lamps Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure your trailer lamps conform to local and Federal regulations. See your 101

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Hitches
Do not use hitches that clamp onto
the vehicle bumper. Use a load
carrying hitch. You must distribute
the load in your trailer so that 10 –
15% of the total weight of the
trailer is on the tongue.
Safety chains
Always connect the trailer’s safety
chains to the vehicle. To connect
the trailer’s safety chains, cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and
allow slack for turning corners.
If you use a rental trailer, follow
the instructions that the rental
agency gives to you.
Trailer brakes
Electric brakes and manual,
automatic or surge-type 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.
Trailer lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most
towed vehicles. Make sure your
trailer lamps conform to local and
Federal regulations. See your
Driving
101