2001 Ford Explorer Sport Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 233

Maintenance and care USING SNOW TIRES AND TRACTION DEVICES Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires you currently have on your vehicle. The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, using snow tires and traction devices may be necessary. Ford offers tire cables as a Ford approved accessory and recommends use of these or their equivalents. See your dealer or qualified service technician for more information on tire cables for your vehicle. Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and traction devices: • Install cables securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines. • Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against the vehicle, stop and retighten them. If this does not work, remove the cables to prevent vehicle damage. • Avoid overloading your vehicle. • Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. • Do not use cables on dry roads. • The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from the vehicle when using snow tires and traction devices. • Do not exceed 48 km/h (30 mph) with tire cables on your vehicle. Consult your dealer for information on other Ford approved methods of traction control. 233