2008 Ford Ranger Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 145

Tires, Wheels and Loading Launching or retrieving a boat Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer into the water. Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the trailer is removed from the water. When backing down a ramp during boat launching or retrieval: • do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of the rear bumper. • do not allow waves to break higher than 6 inches (15 cm) above the bottom edge of the rear bumper. Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components: • causing internal damage to the components. • affecting driveability, emissions and reliability. Replace the rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or repair required. RECREATIONAL TOWING Follow these guidelines if you have a need for recreational (RV) towing. An example of recreational towing would be towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not damaged. 2WD and 4WD vehicles with manual transmissions: Before you tow your vehicle: • Release the parking brake. • Move the gearshift to the neutral position. • Turn the key in the ignition to the OFF/UNLOCKED position. • The maximum recommended speed is 55 mph (88 km/h). • The maximum recommended distance is unlimited. • Put 4x4 switch in 2WD mode (4x4 only) • The vehicle must be towed in the forward position to ensure no damage is done to the internal transmission components. For 4x4 vehicles with a manual transmission, it is recommended that a Neutral Tow Kit be purchased and installed by an authorized dealer if the vehicle is towed frequently. 145 2008 Ranger (ran) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA (fus)