1997 Honda Odyssey Owner's Manual - Page 213

Towing If your car needs to be towed, call a professional towing service or, if you belong to one, an organization that provides roadside assistance. Never tow your car behind another car with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous. Emergency Towing There are three popular methods of towing a car: Flat-bed Equipment - The operator loads your car on the back of a truck. This is the best way of transporting your Honda. Wheel Lift Equipment - The tow truck uses two pivoting arms that go under the tires (front or rear) and lift them off the ground. The other two tires remain on the ground. Sling-type Equipment - The tow truck uses metal cables with hooks on the ends. These hooks go around parts of the frame or suspension and the cables lift that end of the car off the ground. Your car's suspension and body can be seriously damaged if this method of towing is attempted. If your Honda cannot be transported by flat-bed, it should be towed with the front wheels off the ground. If due to damage, your car must be towed with the front wheels on the ground, do the following: Release the parking brake. Start the engine. Shift to D4, then to N. Turn off the engine. NOTICE Improper towing preparation will damage the transmission. Follow the above procedure exactly. If you cannot shift the transmission or start the engine, your car must be transported on a flat-bed. It is best to tow the car no farther than 50 miles (80 km), and keep the speed below 35 mph (55 km/h). NOTICE Trying to lift or tow your car by the bumpers will cause serious damage. The bumpers are not designed to support the car's weight. Taking Care of the Unexpected