2000 Mercury Mountaineer Four Wheeling Supplement 1st Printing - Page 14

Trailer Towing Descend a hill in the same gear you would use to climb up the hill to avoid excessive brake application and brake overheating. Do not descend in neutral, disengage overdrive or manually shift to a lower gear. When descending a steep hill, avoid sudden hard braking as you could lose control. When you brake hard, the front wheels can't turn and if they aren't turning, you won't be able to steer. The front wheels have to be turning in order to steer the vehicle. Rapid pumping of the brake pedal will help you slow the vehicle and still maintain steering control. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, apply the brakes steadily. Do not "pump" the brakes. TRAILER TOWING Your 4WD or AWD vehicle may be equipped for towing trailers (or may require a trailer tow package), provided that the combined total weight of the vehicle and trailer is less than or equal to the recommended Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). Refer to "Ford Recreation Vehicle and Trailer Towing Guide," the "Owner's Guide" or see an authorized Ford or Lincoln/Mercury Dealer for additional information. 14