1997 Toyota 4Runner Owners Manual - Page 177

-Tips for towing a stuck vehicle ! CAUTION If the emergency towing hook is used to get out when your vehicle becomes stuck in the mud, sand or other condition from which the vehicle can not be driven out under its own power, make sure to observe the precautions mentioned below. Otherwise, excessive stress will be put on the hook and the towing cable or chain may break, causing serious injury or damage. S If the towing vehicle can hardly move, do not forcibly continue the towing. Contact your Toyota dealer or a commercial tow truck service for assistance. S Tow the vehicle as straight ahead as possible. S Keep away from the vehicle during towing. The following methods are effective to use when your vehicle is stuck in the mud, sand or other condition from which the vehicle cannot be driven out under its own power. Use extreme caution when towing the vehicle. In addition, keep away from the vehicles and towing cable or chain when towing. S Remove the soil and sand in the front and the back of the tires. S Place stones or wood under the tires. If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever (two-wheel drive models) If you cannot shift the selector lever out of "P" position to other positions even though the brake pedal is depressed, use the shift lock override button as follows: 1. Turn the ignition key to "LOCK" position. Make sure the parking brake is set. 2. Pry up the cover with a flat-bladed screwdriver or equivalent. 176