1997 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 147

TOWING PRECAUTIONS: Use a safety chain system for all towing, and abide by the state/provincial and local laws. The wheels and axle on the ground must be in good condition. If they are damaged, use a towing dolly. Two-wheel drive models- (a) Towing with wheel lift type truck From front-Release the parking brake. S NOTICE Do not tow with the key removed or in the "LOCK" position when towing from the rear without a towing dolly. The steering lock mechanism is not strong enough to hold the front wheels straight. Automatic transmission: Use a towing dolly under the front wheels. NOTICE When lifting wheels, take care to ensure adequate ground clearance for towing at the opposite end of the raised vehicle. Otherwise, the bumper and/or underbody of the towed vehicle will be damaged during towing. From rear- S Manual transmission: We recommend using a towing dolly under the front wheels. If you do not use a towing dolly, place the ignition key in the "ACC" position and put the transmission in neutral. NOTICE Never tow a vehicle with an automatic transmission from the rear with the front wheels on the ground, as this may cause serious damage to the transmission. (b) Using a flat bed truck Four-wheel drive models- (a) Towing with a wheel lift type truck Using a towing dolly under the wheels not lifted by the truck. (b) Using flat bed truck All models- (c) Towing with sling type truck NOTICE Do not tow with sling type truck, either from the front or rear. This may cause body damage. 144