1998 Toyota 4Runner Owners Manual - Page 277

4RUNNER (1998) Only when you cannot receive a towing service from a Toyota dealer or commercial tow truck service, tow your vehicle carefully in accordance with the instructions given in "-Emergency towing" in this Part. Proper equipment will help ensure that your vehicle is not damaged while being towed. Commercial operators are generally aware of the state/provincial and local laws pertaining to towing. Your vehicle can be damaged if it is towed incorrectly. Although most operators know the correct procedure, it is possible to make a mistake. To avoid damage to your vehicle, make sure the following few precautions are observed. If necessary, show this page to the tow truck driver. 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 truck From front- with wheel lift type From rear-Place the ignition key in the "ACC" position. NOTICE z 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. z Do not tow with the key removed or in the "LOCK" position, as the steering lock mechanism is not strong enough to hold the front wheels straight while towing. (b) Using flat bed truck D Manual transmission: We recommend using a towing dolly under the rear wheels. If you do not use a towing dolly, release the parking brake and put the transmission in neutral. D Automatic transmission: Use a towing dolly under the rear wheels. NOTICE Never tow a vehicle with an automatic transmission from the front with the rear wheels on the ground, as this may cause serious damage to the transmission.