Ford RTS 2002 Towing PDF Manual

General Information An air bag is highly unlikely to deploy during wrecker towing. Standard wrecker towing or recovery procedures on an air bag equipped vehicle should not cause air bag deployment. Only a significant frontal or side (if equipped with side air bags) impact that closes two crash sensors will deploy an air bag.

NOTE: Turning the ignition switch to OFF may not disable the Ford air bag system. Some older model air bag deployment systems operate independently of the ignition key position. Wrecker Towing a Vehicle with Deployed Air Bags • Deployed air bags are not dangerous. • Any powdery residue consists of corn starch or talcum powder and sodium compounds, mostly sodium carbonates (e.g., baking soda) accompanied by very minute deposits of sodium hydroxide that can be irritating to the skin and eyes but poses no long term health hazard.

Towing Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles with Electronic Shift Transfer Case o Place the transmission (automatic or manual) in N (NEUTRAL). o Place the transfer case in 2H (HIGH). NOTE: Both the 4×4 and LOW RANGE indicator lights will be off when the transfer case is in 2H (HIGH). 3.Disengage the automatic locking hubs. Once these three conditions are met, follow instructions for towing two-wheel drive vehicles. Towing speed is limited to 35 mph (55 km/h) and 50 miles (80 km) with the drive wheels on the ground.

Flat Beds
When using a flatbed to transport a vehicle, always use T-hooks inserted in the appropriate tie down slot. Never fasten J-hooks to any suspension or driveline component because J-hooks will damage driveline and suspension components. When using winches, take care to avoid damaging the bumper system, lower body panels, or air dams. On vehicles equipped with an air suspension system, be sure the air suspension service switch is turned off prior to vehicle tie down. Refer to Owner Guide for switch location.
CAUTION: Improperly tying down a disabled vehicle may damage the vehicle’s suspension, driveline or body parts.

Towing Slings
To avoid possible damage to bumper system, lower body panels, or air dams, a belt sling should be used to lift and tow all vehicles. When attaching towing slings, take care to avoid damage to license plate and frame, or fog lamps, if equipped.

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