Driving -> RECREATIONAL TOWING (ALL WHEELS ON THE GROUND) for Your Ford Explorer SUV Third Generation (2002-2005)

Driving  
do not allow waves to break higher than 15 cm (6 inches) above the  
bottom edge of the rear bumper.  
Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components:  
causing internal damage to the components.  
affecting driveability, emissions and reliability.  
Replace the rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in  
water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed  
unless a leak is suspected or repair required.  
RECREATIONAL TOWING (ALL WHEELS ON THE GROUND)  
Follow these guidelines for your specific powertrain combination to tow  
your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground (such as behind a  
recreational vehicle).  
These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not  
damaged due to insufficient lubrication.  
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) 4x2 vehicles:  
This applies to all 4x2 trucks/sport utilities with rear wheel drive  
capability.  
Place the transmission in N (Neutral).  
Maximum speed is 56 km/h (35 mph).  
Maximum distance is 80 km (50 miles).  
If a distance of 80 km (50 miles) or a speed of 56 km/h (35 mph) must  
be exceeded, you must disconnect the driveshaft. Ford recommends the  
driveshaft be removed/installed only by a qualified technician. See your  
local dealer for driveshaft removal/installation.  
Improper removal/installation of the driveshaft can cause  
transmission fluid loss, damage to the driveshaft and internal  
transmission components.  
4x4 vehicles with electronic shift transfer case (Neutral tow kit  
accessory):  
On vehicles equipped with 4WD, an accessory is available that allows you  
to tow your vehicle, behind another vehicle, with all the wheels on the  
ground. Contact your dealer for more details. Do not tow your vehicle  
with all wheels on the ground unless you install the neutral tow kit as  
vehicle damage may occur.  
AWD vehicles:  
Vehicles equipped with AWD cannot be towed with any wheels on the  
ground as vehicle damage may occur.  
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2003 Explorer (exp)  
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)  
USA English (fus)