1998 Ford Taurus Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 103

Driving DRIVING THROUGH WATER Do not drive quickly through standing water, especially if the depth is unknown. Traction or brake capability may be limited and if the ignition system gets wet, your engine may stall. Water may also enter your engine's air intake and severely damage your engine. If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the hubs (truck)/wheel rims (car). Once through the water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. TRAILER TOWING Your vehicle is classified as a light duty towing vehicle. The amount of weight you can safely tow depends on the type of engine you have in your vehicle. Your vehicle does not come from the factory fully equipped to tow. No towing packages are available through Ford or Mercury/Lincoln dealers. Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 800 km (500 miles). If towing with a station wagon, inflate the rear tires to 35 psi. Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle's engine, transaxle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these components carefully after towing. The amount of weight that you can tow depends on the type of engine in your vehicle. See the following charts: 103