General instructions
The tow rope must be flexible so as not to damage both vehicles. Only rope made of synthetic fibers or similar elastic materials should be used. However, it is safer to use a rigid tug.
It is necessary to constantly monitor that there is no unacceptably large traction, and at the same time there are no jerks when towing. When towing a vehicle on the edge of an improved dirt road, there is always a risk that the shoulder will be overloaded and collapse.
Before trying to start the engine by towing, if possible, use the battery of another vehicle as a booster battery to start the engine - see previous pages.
Both drivers must be aware of the peculiarities of driving a car when towing. Inexperienced drivers should not be behind the wheel of either vehicle.
When using a tow rope, the driver of the towing vehicle must release the clutch pedal particularly smoothly when starting off and changing gears.
The driver of the vehicle being towed must ensure that the tow rope is constantly taut.
Both vehicles must have the appropriate lights on and other towing requirements in accordance with current regulations «traffic rules».
The ignition must be on so that the steering is not blocked, and you can turn on the direction indicators, horn, wipers and washers if necessary.
The vacuum booster of the service brake system performs its function only when the engine is running, therefore, when the engine is turned off, it is necessary to press the brake pedal much harder when braking.
Since the power steering does not function when the engine is not running, it is necessary to apply more force to the steering wheel when turning.
If there is no oil in a manual transmission or a special fluid in an automatic transmission, it is necessary to tow the car only with the drive wheels hung out.
When towing a distance of more than 50 km, you must hang the front wheels of the car.
The towline or rigid tug should only be attached to the specially provided towing eyelets.
Pic. 1.95. Front towing eye
To access the front towing eye, first remove the cover (pic. 1.95).
Pic. 1.96. Vehicles with detachable towing eye
The towing eye has a left-hand thread. Screw in the towing eye as far as it will go and tighten securely with the wheel wrench (pic. 1.96).
After towing, unscrew the eyelet and stow it together with the on-board tool. The towing eye should always be carried with you. Replace the cover.
Pic. 1.97. Rear towing eye
The rear towing eye is located at the rear right under the bumper (pic. 1.97).
Towing to start the engine
Towing to start the engine is undesirable for the following reasons:
- with such towing, there is a high probability of hitting a towing vehicle;
- When towing a gasoline vehicle, unburned fuel may enter the catalytic converter and cause damage.
If it is nevertheless necessary to tow the vehicle in order to start the engine, the driver of the vehicle being towed must follow the rules below.
Before towing, engage 2nd or 3rd gear, depress the clutch pedal and keep it depressed.
Turn on the ignition.
When both vehicles are in motion, release the clutch pedal.
As soon as the engine starts, depress the clutch pedal and shift out of gear to avoid hitting the towing vehicle.
Starting the engine of a car with an automatic transmission by towing is not possible due to design features.
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