Ford 1996 Windstar Manual page 257

If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle
may be damaged or you may lose control and injure
someone.
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended
gross trailer weight exceeds the limits of the vehicle and
could result in engine damage, transaxle/axle damage,
structural damage, loss of control, and personal injury.
Preparing to Tow
For your safety and for the good of your vehicle, use the right
equipment for the type of trailer you tow. Also, make sure that
all towing equipment is properly attached to your vehicle. If
you are not certain that you are using the right equipment in
the proper manner, see your dealer or a reliable trailer dealer.
Hitches
For towing trailers up to 2,000 lbs. (907 kg), use a good
weight-carrying hitch and hitch ball which uniformly distributes
the trailer tongue load through the underbody structure.
Do not use single clamp bumper hitches or hitches that attach
to the axle.
Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure
all mounting holes in the underbody are properly sealed to
prevent exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle.
Driving Your Windstar
RWARNING
RWARNING
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