Mercury 1996 Cougar Manual page 167

The positions of the console-mounted gearshift
Once the gearshift is secure in the desired
position, release the brake pedal and use the
accelerator as necessary.
R (Reverse)
With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position,
the vehicle will move backward. You should
always come to a complete stop before shifting
into or out of R (Reverse).
N (Neutral)
In N (Neutral), the wheels of the transmission
are not locked. Your vehicle will roll freely, even
on the slightest incline, unless the parking brake
or brakes are on.
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