Ford ZD Escape Series Manual page 92

If you must reduce the tyre pressure for
whatever reason in sand, make sure you
re-infl ate the tyres as soon as possible.
Avoid excessive speed because vehicle
momentum can work against you and
cause the vehicle to become stuck
to the point that assistance may be
required from another vehicle.
Remember, you may be able to back out
the way you came if you proceed with
caution.
Mud
Be cautious of sudden changes in
vehicle speed or direction when you are
driving in mud. Even 4WD vehicles can
lose traction in slick mud.
As when you are driving over sand, apply
the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning
your wheels. If the vehicle does slide,
steer in the direction of the slide until you
regain control of the vehicle.
After driving through mud, clean off
residue stuck to rotating driveshafts and
tyres. Excess mud stuck on tyres and
rotating driveshafts causes an imbalance
that could damage vehicle components.
Water
Before driving through water, determine
the depth. Avoid water higher than the
bottom of the wheel hubs. Proceed
slowly to avoid splashing. If the ignition
system gets wet, the vehicle may stall.
Driving hints
After driving through water, dry
the brakes by driving slowly and
applying the brakes lightly until brake
performance is normal.
Water intrusion into the transaxle
may damage the transaxle.
If the transaxle Power Take Off unit, or
rear axle, are submerged in water, their
fl uids should be checked and changed, if
necessary.
Rear axle lubricant quantities should also
be checked if a leak is suspected.
Deep snow
When driving through deep snow, shift to
a low gear and maintain steady pressure
on the accelerator. This will help prevent
spinning the wheels while maintaining
suffi cient momentum to keep from
bogging down. Using snow chains will
also help.
Use snow chains only on the front
wheels.
Do not exceed 40 km/h when the
chains are fi tted.
Remove the snow chains
immediately on roads free of
snow and ice.
If snow chains are fi tted to your
vehicle, ensure that they are fi tted
properly. Incorrectly fi tted chains may
cause damage to your vehicle.
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WARNING
WARNING
CAUTION