BMW 745I Automobile User Manual


 
Giving and receiving assistance
204
this could lead to damage that might ulti-
mately result in an accident.<
To avoid jerking and the associated
stresses on vehicle components when
towing, always use either a tow bar or a
nylon rope.
Keep the vehicles in line, taking care
to avoid towing at an offset angle, and
make certain that the tow rope connecting
the two vehicles is tight before starting
off.<
Tow bars
The tow fittings used should be on the
same side on both vehicles.
Should it prove impossible to avoid moun-
ting the tow bar at an offset angle, please
observe the following:
> Clearance and maneuvering capability
will be strictly limited in corners
> When mounted at an angle, the tow bar
will exert lateral forces, tending to push
the vehicle sideways.
Never use a vehicle to tow another
vehicle that is heavier than itself, as
this could lead to a loss of control.<
Towing
Do not tow the vehicle by the rear
axle; because the steering detent is
not operational, the wheels could turn to an
extreme angle during towing.<
1. Turn on the ignition to allow operation
of the brake lamps, turn signal indica-
tors, horn, parking brake and winds-
hield wipers
2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers
where allowed by law
3. Release the transmission lockout man-
ually, refer to page 70
4. Towing speed:
maximum of 45 mph (70 km/h)
5. Towing distance:
maximum of 90 miles (150 km).
If the electrical system in the towed vehicle
has failed, use an alternate means to iden-
tify the vehicle as being towed such as a
sign or warning triangle placed in the rear
window.
The steering and brakes are without
power assistance when the engine is
off. This means that higher levels of effort
will be required to operate the steering and
brakes.<
Tow-starting
It is not possible to start the engine by tow-
starting the vehicle.
Jump-starting, refer to page 203.
Have the source of the starting difficulties
diagnosed and repaired at your BMW
center.
Towing with a commercial tow truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment
> Use a wheel lift or flatbed carrier
> Please comply with applicable towing
laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in a
towed vehicle for any reason.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 197 - © 11/02 BMW AG