1996 Buick Riviera Owner's Manual - Page 191

Safety Chains Driving with a Trailer You should always attach chains between your vehicle Towing a trailer requires certain amount experience, a of and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongueBefore setting out for the open road, y0u711 want get to so of of the ,trailer that the'tongue will not drop to the road to know yourrig. Acquaint yourself with the fkel of the if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions handling and braking with the -added weight about safety chains may be.providedby the hitch trailer. And always keepin mind that the vehicle, you are as manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the driving is now a good deal 1onger.and not nearly manufacturer's zieccimmeadationfor attaching safety responsive as your vehicle is by itsel€. to chains and do not attach them the bumper. Always Before you start, check the trailu hitch and platform rig: leave just enough slackso you can turn with your (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, And, never allow safety chains to drag the ground. on lamps, tires and mirror adjustment.If the trailer has Trailer Brakes Does your trailer have its brakes? own Be sure to read andfollow the instructions for the trailer brakesso you'll be able to-install,adjust md maintahi them properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, not try to tap into do your vehicle's brake system.. If you do, both brake systems won.'t work-well,or at all. electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand sure to.be the brakes are working. lets yau check your This sarne time. electrical connection at the During your trip, check occasionally to sure thatthe be load is secure, and that the 1-amps and trailer brakes any are still working. Following Distance Stay at least twice far behind the vehicle ahead you as as would when driving your vehicle w i . ~ o ua trailer. This t can helpyou avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns.