1995 Chevrolet Blazer Owner's Manual - Page 166

Driving Guidelines This multipurpose passenger vehicle is defined a utility vehicle in as Consumer Information Regulations issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the United States Department of Transportation. Utility vehicles have higher ground clearance and a narrower track to make them capable of performing in a wide varietyof off-road applications. Specific design characteristicsgive them a higher center of gravity than ordinary cars. An advantage of the higher ground clearance is a better view of the road allowing youto anticipate problems. They are not designed for cornering at the same speeds conventional as 2-wheel drive vehicles any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. at all possible, avoid If sharp turnsor abrupt maneuvers. As with other vehiclesof this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly result in loss of control or vehicle may rollover. Off-Road Driving with Your Four-wheel Drive Vehicle This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel drive. Also, see "Anti-Lock Brakes" in the Index. If your vehicle doesn't have four-wheel drive, you shouldn't driveoff-road unless you'reon a level, solid surface. Off-road driving can be greatfun. But it does have some definite hazards. The greatest of these is the terrainitself. "Off-roading" means you've left the great North American road system behind. Traffic lanes aren't marked. Curves aren't banked. There are no road signs. Surfaces can be slippery, rough, uphill or downhill. In short, you've gone right back to nature. Off-road driving involves some new skills. And that's why it's very important that you read this guide. You'll find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help make your off-road driving safer and more enjoyable. Before You Go Off-Roading There are some things todo before you go out. For example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance and service work Check to make sure all done. underbody shields (ifso equipped) are properly attached. Be sure read you all the information about your four-wheel drive vehicle in this manual. Is there enoughfuel? Is the spare tire fully inflated? Are the fluid levels up where they shouldbe? What are the local laws that apply to off-roading where you'llbe driving? If you don't know,you should check with law enforcement people in the area. Will be on someone's private land? you If so, be sure to get the necessary permission. 4- 12