1996 Chevrolet Cavalier Owner's Manual - Page 200

Driving with a Trailer Passing You'll need more passing distance ahead when up Towing a trailer requires a certain amount experience. of a good deal Before setting out for the open road, you'll want to get you're towing a trailer. And, because you're longer, you'll need to go much farther beyond the to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with feel of the passed vehicle before you can return your lane. to handling and braking with the added weightthe of trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are Backing Up driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. responsive as your vehicle by itself. is Then, to move the trailer to the left, move that hand just Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform to the left. To move the trailerthe right, move your to (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. the trailer has If possible, have someone guide you. electric brakes,start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure Making n r n s the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you making very sharp turns while trailering. would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This turns can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking When you're turning with a trailer, make wider than and sudden turns. normal. Do this so your trailer won't strikesoft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. jerky or Avoid sudden maneuvers.Signal well in advance. During your trip, check occasionally be sure that the to load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working. I NOTICE: 4-38