1995 GMC Jimmy Owner's Manual - Page 166

Driving Guidelines This multipurpose passenger vehicle is defined as a utility vehiclein 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 characteristics give them a higher center of gravity than ordinarycars. An advantage of the higherground clearance is a better view of the road allowing you to anticipate problems. They are not designed for cornering at thesame speeds as conventional 2-wheel drive vehicles any more than low-slungsports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-roadconditions. If at all possible, avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers. As withother vehicles of thistype, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in of control or vehicle loss rollover. Off-Road Driving with Your Four-wheel Drive Vehicle This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheeldrive. Also, see "Anti-Lock Brakes" in the Index. If your vehicle doesn'thave four-wheel drive, you shouldn't drive off-road unless you're on a level, solid surface. Off-road driving can be greatfun. But it does have some definite hazards. The greatest of these is the terrain itself. "Off-roading" means you've left the greatNorth 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 whyit's very important that you readthis guide. You'll find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help make your off-roaddriving safer and more enjoyable. Before You Go Off-Roading There aresome things to do before you go out.For example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance and service work done. Check to make sure all underbody shields (if so equipped) are properly attached. Be sure you read all the information about your four-wheel drive vehicle in this manual. Is there enough fuel? Is the spare tire fully inflated? Are the fluidlevels up where they should be? What are the local laws that apply to off-roading where you'll be driving? If you don't know, you should check with law enforcement people in the area. Will you be on someone's private land? If so, be sure to get the necessary permission. 4-12