1996 GMC Jimmy Owner's Manual - Page 168

Before You Go Off-RoadingThere are some things to dobefore 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 allthe information about your four-wheel-drive vehicle in this manual. there enough fuel? Is the.spare Is tire fully inflated? Are the fluid levels 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 beon someone's private land? If so, be sure to get the necessary permission. Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving There are some important things to remember about how to loadyour vehicle. The heaviest things should be on the load floorand forward of your rear axle.Put heavier items as far forward as you can. Be sure the load issecured properly, so driving on the off-road terrain doesn't toss things around. ~ Cargo on the load floor piled highe:: than the seatbacks can be thrown forwa:*d during a sudden stop. You or your passengers could 'be injured.Keep argo below the topof the seatbacks. Unsecured cargo on the load floor an be tossed about when driving over rough terrain. You or your passengers ca be struck by flying objects. Secure the cargo properly. Heavy loads on the roof raise the v hide's center of gravity, making it more ely to li roll over. You can be seriouslyor f tally injured if the vehicle rolls over. Pu heavy loads inside the cargo area, not on roof. the Keep cargo in the cargo area as forward far and low as possible. / In You'll find other important information inthis manual. See "Vehicle Loading," "Luggage.Carrier" and "Tires" in the Index. 4-15