1996 GMC Safari Owner's Manual - Page 229

If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud,Ice or Snow What you don't want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as "rocking" can help you get out when you're stuck, but you must use caution. NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts your of vehicle as well as the tires. Ifyou spin the wheels too fastwhile shifting your transmission back and forth,you can destroy your transmission. For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see "Tire Chains" in the Index. If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can explode, andyou or others could be injured. And, the transmission other parts of the or vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage. When you're as stuck, spin the wheels little as possible. Don't spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer. Rocking your vehicle to get it out: First, turn your steering wheel le.ft and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels.Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is in gear. If that doesn't get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. If you do need to be towed out, see "Towing Your Vehicle" in the Index. 4-37