1996 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 176

If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer NOTICE: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly,follow the advice in this part, and see your dealer GM for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle. Every vehicle is ready for some trailer towing. If yours was built with trailering options, a s many are, it's ready for heavier trailers. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment. and it has to be used properly. That's the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer. If you do, here are some important points: 0 There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions. having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where YOLI'II be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. Consider using a sway control if your trailer will weigh 2,000 lbs, (900 kg) or less. You should always use a sway control if your trailer will weigh more than 2.000 Ibs. (900 kg). YOLI ask a hitch dealer can about sway controls. Don't tow a trailer at a l l during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Y O L I ~ engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. Then, during the first 500 miles (800 k m ) that YOLI tow ti trailer. don't drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don't make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. 0 0 0 4-48