1997 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 248

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. - Then pull the hood down firmly to close.It will latch when dropped from 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) without pressing on the hood. Engine Oil It's a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. The oil dipstick on the "VORTEC" 4300 engine is a yellow ring. F 6-10