1998 Oldsmobile Aurora Owner's Manual - Page 212

Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper limit forcold tires. You'll find these numbers on the Tire-Loading Information label at the rear edge of the driver's door or see "Loading Your Vehicle" in the Index. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to theroad if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always leave justenough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. Hitches It's important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you'll need the right hitch, Here are some rules to follow: The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to it. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper. Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailerhitch? If you do, then be sure toseal the holes laterwhen you remove the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle (see "Carbon Monoxide" in the Index). Dirt and water can, too. Trailer Brakes Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjustand maintain them properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, donot try to tap into your vehicle's brake system. If you do, both brake systems won't work well, or at all.