2001 Oldsmobile Silhouette Owner's Manual - Page 296

Load-pulling components such as the engine, transaxle, wheel assemblies and tires are forced to work harder against the drag of the added weight. The engine is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads, generating extra heat. What's more, the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements. D Don't tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. tow a 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. a lower gear) when towing a trailer. Operating your vehicle in THIRD (3) when towing a trailer will minimize heat buildup and extend the life of your transaxle. D Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points: D You can use THIRD (3) (or, as you need to, D 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 you'll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. Three important considerations have to do with weight: D Consider using a sway control if your trailer will weigh 2,000 lbs. (900kg) or less. You should always use a sway control if your trailer will weigh more than 2,000 lbs. (900kg). You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. D the weight of the trailer, D the weight of the trailer tongue D and the weight on your vehicle's tires. 4-35