1996 Pontiac Bonneville Owner's Manual - Page 203

Driving with a nailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before seffingout for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig, Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weightthe of trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving isnow a gooddeal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check trailer hitch and platform the (and attachments), safety chains, elec.ical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes,start your vehicleand trailer movingand then apply the trailer brake controllerhand to be sure' by the brakes are working. lets you check your This electrical connectionat the same time. During your trip, check occasionally be sure that the to, load is secure, and that the lamps any trailer brakes and are still working. Following Distance Stay at least twice far behind the vehicle ahead you as as would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can helpyou avoid situations require heavy braking that and suddentuns. Passing You'll need more passing distance up ahead when yuu're, towing a trailer. because you're a good deal And, longer, you'll need go much farther beyond the to passed vehicle before you return to your lane. can Backing Up Hold thebottom of the steering wheel one hand. with Then, to move the trailer to the just move that hand left, to the left. To move thetrailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you. I I : 4-36