1998 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 205

Driving witha Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount experience. of Befm setting out for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the of feel handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle are you driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind vehicle aheadas you the would when drivingyour vehicle withouta trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and suddenturns. Passing You'll need more passing distanceup ahead when you're towing a trailer. And, because you're a good deal longer, you'll need to much farther beyond go the passed vehicle before can return to your lane. you Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment.the trailerhas If electric brakes,start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure Backing Up the brakes are working. lets you check your This Hold the bottom the steering wheel with hand. of one electrical connection at the same time. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left.To move the trailer to the right, move your During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the up hand to the right. Always back slowly and,if load is secure, and that the lamps and trailer brakes any possible, have someone guide you. are still working. 4-36