1998 Pontiac Grand Am Owner's Manual - Page 196

Driving witha Trailer Towing a trailer requires certain amount experience. a of Before setting for the open road, you'll want to get out to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with feel of the handling and braking with added weightof the the trailer. And always keep in mind that vehicle you are the driving isnow a good deal longer and not nearly as is responsive as your vehicle by itself. Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you a would when driving your vehicle without trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Passing You'll need more passing distance up ahead when you're towing a trailer. And, because you're a good deal longer, you'll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before can return to your lane. you electrical connectionat the same time. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, If lamps, tires and mirror adjustment.the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller hand to be sure Backing Up by the brakes are working. This you check your lets Hold the bottomof the steeringwheel with onehand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand During your trip, check occasionally to be surethe that load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working. to the left.To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guideyou. 4-39