1998 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 206

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 the road 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 just enough slack so you canturn with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. mxore you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to besure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure thatthe load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working, Trailer Brakes Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to read and follow instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not t y to tap into r your vehicle'sbrake system. If you ldo,both brake systems won't work well, atall. or Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a 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 you can return to your lane. Driving with a Trailer Towing atrailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road,,you'll want to get to know yourrig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep inmind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. 4-38