1995 Chevrolet Astro Owner's Manual - Page 168

Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feelof handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are drivingis now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electricbrakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This letsyou check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working. 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. 4-30