1996 Chevrolet Astro Owner's Manual - Page 73

Ensure the shift leveris fully in PARK (P) range before startingthe engine. Your vehicle has abrake-transmission shift interlock.You have to fully apply your regular brakes beforeyou can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the RUN position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever- push the shift leverall the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application.Then move the shift leverinto the gear you wish. See "Shifting Out of PARK (P)" in this section. REVERSE (R) - Use this gear to back up. NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transmission. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get outof snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see"If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow'' in the Index. NEUTRAL (N) - In this position, your engine doesn'tconnect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. A CAUTION: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed)is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brakepedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could losecontrol and hitpeople or objects. Don't shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing. NOTICE: Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty. 2- 19