1997 Chevrolet Astro Owner's Manual - Page 222

2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumpercables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren't touching each other. If they are, it could cause aground connection you don't want. You wouldn't be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P). 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter oraccessory power outlets. Turn off all lamps that aren't needed as well as radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. In addition, it could save your radio! NOTICE: I Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water.You don't need toadd water to the Delco Freedom@battery installed in every GM vehicle. Butif a new battery has filler caps,be sure the right amount of fluid is there.f it is low, add water to take care I of that first. If'you don't, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid can burn you. that Don't getit on you. If you accidentally get in it your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medicalhelp immediately. I If you leaveyour radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn't be covered by your warranty. 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each battery.