2002 Chevrolet Express Van Owner's Manual - Page 235

1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. NOTICE: If the other system isn't a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. If you have a vehicle with a diesel engine with two batteries (or more) you should know before you begin that, especially in cold weather, you may not be able to get enough power from a single battery in another vehicle to start your diesel engine. If your vehicle has more than one battery, use the battery that's closer to the starter -- this will reduce electrical resistance. 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren't touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground 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) or a manual transmission in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake. NOTICE: If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or in the accessory power outlet. Turn off the radio and all lamps that aren't needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio! 5-4