2003 Chevrolet Express Van Owner's Manual - Page 110

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn't connect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NE1 L (N) when your vehicle is being towed. IT- DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you're: Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. I I You'll shift down to the next gear and have more power. Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don't shift into a drive gear while your engine is racing. 3: THIRD ( ) This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than DRIVE (D). You should use THIRD ( 3 ) when carrying a heavy load or driving on steep hills. You should use THIRD (3) (or, as you need to, a lower gear) when towing a trailer to minimize heat build-up and extend the life of your transmission. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. If you manually select SECOND (2), the transmission will drive in SECOND (2). You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. 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. 2-25