2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab Owner Manual - Page 343

Driving and Operating 9-75 Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips Driving with a Trailer When towing a trailer: . { WARNING When towing a trailer, exhaust gases may collect at the rear of the vehicle and enter if the liftgate, trunk/hatch, or rear-most window is open. When towing a trailer: . Become familiar with the state and local laws that apply to trailer towing. Do not tow a trailer during the first 800 km (500 mi) to prevent damage to the engine, axle, or other parts. Then during the first 800 km (500 mi) of trailer towing, do not drive over 80 km/h (50 mph) and do not make starts at full throttle. Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shift the transmission to a lower gear if the transmission shifts too often under heavy loads and/ or hilly conditions. Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. The combination you are driving is longer and not as responsive as the vehicle itself. Get acquainted with the handling and braking of the rig before setting out for the open road. Before starting, check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connectors, lamps, tires, and mirrors. If the trailer has electric brakes, start the combination moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes work. During the trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure and the lamps and any trailer brakes still work. . Do not drive with the liftgate, trunk/hatch, or rear-most window open. Fully open the air outlets on or under the instrument panel. Also adjust the climate control system to a setting that brings in only outside air. See "Climate Control System" in the Index. . . . . Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving the vehicle without a trailer. This can help to avoid heavy braking and sudden turns. For more information about Carbon Monoxide, see Engine Exhaust on page 9‑32.