1995 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 146

Remember: If you have the four-wheel anti-lock braking system, it helps avoid only the braking skid. The rear-wheel anti-lock braking system helps avoid only a rear braking skid. In a braking skid (where the front wheels are no longer rolling), release enough pressure on the brakes to get the front wheels rolling again. This restores steering control. Push the brake pedal down steadily when you have to stop suddenly. As long as the front wheels are rolling, you will have steering control. Driving Guidelines Off-Road Driving with Your Four-wheel Drive Vehicle This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel drive. Also, see "Anti-Lock Brakes" in the Index. If your vehicle doesn't have four-wheel drive, you shouldn't drive off-road unless you're on a level, solid surface. Off-road driving canbe great fun.But it does have some definite hazards. The greatest of these is the terrain itself. "Off-roading" means you've left the great North American road system behind. Traffic lanes aren't marked. Curves aren'tbanked. There are no road signs. Surfaces can be slippery, rough, uphill or downhill. In short, you've gone right back to nature. Off-road driving involves some new skills. And that's why it's very important that you read this guide. You'll find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help make your off-road driving safer and more enjoyable. Before You Go Off-Roading There are somethings to do before you go out. For example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance and service work done. Check to make sure all underbody shields (if so equipped) areproperly attached. Be sure you read all the information about your four-wheel drive vehicle in this manual. Is there enough fuel?Is the spare tire fully inflated? Are the fluid levels up where they should be? What are thelocal laws that apply to off-roading where you'll be driving? If you don't know, you should check with law enforcement people in the area.Will you be on someone's private land? If so, be sure toget the necessary permission. 4-12