1997 GMC Safari Owner's Manual - Page 212

Towing a trailerrequires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for theopen road, you'll want to get to know yourrig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electricalconnector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to besure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionallyto be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working. Passing You'll need more passing distance up ahead when you're towing a trailer. And, because you're a good deal longer, you'll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, tomove the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer tothe right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you. Making Turns I NOTICE: Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering. When you're turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won't strikesoft shoulders, curbs, road signs, treesor other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance. I Following Distance Stay atleast twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns.