1997 GMC Safari Owner's Manual - Page 95

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 NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing,and you're: Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (56 kmk) or more, push the accelerator pedal all way down. You'll shift the down to the next gear and have more power. Shifting out oi (P) or P UTRAL (N) 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 losecontrol and hit people or objects. Don'tshift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing. I DRIVE (D) should be used for normal towing. THIRD (3): 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 aheavy load or driving on steep hills. SECOND (2): This position gives more power but you lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help controlyour 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 gear. 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 yourtransmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) NEUTRAL (N) with the or engine racing isn't covered byyour warranty.