1993 Oldsmobile Silhouette Owner's Manual - Page 183

1 Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind thatthe vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly so responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform, safety chains, electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle andtrailer moving and then applythe trailer brake controller by hand to besure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. If you have a rear-most window open and you pull a m l e r with your'vehicle, carbon monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle. You can't see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness or death (see the I n h under Engine E h u b . x a s ) To maximize your safety when towing a trailer: H v your exhaust system ae inspected for leaks, and Make necessary y i r s before starting on your trip. e KWP the =-most windows closed. If exhaust does corne into your vehicle through a window in the fear or another opening, drive with your front, m i heating or an cmling system on and with the fan on any speed. This W U bring fresh, outside air into your vehicle. Do not use RECIRC @ I During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working. because it only recirculates the air imide y w r vehick, See the Index under Comfort &m&. Following Distance Stay at least 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 suddenturns. 0 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.