1999 CADILLAC CATERA weight

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4-32

Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you
tow a trailer, don't drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and
don't make starts at full throttle. This helps your
engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.

Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a trailer.
Don't drive faster than the maximum posted speed
for trailers (or no more than 55 mph (90 km/h)) to
save wear on your vehicle's parts.
Three important considerations have to do with weight:

the weight of the trailer,

the weight of the trailer tongue

and the total weight on your vehicle's tires.
Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It should never weigh more than 1,000 lbs. (454 kg).
But even that can be too heavy.
It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For
example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside
temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a
trailer are all important. And, it can also depend on any
special equipment that you have on your vehicle.You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or
advice, or you can write us at:
Cadillac Customer Assistance Center
Cadillac Motor Car Division
P.O. Box 436004
Pontiac, MI 48343
-6004
In Canada, write to:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important
weight to measure because it affects the total or gross
weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight
(GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any
cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be
riding in the vehicle. And if you tow a trailer, you must
add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle
will be carrying that weight, too. See ªLoading Your
Vehicleº in the Index for more information about your
vehicle's maximum load capacity.

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4-33
If you're using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer
tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded
trailer weight (B). If you have a weight
-distributing
hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of
the total loaded trailer weight (B).
After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are
proper. If they aren't, you may be able to get them right
simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires
Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper
limit for cold tires. You'll find these numbers on the
Tire
-Loading Information label at the rear edge of the
driver's door or see ªLoading Your Vehicleº in the
Index. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit
for your vehicle, including the weight of the
trailer tongue.
Hitches
It's important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a
few reasons why you'll need the right hitch. Here are
some rules to follow:

The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for
hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other
bumper
-type hitches to it. Use only a frame-mounted
hitch that does not attach to the bumper.

Will you have to make any holes in the body of your
vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do,
then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove
the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly carbon
monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your
vehicle (see ªCarbon Monoxideº in the Index). Dirt
and water can, too.

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4-34 Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle
and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue
of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road
if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions
about safety chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety
chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always
leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig.
And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
Because your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, don't try to
tap into the hydraulic brake system. If you do, both
brake systems won't work well, or at all.
Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer
brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust and maintain
them properly.
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 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, electrical connector,
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 be sure
the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes
are still working.
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 sudden turns.

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8-5
Folding the Rear Seat 1-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign Countries, Fuel 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
French Language Manual ii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front Turn Signal Lamp, Bulb Replacement 6
-33 . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel 6-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cap Indicator Light 2-75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Door Lock 6-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling a Portable Container 6-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling Your Tank 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gage 2-74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In Foreign Countries 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuse Block, Instrument Panel 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuse Block, Power Distribution 6-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses and Circuit Breakers 6-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gages
Engine Coolant Temperature 2-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel 2-74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Pressure 2-72 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Garment Hooks 2-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gear Positions, Automatic Transmission 2-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glove Box 2-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities 7-5 . . . . .
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials 6-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Guide en Fran†ais ii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Halogen Bulbs 6-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Handles, Assist 2-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hazard Warning Flashers 5-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Head Restraints 1
-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlamps 2-41, 6-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aiming 6-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bulb Replacement 6-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High/Low Beam 2-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Reminder 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper-Activated 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring 6-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hearing Impaired, Customer Assistance 7-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heated Backlite Antenna 3-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heated Rearview Mirrors 2-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heated Seats 1-4, 1-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heating 3-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High-Beam Headlamps 2-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Highway Hypnosis 4-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hill and Mountain Roads 4-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hitches 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hood
Checking Things Under 6
-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Release 6-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Horn 2-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank 5-13 . . . . . . .
How to Use this Manual v. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydraulic Brake Warning Lights 2
-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydroplaning 4-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow 5-28 . . . . . . . . .
Ignition Positions 2-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Illuminated Entry 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Illuminated Visor Vanity Mirror 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Immobilizer 2-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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8-11
Top Strap 1-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque Lock 2-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque, Wheel Bolt 5-26, 6-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing a Trailer 4-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing, Recreational Vehicle 4-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing Your Vehicle 5-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction
Control System 4
-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Control System Warning Light 2-68, 4-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trailer
Backing Up 4
-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brakes 4-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving on Grades 4-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving with 4-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Cooling When Towing 4-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Following Distance 4-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hitches 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance When Towing 4-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Making Turns 4-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking on Hills 4-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Passing 4-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety Chains 4-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tongue Weight 4-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing 4-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals When Towing 4-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight 4-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Training a Garage Door Opener with
ªRolling Codesº 2
-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmission Fluid , Automatic 6-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmitter, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System 2-7 . . . . . .
Transmitter, Universal 2-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transportation, Courtesy 7
-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trip Odometer 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trunk 2-11
Ajar Light 2-74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mounted CD Changer 3-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Release 2-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TTY Users 7-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn and Lane Change Signals 2-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever 2-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer 4-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Twilight Sentinel
2-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underbody Maintenance 6-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Understanding Radio Reception 3-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Universal Transmitter 2-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Erasing Channels 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating 2-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Programming 2-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Training a Garage Door Opener with
ªRolling Codesº 2
-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle
Control 4-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Damage Warnings vi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions 6
-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identification Number (VIN) 6-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Symbols vii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ventilation System 3
-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visor Vanity Mirror, Illuminated 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visors, Sun 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltmeter 2-65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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8-12
Warning Devices, Other 5-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warranty Information 7-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Washing Your Vehicle 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weatherstrips 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight of the Trailer 4-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight of the Trailer Tongue 4-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheel
Alignment and Tire Balance 6
-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bolt Torque 5-26, 6-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacement 6-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wrench 5-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Where to Put Child Restraints 1-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windows 2-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-Pinch Feature 2-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power 2
-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Programming the Power Windows 2-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear Lockout 2-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield
Washer 2
-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Washer Fluid 2-36, 6-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper Blades, Cleaning 6-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper Fuses 6-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wipers 2-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wipers, Blade Replacement 6-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Winter Driving 4-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper-Activated Headlamps 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring, Headlamp 6-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wrench, Wheel 5-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .