
yellowblue
4-54
C-3500 HD Chassis Cab
Engine (Trans.) Axle Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.
6.5L Diesel
(Auto.)4.63 9,000 lbs. (4 086 kg)
5.13 10,000 lbs.* (4 540 kg)
7.4L 4.63 12,000 lbs.* (5 448 kg)
5.13 12,000 lbs.* (5 448 kg)
*Fifth
-wheel hitch rating; weight-distributing hitch
rating is limited to 10,000 lbs. (4 540 kg).
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or
advice, or you can write us at the address listed in your
Warranty and Owner Assistance Information Booklet.
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 will 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.

yellowblue
4-55
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're using 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
Certification label at the rear edge of the driver's door or
see ªTire Loadingº 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:
If you use a step
-bumper hitch, your bumper could
be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure you have
ample room when turning to avoid contact between
the trailer and the bumper.
If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than the capacity stamped on your step
bumper, be sure to use a properly mounted,
weight
-distributing hitch and sway control of the
proper size. This equipment is very important for
proper vehicle loading and good handling when
you're driving.

yellowblue
4-56 Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle and
your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the
trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting 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. Never allow safety chains to
drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs. (450 kg)
loaded, then it needs its own brakes
-- and they must be
adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for
the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, adjust and
maintain them properly.
Your trailer brake system can tap into the vehicle's
hydraulic brake system only if:
The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi
(20 650 kPa) of pressure.The trailer's brake system will use less than
0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle's
master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems
won't work well. You could even lose your brakes.
If everything checks out this far, make the brake tap at the
port on the master cylinder that sends the fluid to the rear
brakes. But don't use copper tubing for this. If you do, it
will bend and finally break off. Use steel brake tubing.
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.

yellowblue
6-12
Noise Control System
The following information relates to compliance with
Federal noise emission standards for vehicles with a
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than
10,000 lbs. (4 536 kg). The Maintenance Schedule
provides information on maintaining the noise control
system to minimize degradation of the noise emission
control system during the life of your vehicle.
The noise control system warranty is given in your
Warranty booklet.
These standards apply only to vehicles sold in the
United States.
Tampering With Noise Control
System Prohibited
Federal law prohibits the following acts or the
causing thereof:
1. The removal or rendering inoperative by any person,
other than for purposes of maintenance, repair or
replacement, of any device or element of design
incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose of
noise control, prior to its sale or delivery to the
ultimate purchaser or while it is in use; or
2. The use of the vehicle after such device or element
of design has been removed or rendered inoperative
by any person.

yellowblue
9-5
Gages
Engine Coolant Temperature 2-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Oil Pressure 2-72 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel 2-75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speedometer 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tachometer 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltmeter 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Garage Door Opener 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GAWR 4-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gear Positions, Automatic Transmission 2-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gear Positions, Manual Transmission 2-19, 2-20 . . . . . . . . . .
Glove Box 2-50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities 8-5 . . . . .
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials 6-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross Axle Weight Rating 4-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 4-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Guide en Fran†ais ii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GVWR 4
-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Halogen Bulbs 6-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hazard Warning Flashers 5-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head Restraints 1-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlamps 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bulb Replacement 6-39, 6-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High/Low Beam Changer 2-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Reminder 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring 6-70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hearing Impaired, Customer Assistance 8-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heating 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High-Beam Headlamps 2-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Highway Hypnosis 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hill and Mountain Roads 4
-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hitches, Trailer 4-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hood
Checking Things Under 6
-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Release 6-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Horn 2-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydraulic Clutch Fluid 6-24, 7-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydraulic Clutch System Check 7-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydroplaning 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition Positions 2-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition Transmission Lock Check 7-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Illuminated Entry 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inflation, Tire 6-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror 2-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspections 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake System 7-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drive Axle 7-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust Systems 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Radiator and Heater Hose 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suspension 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Throttle Linkage 7-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer Case (Four-Wheel Drive) 7-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument Panel 2-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning 6-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cluster 2-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuse Block 6-71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intensity Control 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior Lamps 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

yellowblue
9-11
Traction 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treadwear 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Uniform Quality Grading 6-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wear Indicators 6-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheel Replacement 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
When It's Time for New 6-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Top Strap 1-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque Lock 2-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque, Wheel Nut 5-28, 6-77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing a Trailer 4-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing, Recreational Vehicle 4-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing Your Vehicle 5-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trailer
Brakes 4
-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving on Grades 4-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving with 4-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hitches 4-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance When Towing 4-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking on Hills 4-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety Chains 4-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tongue Weight 4-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Weight on Tires 4-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing 4-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals 4-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight 4-50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring Harness 4-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transfer Case, Electronic 2
-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer Case Lubricant 6-25, 7-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer Case, Manual 2-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmission Fluid
Automatic 6
-20, 7-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual 6-23, 7-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmitters, Keyless Entry 2-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transportation, Courtesy 8-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trip Odometer 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TTY Users 8-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal and Lane Change Signals 2-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever 2-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer 4-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underbody Maintenance 6-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underhood Fuse/Relay Center 6-73 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle
Care/Appearance Materials 6-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Control 4-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Damage Warnings iv. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identification Number 6
-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading 4-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage 6-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ventilation System 3-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visors, Sun 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltmeter 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .