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 all trailer hitch parts 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.
Passing
You will need more passing distance up ahead when
you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal
longer, you will 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, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible,
have someone guide you.
Making Turns
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 are turning with a trailer, make wider turns than
normal. Do this so your trailer will not strike soft
shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid
jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
4-42
Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data
Records.....................................................7-10
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN).............................................5-88
Service Parts Identification Label...................5-88
Vehicle Storage..............................................5-38
Ventilation Adjustment......................................3-21
Visors...........................................................2-15
W
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators................3-22
Warnings
Hazard Warning Flashers............................... 3-4
Other Warning Devices.................................. 3-5
Safety and Symbols......................................... iii
Vehicle Damage.............................................. iv
Washer Fluid, Low Warning Light......................3-34
Washing Your Vehicle......................................5-83
Weatherstrip Lubrication...................................6-17
Weight of the Trailer........................................4-39
Weight of the Trailer Tongue.............................4-40
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use........................5-14
What to Do with Used Oil................................5-16
What to Use..........................................5-20, 5-32
Wheels
Alignment and Tire Balance..........................5-65
Replacement...............................................5-65When to Add Engine Oil..................................5-14
When to Change Engine Oil.............................5-16
When to Check..............................................5-60
When to Check Power Steering Fluid................5-32
When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter.....5-17
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking
on a Hill.....................................................4-44
Where to Put the Restraint...............................1-42
Why Safety Belts Work..................................... 1-9
Window Lockout.............................................2-15
Windows.......................................................2-14
Power........................................................2-15
Windshield Washer........................................... 3-9
Fluid..........................................................5-32
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check................6-16
Windshield Wiper
Blade Replacement......................................5-51
Fuses........................................................5-89
Windshield Wiper Lever..................................... 3-8
Winter Driving................................................4-23
Wiper Blade Check.........................................6-17
Y
Your Vehicle and the Environment....................... 6-2
14
