Chevrolet Blazer Owner's Manual page 187

186 Driving and Operating
Warning
When driving off-road, bouncing and
quick changes in direction can easily
throw you out of position. This could
cause you to lose control and crash. You
and your passengers should always wear
seat belts.
Before Driving Off-Road
Have all necessary maintenance and
service work completed.
Fuel the vehicle, fill fluid levels, and check
inflation pressure in all tires, including the
spare, if equipped.
Read all the information about AWD
vehicles in this manual.
Make sure all underbody shields,
if equipped, are properly attached.
Know the local laws that apply to off-road
driving.
To gain more ground clearance if needed, it
may be necessary to remove the front fascia
lower air dam. However, driving without the
air dam reduces fuel economy.
Caution
Operating the vehicle for extended
periods without the front fascia lower air
dam installed can cause improper airflow
to the engine. Reattach the front fascia
air dam after off-road driving.
Loading the Vehicle for Off-Road Driving
Warning
Unsecured cargo on the load floor can
be tossed about when driving over
rough terrain. You or your passengers
can be struck by flying objects. Secure
the cargo properly.
Keep cargo in the cargo area as far
forward and as low as possible. The
heaviest things should be on the floor,
forward of the rear axle.
Heavy loads on the roof raise the
vehicle's center of gravity, making it
more likely to roll over. You can be
seriously or fatally injured if the
vehicle rolls over. Put heavy loads
inside the cargo area, not on the roof.
For more information about loading the
vehicle, see Vehicle Load Limits 0 191.
Environmental Concerns
Always use established trails, roads, and
areas that have been set aside for public
off-road recreational driving and obey all
posted regulations.
Do not damage shrubs, flowers, trees,
or grasses or disturb wildlife.
Do not park over things that burn. See
Parking over Things That Burn 0 200.
Driving on Hills
Driving safely on hills requires good
judgment and an understanding of what the
vehicle can and cannot do.
Warning
Many hills are simply too steep for any
vehicle. Driving up hills can cause the
vehicle to stall. Driving down hills can
cause loss of control. Driving across hills
can cause a rollover. You could be injured
or killed. Do not drive on steep hills.
Before driving on a hill, assess the
steepness, traction, and obstructions. If the
terrain ahead cannot be seen, get out of the
vehicle and walk the hill before driving
further.