Safety Chains; Driving With A Trailer; Trailer Brakes - Chevrolet 2006 Express Van Owner's Manual

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.
Since your vehicle is equipped with StabiliTrak
trailer brake system cannot tap into the vehicle's
hydraulic brake system.
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Driving with a Trailer

CAUTION:
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If you have a rear-most window open and you
pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon
monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle.
You can not see or smell CO. It can cause
unconsciousness or death. See Engine
Exhaust on page 2-27. To maximize your safety
when towing a trailer:
•
Have your exhaust system inspected for
leaks, and make necessary repairs before
starting on your trip.
•
Keep the rear-most windows closed.
•
If exhaust does come into your vehicle
through a window in the rear or another
opening, drive with your front, main
®
, your
heating or cooling system on and with the
fan on any speed. This will bring fresh,
outside air into your vehicle. Do not use
the climate control setting for maximum air
because it only recirculates the air inside
your vehicle. See Climate Control System
in the Index.