GMC 1996 Sonoma Owner's Manual page 176

NOTICE:
Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your
vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by
your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow
the advice in this part, and see your GM dealer
for important information about towing a trailer
with your vehicle.
Every vehicle is ready for some trailer towing. If yours
was built with trailering options,
a s
many are, it's ready
for heavier trailers. But trailering is different than just
driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes
in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful,
safe trailering takes correct equipment. and
it
has to
be
used properly.
That's the reason for this part. In
it
are many
time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules.
Many of these are important for your safety and that of
your passengers. So please read
this
section carefully
before you pull a trailer.
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
If you do, here are some important points:
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0
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0
There are many different laws, including speed limit
restrictions. having to do with trailering. Make sure
your rig will be legal, not only where you live but
also
where YOLI'II be driving. A good source for this
information can be state or provincial police.
Consider using a sway control if your trailer will
weigh 2,000 lbs, (900 kg) or less. You should always
use
a
sway control if your trailer will weigh more
than 2.000 Ibs. (900 kg). YOLI can ask a hitch dealer
about sway controls.
Don't tow
a
trailer at a l l during the first 500 miles
(800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Y O L I ~ engine,
axle or other parts could be damaged.
Then, during the first 500 miles (800
k m )
that
YOLI
tow
ti
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.
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