Subaru 2002 Forester Owner's Manual page 283

Starting and operating
D Sufficient time should be taken to learn the "feel" of the vehicle/
trailer combination before starting out on a trip. In an area free of traf-
fic, practice turning, stopping and backing up.
n Driving with a trailer
D You should allow for considerably more stopping distance when
towing a trailer. Avoid sudden braking because it may result in skid-
ding or jackknifing and loss of control.
D Avoid abrupt starts and sudden accelerations. If your vehicle has a
manual transmission, always start out in first gear and release the
clutch at moderate engine RPM.
D Avoid uneven steering, sharp turns and rapid lane changes.
D Slow down before turning. Make a longer than normal turning
radius because the trailer wheels will be closer than the vehicle
wheels to the inside of the turn. In a tight turn, the trailer could hit your
vehicle.
D Crosswinds will adversely affect the handling of your vehicle and
trailer, causing sway. Crosswinds can be due to weather conditions or
the passing of large trucks or buses. If swaying occurs, firmly grip the
steering wheel and slow down immediately but gradually.
D When passing other vehicles, considerable distance is required
because of the added weight and length caused by attaching the
trailer to your vehicle.
D When backing up with a trailer, never accelerate or steer rapidly.
When turning back, grip the bottom of the steering wheel with one
hand and turn it to the left for a left turn, and turn it to the right for a
right turn.
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