Driving With A Trailer - Chevrolet TRACKER 2002 Owner's Manual

Trailer Brakes
If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs. (450 kg)
loaded, then it needs its own brakes
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.
D
Don't tap into your vehicle's brake system if
the trailer's brake system will use more than
0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle's
master cylinder. If it does, both systems won't work
well. You could even lose your brakes.
D
Will the trailer brake parts take 3,000 psi (20 650 kPa)
of pressure? If not, the trailer brake system must not
be used with your vehicle.
D
If everything checks out this far, then make the brake
fluid tap at the port on the master cylinder that sends
fluid to the rear brakes. But don't use copper tubing
for this. If you do, it will bend and finally break off.
Use steel brake tubing.
4-54

Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
--
and they must be 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 the trailer hitch and platform
(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.