1994 Oldsmobile Silhouette Owner's Manual - Page 156

Your Driving and the Road hitches to them. Use only a frameBecause you have anti-lock brakes, do mounted hitch that does not attach to not try to tap into your vehicle's brake the bumper. system. If you do, bothbrake systems won't work well, or atall. Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that thetongue will not drop to theroad if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufactureror by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety chains. Always leave just enough slack so you can turnwith your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. 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 nowa good deal longer and not nearly so responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform, safety chains, electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, startyour vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure thebrakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at thesame time. Trailer Brakes If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg) loaded, then itneeds its own brakes - and theymust be adequate. Be sure toread and follow the instructionsfor the trailer brakes so you'll beable to install, adjust and maintain them properly. 154