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.
Your trailer’s brake system can tap into the vehicle’s
hydraulic brake system only if:
•
The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi
(20 650 kPa) of pressure.
•
The trailer’s brake system will use less than
0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle’s
master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems
won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.
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.
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 now a good deal longer and not nearly as
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check all trailer hitch, parts 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.
Passing
You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when
you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal
longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the
passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.
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Summary of Contents for Chevrolet SSR 2003
Page 5: ...These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle v...
Page 6: ...NOTES vi...
Page 60: ...NOTES 1 54...
Page 106: ...Instrument Panel Overview 3 2...
Page 186: ...NOTES 3 82...
Page 236: ...NOTES 4 50...
Page 248: ...Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the engine you ll see 5 12...
Page 328: ...NOTES 5 92...
Page 346: ...Maintenance Record cont d Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance Record 6 18...
Page 347: ...Maintenance Record cont d Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance Record 6 19...
Page 348: ...Maintenance Record cont d Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance Record 6 20...
