heating CHEVROLET ASTRO 1999 User Guide

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4-35
Your trailer brake system can tap into your vehicle's
hydraulic brake system, except:

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 braking systems won't work
well. You could even lose your brakes.

Will the trailer parts take 3,000 psi (20 650 kPa) of
pressure? If not, the trailer brake system must not be
used with your vehicle.

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
CAUTION:
If you have a rear-most window open and you
pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon monoxide
(CO) could come into your vehicle. You can't see
or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness or
death. (See ªEngine Exhaustº in the Index.) To
maximize your safety when towing a trailer:

Have your exhaust system inspected for
leaks, and make necessary repairs before
starting on your trip.

Keep the rear
-most windows closed.

If exhaust does come into your vehicle
through a window in the rear or another
opening, drive with your front, main
heating or cooling system on and with the
fan on any speed. This will bring fresh,
outside air into your vehicle. Do not use
MAX A/C because it only recirculates the
air inside your vehicle. (See ªComfort
Controlsº in the Index.)

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4-37 Making Turns
NOTICE:
Making very sharp turns while trailering could
cause the trailer to come in contact with the
vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid
making very sharp turns while trailering.
When you're turning with a trailer, make wider turns than
normal. Do this so your trailer won't strike soft shoulders,
curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or
sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have extra
wiring (included in the optional trailering package).
The arrows on your instrument panel will flash
whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly
hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other
drivers you're about to turn, change lanes or stop.When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument
panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer
are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you
are seeing your signal when they are not. It's important
to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are
still working.
Driving On Grades
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start
down a long or steep downgrade. If you don't shift
down, you might have to use your brakes so much that
they would get hot and no longer work well.
When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades,
consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a
lower temperature than at normal altitudes. If you turn
your engine off immediately after towing at high altitude
on steep uphill grades, your vehicle may show signs
similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let the
engine run while parked (preferably on level ground)
with the automatic transmission in PARK (P) for a few
minutes before turning the engine off. If you do get the
overheat warning, see ªEngine Overheatingº in
the Index.

5-
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5-1
Section 5 Problems on the Road
Here you'll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.
5
-2 Hazard Warning Flashers
5
-3 Other Warning Devices
5
-3 Jump Starting
5
-7 Towing Your Vehicle
5
-8 Engine Overheating
5
-10 Cooling System5
-18 Engine Fan Noise
5
-18 If a Tire Goes Flat
5
-19 Changing a Flat Tire
5
-32 Compact Spare Tire
5
-33 If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow

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5-8
Engine Overheating
You will find an engine coolant temperature gage on
your vehicle's instrument panel. See ªGagesº in
the Index.
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
CAUTION:
Steam from an overheated engine can burn you
badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away
from the engine if you see or hear steam coming
from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away
from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until
there is no sign of steam or coolant before you
open the hood.
If you keep driving when your engine is
overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or
others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if
it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the
engine is cool.

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6-26 What to Use
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what
kind of lubricant to use. See ªRecommended Fluids and
Lubricantsº in the Index.
Radiator Pressure Cap
NOTICE:
Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa)
pressure
-type cap and must be tightly installed to
prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage
from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap
line up with the overflow tube on the radiator
filler neck.
When you replace your radiator pressure cap, a GM cap
is recommended.

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6-27
Thermostat
Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat
in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the
flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant
reaches a preset temperature.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with
DEX
-COOL
engine coolant. This coolant is designed
to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles
(240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only
DEX
-COOL
extended life coolant.
The following explains your cooling system and how
to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem
with engine overheating, see ªEngine Overheatingº in
the Index.A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX
-COOL
coolant will:

Give freezing protection down to
-34F (-37C).

Give boiling protection up to 265F (129C).

Protect against rust and corrosion.

Help keep the proper engine temperature.

Let the warning lights and gages work as
they should.
NOTICE:
When adding coolant, it is important that you
use only DEX
-COOL (silicate-free) coolant.
If coolant other than DEX-COOL is added to
the system, premature engine, heater core or
radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the
engine coolant will require change sooner
-- at
30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months,
whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the
use of coolant other than DEX
-COOL is not
covered by your new vehicle warranty.

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6-43
Tires
Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by
a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions
about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see
your GM Warranty booklet for details.
CAUTION:
Poorly maintained and improperly used tires
are dangerous.

Overloading your tires can cause
overheating as a result of too much friction.
You could have an air
-out and a serious
accident. See ªLoading Your Vehicleº in
the Index.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)

Underinflated tires pose the same danger as
overloaded tires. The resulting accident
could cause serious injury. Check all tires
frequently to maintain the recommended
pressure. Tire pressure should be checked
when your tires are cold.

Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut,
punctured or broken by a sudden
impact
-- such as when you hit a pothole.
Keep tires at the recommended pressure.

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your
tread is badly worn, or if your tires have
been damaged, replace them.

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9-4
Electrical Equipment, Adding 2-18, 3-29, 6-60 . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical System 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine 6-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Cleaner/Filter 6-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant 6-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant Heater 2-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant Level Check 7-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cooling System Capacity 6-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cover 6-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust 2-13, 2-27, 2-28, 2-30, 4-27, 4-34, 4-35 . . . . . . .
Fuse Block 6-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identification 6-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Level Check 7-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overheating 5-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running While Parked 2-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specifications 6-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting Your 2-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temperature Gage 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Oil 6-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding 6-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additives 6-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking 6-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pressure Gage 2-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Used 6-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
When to Change 6-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust, Engine 2-13, 2-27, 2-28, 2-30, 4-27, 4-34, 4-35 . .
Express-Down Window 2-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exterior Lamps 2-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fabric Cleaning 6-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling a Portable Fuel Container 6-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling Your Tank 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filter
Air Cleaner Replacement 6
-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Oil 6-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Finish Care 6-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Finish Damage 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
First Gear 2-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Flashers, Hazard Warning 5-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Flat Tire, Changing 5-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluid Capacities 6-67, 6-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluids and Lubricants 7-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign Countries, Fuel 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
French Language Manual ii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front
Axle 6
-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage Area 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing 5-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal Lamp Bulb Replacement 6-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel 6-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling a Portable Container 6-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling Your Tank 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gage 2-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In Foreign Countries 6-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Regulator 2-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses and Circuit Breakers 6-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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9-5
Gages
Engine Coolant Temperature 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Oil Pressure 2-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel 2-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speedometer 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltmeter 2-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Garage Door Opener 2-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GAWR 4-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gear Positions, Automatic Transmission 2-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glove Box 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GM Mobility for Persons with Disabilities 8-5 . . . . . . . . . . . .
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross Axle Weight Rating 4-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 4-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Guide en Fran†ais ii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GVWR 4
-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Halogen Bulbs 6-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hatch Release 2-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hazard Warning Flashers 5-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head Restraints 1-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlamps 2-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bulb Replacement 6-37, 6-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High/Low Beam Changer 2-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Reminder 2-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hearing Impaired, Customer Assistance 8-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heating 3-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High-Beam Headlamps 2-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Highway Hypnosis 4-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hill and Mountain Roads 4-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hitches, Trailer 4
-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hood
Checking Things Under 6
-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prop 6-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Release 6-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Horn 2-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydroplaning 4-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition Positions 2-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition Transmission Lock Check 7-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inflation, Tire 6-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspections 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake System 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drive Axle 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Cooling System 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust Systems 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suspension 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Throttle System 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer Case (All-Wheel Drive) 7-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument Panel 2-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brightness Control 2-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning 6-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cluster 2-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuse Block 6-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior Lamps 2-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jack, Tire 5-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jump Starting 5-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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9-7
Manual Lumbar Support 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Methanol 6-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mirrors 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convex Outside 2-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside Day/Night Rearview 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visor Vanity 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MMT 6-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Model Reference vi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mountain Roads 4
-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net, Convenience 2-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Neutral 2-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Vehicle Break-In 2-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Night Vision 4-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts 6-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Odometer 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Odometer, Trip 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Off-Road Recovery 4-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil, Engine 6-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Opener, Garage Door 2-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside Mirror 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overhead Console 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overheating Engine 5-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Owner Checks and Services 7-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Owner Publications, Ordering 8-11, 8-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paint Spotting, Chemical 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Park 2-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shifting Into 2-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shifting Out of 2-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking
At Night 2
-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake 2-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake Mechanism Check 7-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lots 2-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Over Things That Burn 2-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
With a Trailer 4-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Passing 4-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Passlock
2-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payload 4-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Periodic Maintenance Inspections 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power
Accessory Outlet 2
-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Door Locks 2-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Option Fuses 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering 4-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering Fluid 6-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windows 2-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pregnancy, Use of Safety Belts 1-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Problems on the Road 5-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Publications, Service and Owner 8-11, 8-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .