weight CHEVROLET ASTRO 1999 User Guide

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4-32
Three important considerations have to do with weight:

the weight of the trailer,

the weight of the trailer tongue

and the weight on your vehicle's tires.
Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For
example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside
temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a
trailer are all important. And, it can also depend on any
special equipment that you have on your vehicle.
The following chart shows how much your trailer can
weigh, based upon your vehicle model and options.
VehicleAxle
Ratio Max. Trailer Wt.
Tw o
-Wheel Drive3.23
3.42
3.734,500 lbs. (1 816 kg)
5,000 lbs. (2 270 kg)
5,500 lbs. (2 497 kg)
All
-Wheel Drive3.42
3.734,500 lbs. (1 816 kg)
5,000 lbs. (2 270 kg)Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming the
driver and one passenger are in the tow vehicle and it
has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of
additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in
the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum
trailer weight.
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or
advice, or you can write us at the address listed in your
Warranty and Owner Assistance Information Booklet.
In Canada, write to:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

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4-33 Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important
weight to measure because it affects the total or gross
weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight
(GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any
cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be
riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow a trailer, you
must add the tongue load to the GVW because your
vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See ªLoading
Your Vehicleº in the Index for more information about
your vehicle's maximum load capacity.
If you're using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer
tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded
trailer weight (B). If you're using a weight
-distributing
hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of
the total loaded trailer weight (B).
After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are
proper. If they aren't, you may be able to get them right
simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires
Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper
limit for cold tires. You'll find these numbers on the
Certification label at the rear edge of the driver's door or
see ªTire Loadingº in the Index. Then be sure you don't
go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the
weight of the trailer tongue.

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4-34 Hitches
It's important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a
few reasons why you'll need the right hitch. Here are
some rules to follow:

If you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg), be sure to use a
properly mounted, weight
-distributing hitch and
sway control of the proper size. This equipment is
very important for proper vehicle loading and good
handling when you're driving.

Will you have to make any holes in the body of your
vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?
If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when
you remove the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly
carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get
into your vehicle (see ªCarbon Monoxideº in the
Index). Dirt and water can, too.
Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle and
your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the
trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road
if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about
safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer
or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's
recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not
attach them to the bumper. Always leave just enough slack
so you can turn with your rig. Never allow safety chains to
drag on the ground.
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.

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4-36
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 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.
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.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if
possible, have someone guide you.

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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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9-11
Temperature 6-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction 6-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treadwear 6-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Uniform Quality Grading 6-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wear Indicators 6-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheel Replacement 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
When It's Time for New 6-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Top Strap 1-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque Lock 2-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque, Wheel Nut 5-30, 6-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing
Recreational 4
-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trailer 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Your Vehicle 5-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trailer
Brakes 4
-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving on Grades 4-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving with 4-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hitches 4-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance When Towing 4-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking on Hills 4-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety Chains 4-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tongue Weight 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Weight on Tires 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals 4-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight 4-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring Harness 4-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transmission Fluid, Automatic 6
-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmitters, Keyless Entry 2-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transportation, Courtesy 8-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trip Odometer 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TTY Users 8-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal and Lane Change Signals 2-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever 2-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer 4-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tw o-Way Manual Seat 1-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underbody Flushing Service 7-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underbody Maintenance 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underhood Electrical Center 6-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Universal Transmitter 2-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle
Control 4-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Damage Warnings iv. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions 6
-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identification Number 6-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading 4-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage 6-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ventilation System 3-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visor Vanity Mirrors 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visors, Sun 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltmeter 2-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .