M.ax-irnW trailer weight is c-alculated a s s u ~ q g :the driver and one. pesseiger are in the tow vehicle- and it has till ,the required traiiering equipment; The weight of additimal optional equipment, passieiigers- and cargo in the tow vehicle, must be sub,jxac.f,ed from the maximum trailer weight Two-wh&I-drive models with a. GVWR of 4,20ci lbs. (L9O7 kg) and. four-wheel-drive models w& .&e ZR2 suspen&an package are limited to a 2,@001bs. (908 kg) .trailer rating. YOU can .ask yaur dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you.,cm write us. at the address’listed in your Warranty and Owner Assis;taace. Information Booklet.. In Canada, write t~:
Weight of the Trailer Tongiue,
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is- an important
weight to. measure because it affects:the. total or.-gross
wei.ght of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight
(GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehcle, any
cargo you may c.my in it, and the people who will be
riding in the vehick. And..if you will tow a trailer, you
must add the ton Hitches.
It’s important to have the correct hitch: -eq.uipn%ent.
Cross&nds, large tru&s :gaing-by and mughmads are a
few reasons why -you’ll need the-right hitch. Here -are.
some rules to follow:
Total We-ight. .on Your Vehicle 9 s - Tires.
4-53
41.54
Following Distance
stay at least twice as far behnd-the vehicle ahead-as YOU
would when driving your vehicle without a trai1e.r. This
Can help y.ou avoid situations that require heavy braking
a ~ d
sudden turns.
You’ll need more passing distance-up ahead when
you’re tawing a trailer. .And, .because you’re a good deal
lmgei-,. you’11. need to go much farther beyond the
passed,.vehicle, before. you. can rexurn tp your larrc.
Backing Up
Hold the. battom of the -steering w’heel with- one nand.
Then, to move the- tr.ai1e.r to the left, just m Q ~ e
to the left. To. move the trailer tof the-right, move your
hmd.t.0 she right. Always back up d-owly
possible, haveSorneone ,guide ycau.
that hmd
if
M.aking Turns
NOTICE:
Making very sharp turns while traileririg could
cause the trailer to come in contact with the
vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid
1nakin.g very sharp turns while trailering.
~~~~~
~~~~
Wkfm ‘Y6u’re turning with .a trauer, 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. S,ignal well
in advance.
4-55
you should use
If you have an.aut~~atic-transm~ssion,
DRIVE (D) when towing a trailer. Operating your
vehicle in DRIVE @) when towing a . trail& will
heat:buiidup and merid the life af y.our
M z e :
transmissioil. Qr, if you have, a-manu-ai transmission, it’s
better not to use FIFTH (S), just drive in FOURTH (4)
(or, as you need to, a lower gew).
When. you tow a tixiilkr, y-our vehicle ha.s to’have extra
wiring :and a- heavy-duty turn signal flasher. (included in
the- optional trailering package).
The arrows-on your instrument panel will flash
whenever. you signal a turn 01- 1-me. change, Properly
hooked .up, the &&la lamps will also flash, telling other
drivers you’re about to :turn, change lanes or stop.
When towing a:txailer, the. arrows. on your hstrument
panel will flash for turm even if the bulbs on the trailer
are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you
axe seeing your signal when they arenot. ICs important
to check. occasionally to.be sure- the trider bulbs are.
still working.
Driving On .Grades
Reduce speed and shiftlo dower. ge.ar. ,befure you start
dawn B long -or steep downgrade. If-you do-n’t shift
down, you might have to use your brakes w m u c h that
they would get hot and no longer work weIl.
4-56
Parking on Hills
You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer
attached, on a hll. If something goes wrong, your rig
could start to move. People can be injured, and b.oth
your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s
how to do it:
1.
Apply your regulafbrakes, but don’t shift into
PARK (P) yet, or into gear for a manual
transmission. When parking uphill, turn your wheels
away from the curb. When parking downhill, turn
your wheels into the curb.
Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.
When the wheel chocks are in place, release the
regular brakes until the chocks absorb the
load.
Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your
parking brake, and then shift into PARK (P), or
REVERSE (R) for a manual transmission.
If.you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a
manual transfer case shift lever, be sure the transfer
case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N).
Release the regular brakes.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
It can be dangerous to get out of p u r vehicle if
the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
If you have left the engine running, the vehicle
can move suddenly. You or others could be
injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even
when yoa’re on fairly level ground, use the steps
that follow.
If you have four-wheel drive with a manual
transfer case shift lever and your transfer case is
in NEUTRAL (N), your vehicle will be free to
sure the transfer ca’se is in a drive gear -- not in
roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be
NEUTRAL (N).
4-57
When You Are Re.ady .to Leave After
Parking on a Hill
1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down
while you:
Start your engine;
s.hift; int,o a.gear; and
.i Release tfie parking brake.
2. Let up dn the brake pedal.
3. .Drive slowly until the trailer- is ele-ar of-the chocks.
4. .Stop. and have someone pick up and store the chocks,
Maintenance W-hen Trailer Towing
Your vehicle will need service more. often when you're
-pullilig'.a trailer. Swthe Maintenance Schedule 'for more
on this. Things. that ar.e e.specizrlly import,at in trailer
operation -axe automatic trmsrnission.fluid (don't
overfill), engjne oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system
and brake adjustment. Each of these is covered in this
manual, and the Tndex- will help you find them. quickly.
If you're traileriqg, i-t's a go0.d i,dea to review these
sections before you start ,your trip ...
Check periodicailp t6 see-.th-at all hitch nuts and bolts
are -tight.
Trailer Wiring Harness,
'The -eight-wire harness is: stored under ysur vehicle
along the rear frame crossmember. This hamess has a
30-amp feed wire with an inline fuse located by the
.junction block. It has no.cmnecttor .and should he. wired
by a qualified electrical technician. T.he .technician can
use the fullowing c~lor:c.ode chart when connecting the
-wiring harness IO yow trailer:
b NOTES.
4-60
Section 5 Problems on the Road
Here you'll:find.what ta do about some problems .that ciin "Ciel%af bfi the road.
5- 2
5-2
5-3
5-7
5-1 2
Hazard. Warning Flaihers.
.Other Warning Devices
Jump Starting
Towing Your Vehicle
Engine Overhearing
5-22
5-22
5-23
5-35
5-36
Engine Fan Noise
Ita Tife Goes Flat
Changirig x Flat 'Tire
Compact Spare Tire (Tf Equipped)
If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud,
Ice or Snow
Hazard Warning Flashe-rs
... ..
. _. . . . , . . . . . .
,, n.....,.,.
Yom hazard warning flashers let you w a n others. They
also kt police h o w you have. a-pmblem. Your front and
rear turn signal lamp$ will flash on and off.
Press the button on -top -or
the steering column all the
wgy down to make your
front and rear turn signal
lamps. flash :on a d off.
Your hazard warnirrg flashers work no matter-what
position your key is in, and even if the key isn't in.
To turn off the flashers, pres the-button until the first
click. and release..
When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn
signals won't work. ,The flashers -will stop if you step on
the brake.
Other Warning Devices
If y b ~ &ry Pkflective triangles, .you can set one up at
the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind
your vehicle.
Jump S t-arting.
If your battery has run clown, you m.ay want to use
another vehic1.e and some jumper cables to start your
vehicle, But p1eas.e use the-folluwing steps to do
it safely.
NOTICE:
Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage
to your vehicle that wouldnlt b.e covered by
your ww-ranty.
Do not try to Start your vehicle by pushing or
pulling it. This could damage your vehicle, even if
you have. a m-mual transdssion. And if you have I
an automatic transmis;sion, it: won’t start that way.
Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous
because:
They contain.acid that can burn you.
They contain gas that can explode or ignite.
They corit&iu enough electricity to
burn you.
If you don’t follow- these -steps exactly,-’some or all
of-these things- can hurt you.
1. Check the other ve-hicle. 1.t must.have a 12-volt
battery with a neg,ative ground system.
I NOTICE:
I€ the other system isn’t a l2-volt .systein with .a
negative ground, both vehicles, can role d-amaged.: I
NOTICE:
If you leave your radio on, it could be badly
damaged. The repair wouldn't b-e covered by
your warranty.
I€ your vehicle has air conditioning, the auxiliary
electric fan under the. hood can start up even
when- the engine- is not running and can injure
you. Keep hands, clathhg and tools away'from
any underhood electric fan.
5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or
missing insulation. If they do, you could. get a shock.
The-vehicles could be damaged too.
Before you connect the cables, here are some- basic
things you should know. Positive (+> will ga
to positive (+) and negative (-) will go to a
metal engine part. Don’t connect positive (+) to
negative (-) or you’ll get a short that would damage
the battery and maybe other parts too.
6. Connect the red
positive (+) cable to the
positive (+) terminal of
the vehicle with the
dead btittery.
4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find
the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on
each battery.
cause battery
Using a match near .a battery can
gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this,
and some have been blinded. Use a flashiight if
you need more light.
Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t
need to add water to the Delco Freedom@ battery
installed in every new GM vehicle. But if a
battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount
of fluid is there. .If it is‘low, add water to take care
of that fist, If you don’t, explosive gas could
be present.
Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you.
Don’t get it on you. If you accidentally get it in
your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with
water and get medical help immediately.
7. Don’t let the .other.end
touch metal. Connect it-
to the positive (+)
terminal of the good
battery.
8. Now connect the
black negative (-1 cable
to the good battery’s
negative (-> terminal.
Don’t let the other end
touch anything until the
next step. The other end
of the negative cable
doesn’t go to the dead
battery. It goes to.a heavy
unpaiked ketal part on
the engine .of the vehicle
with the dead battery.
9. Attach the cable at least
18 inches (45 cm) away
from the dead battery,
but not near engine parts
that move.
The electrical
connection is just as
good there, but the
chance of sparks getting
-back to the battery is
much less.
10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run
the engine for a while.
11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it
won’t start after a few tries, make sure all
connections are good. If it still won’t start, it
probably needs service.
Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you
badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts
once the engines .are running.
5-6
1.2. Remove me cables in reversemder .to prevent
electrical shGrting. Take c.ae that they don’? touch
each .other, or any other metal.
A. Heavy Metal Engine Part
B. Good Battery
C. Dead Battery
A vehicle can fall from a car carrier .i it isn't
adequately secured. This can cause a .:collision9
serious personal injury and vehicle damage. The
vehicle shouid.be tightly secured with chains or
steel cables before it is transported.
Dan% use substitutes (ropes, leather-straps,
canvas webbing, etc.) that can be cut by sharp
edges. underneath thedowed vehicle. Always use
T-hooks inserted in the T=hook slots, Never use
J-hooks. They will damage .drivetrain *and
suspension components.
TO hdp avoid injury to you or! otfiws:
* Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is
@ Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds.
0 Never taw "wish d.amage.d piarts not
being towed.
fully secured,
0 Never.@ under your vehicle after it has
been. I[i€ted by the tow truck.
Always we s,eparate safety chains..on each
.side -when towing a vehicle.
0 Newr use J-hooks. Use T-hooks instead.
When your vehicle is being towed,. h-ave the ignition key
. md.& ;the OFF- position.. The ite,erin,g wliegl sli~ultl
be. cla-mped in- a straightdahezd position witb a clamping
&vice desi:ped for towing-service. DO fiat ust the
vehicle's steering c.olumxz I-ock for this. The transmission
should be in NEUTRAL (N) an-d the .transfer case, if you
'31ave one, ShQuLd. be in 2HI. The p&ing.bm.ke shguld-.-lje
seleased.
If your vehicle has. a flqor mounted shifter and no
.electrical power, the electrical.So1enoi.d lock must be
.ovexKidd.m tu shi%t-.hm PARK (P> :to NEUTRAL (Nj.
Follow -:these. step.8:
1. Push the'bme of the.'€e.ather shift leva boat forward
with your thumb.
3.
4.
5'.
'Move the solenoid. lever toward the driver's side to.
m1oc.k it;
'While holding the solenoid lever in the unlock
gosition, press the shift lever button and shift into
NEUTRAL (N).
Release the solenoid lever and snap the b.QgL.b.a&
into place.
,... . .
Don't have your vehi-cle towed on th-e drive wheels
unless you must. If -the Vehicle .must be towed--on. the
drive wheels, be sure to follow the. sp.e.ad and distance
restrictions Mer in this section oryour transmission will
be damaged.. If these limitations must be exceeded, the0
the drive wheels have to b:e supported on .a dolly.
Front Towing;
Tow.Limits. -- 35 rnph (56 k m h ) , 50 miles (-8O-km)
lrehicles with fuur-whesl-drive with the electronic
-transfercase o p t h must use a towing dolly under the
mar whe& when towing from the fipnt.
NOTICE:
Do not tow with sling-type equipment or
fascia/fog lamp damage will occur. Use wheel-lift
or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping
may be. fequiped for car-earrier equipment. U k
safety chains and wheel straps.
Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could
damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from
vehicle to ground or vehicle to wheel-lift
equipment. To help avoid damage, instan a
towing doIly and raise the vehicle until adequate
clearance is obtained between the-ground and/or
wheel-lift equipment.
Do not attach winch cables or J-haoks to
suspension components. when using;car-carrier
eq-uipment. Always use T-hooks inserted in
the T-hook-slots.
Rear Towing
Tow Limits -- .35 mph (56 kwdh), 50 miles (SO kmj
Vehicles with four-whe&dvive with EkctroHic transfer
case option must use a towing, dolly under th.efron;t
~vheels when towing- frmn the reaz
NOTICE:
Do not tow with sling-type equipment or rear
bumper valance damage will occur. Use wheel-lift ,
or car-carrier equipment. Additional rainping
may be required for car carrier equipment. Use
safety chains and wheel straps.
Towing a vehicle over rough Surfaces could
damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from
vehicle to .ground or vehicle to wheel-lift
eq-uipment. Ta help avoid darnage, install a
towing dally and raise the vehicle until adequate
clearance is obtained between the ground and/or
wheel-lift equipment.
Do not ,attach winch cables or J-hooks ta
suspension components when using car-carrier
equipment. Always use- T-hooks inserted in
the T-hook slots.
5-11
Engine Overheating
YQU will find a coolant temperature gage on your
vehicle’s instrument paneI.
ESteam Is Coming FroniYour Engine
5-12
Steam from an overheatdengine can burn y.ou
badly, even if you just open the ho.od. Stay away
from the engine if you see or hear steam toming
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 getmt of the vehicle until. the
engine is cool.
NOTICE:
If your -engine catches fire. because you keep
driving with no co.olant, your vehicle can b.e
badly damaged. The costly repairs would..not. be
c~overed by your warranty.
IfNo Steam Is Coming - . From Your Engine
If y0.u get the overheat warning but s.ce or hear RO
steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes
the engine can get a 1i.ttle too hot when yau:
.O Climb a long hill OLI: a hot day.
0 S.top after high-speed driving.
0 Idle for long periods in traffic.
e- Tow a trailer. See “Dfiving on Grades” in .the Index.
If you get .the overheat warning with no sign of s-team;
try this for a minute or so:-
1. If you have an air conditioner, turn it off.
2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest.$gm
speed and open the window as necessary.
3. 1% you’re in a. traffic jam, shift to NEUTRAL (N);
otherwise, shift to the highest gear while
driving -- AUTOMATlC OVERDRIVE (@) or
DRIVE (D) far automatic transmissions.
If you n.0 longer have the overheat warniiqg,. you
can drive. Just to besafe, driv.e slower for .about
10 minu.tes. If the warning does;n’.t come back. ofl,
you can drive normdly..
If the warning c.aritinues-, pull OV&, stop, and p - ~ k y.Our-
vehicle right hway.
If there’s still no sign of steam, push the accelerator Uhtil
the engine speed is about twice as fast-as normal idie
speed. Bring the. engine speed back to- normal idle sped
after two QP three minutes. Now:s.ye if the warning, stops.
But &en-, if you still have the .warnhg-, twn qfl--fhc
engine and get Gveryona .out af rhe whicle until it
coois Eo wn.
When you decide it’s m€e to lift the, hood, here’s what
you’ll see:
P- CAUTION:
If your vehicle. has air conditioning, the auxiliary
electric fan under the hood can start up .even
when the. engine is not running. and can injure
you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from
any underhood .electric fan.
If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling,
don’t do anything else u,ntil it cools down.
A, Ccrolant R-ecovery Tank
B. .Radiator Prmsure Cap
C . Engine .Fan
5-14
1
heater and radiator noses, and other engine
parts, can be. very hat. Don’t touch them. If you
do,, you can be burned.
Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you run
the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could
cause ,an engine fire, and you could be burned.
Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.
I NOTICE:
-.
Engine damage from running your ,engine
without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty.
fine again, :See
If there seems to be no leak, start the
if the fan speed increases when idle sped is -doubled by
pushing the -accelerator pedal down. If it doesn’t, your
vehicle needs service. Turn off-the engine.
The coolant level should be at the ADD mark.
If it isn’t, you may have, a-le-& in the mdiator hoses,
heater hoses, radiator, water pump 01
the cdoling. system.
?mewbere else in
NOTICE:
In cold weather, water can freeze and crack.the
engine, radiator, heater core and ather parts.
Use the recommended coolant and the proper
coolant mix.
How to, Add Csolsrnt to the Coolant
Recovery Tank
If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolmt level
isn’t at ADD, add a :SO/SO mixture. of clean wnrer
(prefer&bly .distilled) :and DEX-CC)OL@ (siljcate-frm)
antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine
Coolant” in the Index for more information.)
r- Adding only plain water to your cooling system
can be da-ngerous. Plain water, or some other
liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper
coolant mix win. Your vehicle’s coolant warning.
system -is set.for the.pr0pe.r coolant mix. With
plain water or the wrong-mix, your engine conld
,get too hQt but y.ou wouldn’t get the overheat
warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or
others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of clean
water ana DEX=COOL@ coolant.
r You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol
and it will burn if the engine parts are hot
enough. Don’t spill coolant on -a hot engine.
When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at
ADD, start your vehicle.
If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more
thing you can try. You can add the. proper coolant .mix
directly to the radi,ator, but be sure the cooling system is
cool before you do it.
Steam and scalding Bquids from a hot cooling
system can blow out and burn you badly. They
are .under pressure, and if you turn the radiator
pressure cap -- even a little -- they can come out
at highspeed. Never turn the.cap when the
cooling system, including: the radiator pressure
cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling systemrand
radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to
turn. the pressure cap.
5-18
Wow .to Add Coolant to the Radiator
2. Then keep turning the pressur'e cap, but. now push
down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.
1. You can remove the pressure cap when the cooling
system, inchding the pressure cap and upper radiator
hose, is no longer hot. Turn the-pressure cap slowly
counterclockwise until'it first stops. (Don't press
down while turning the pressure cap.)
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means
there is still some pressure left.
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-cOOL@
co.olant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck.
4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the ADD mark.
5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but
leave the pressure cap off.
5-20
6. Start the engine and let itrun until you can feel the
upper radi:ator hose. getting hot. Watch out for the
engine fan.
7 . By this time, the coolant level inside the filler neck
may be lower. If .the level is lower, tidd more of the
proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture through
the filler neck until the level reach.es xh-e base af the
filler neck.
8. Then replace the pressure cap, A,t any time during
this procedure if coolant begins to flow aut of the
filler ne.ck, reinstall the press-ure cap. B.e-sure the
arro.ws on t.he pressure cap line up like this.
It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out’? while you’re driving,
especially if you- maintain your tires properly. If-air goes
out of.a..tire, it3 much more likely to le:& out sbwly.
But if you should. ever have a “blowoilt,” hme are a few
tips about what to expec~ -and what to do:
You.mhy alstt- hear this €annoise wheli ycju s.tart the
:lutch disengages.
engine. It will .go away as the fa
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage
by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard
warning flashers.
Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle
can slip off the jack and roll over you or other
people. You and they could be badly injured.
Find a level place to change your tire. To help
prevent the vehicle from moving:
I. Set the parking brake firmly.
2. Put an automatic transmission shift
lever in PARK (PI or shift a manual
transmission to FIRST (1) or
REVERSE (R).
CAUTION: (Continued)
3. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle
with a manual transfer case shift lever,
be sure the transfer case is in a drive
gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N).
4. Turn off the engine.
5. Put the wheel blocks at the front and
rear of the tire farthest away from the
one being changed. That would be the
tire on the other side of the vehicle, at
the opposite end.
Removing the Spare.’Tire and Tools
The jacking equipment you’I1 need. is .stored inside the
plastic jack covef.which is behind the-fr-ont seats, -either
on the center of the wall (extmded cab) ‘or ‘on the
p-assenger’s side .of the wxll (regular cab).
The following steps will tell youhow to use the jack and
change a tire.
This is the jack cover for the extended cab. The cover
.for the re,gular cab is similar. To remove it, turn the
phstic wing nu% counterclmkwis.e. Rem-ove the.
J ac R cover.
Turn .the wi~%g imt. cwnterclockwise :and rem-ove the
wheel blocks., jack and wheel wrench.
Your spare tire is stored underneath the rear of your
vehicle; See “Compact S-pare Tire” later in this section
for more mformation- about the compact spare.
NOTICQ
Never remove or restow a tire frodto a stowage.
psition under the vehicle while the .vehicle is
suppiorted by .a jack+ Always tighten th.e tire
fully against the: underside- of the vehicle
when restowiqg.
. _.. - .
$ - E
Turn the wheel wrench c0unterclo'ckwiA-e t$ lower the
.spare tire. Keep turning the wheel wrench irntil the spare
tire can be pulled out from under .the vehicle.
When the tire has been completely lowered, tilt the
retainer at the end of the cable.,and pill it through the-
wheel Gpening:. Puli the tire out from underthe vehicle.
To help avoid v.ehicle .damage, do not drive th-e
vehicle before $he- cable is restored.
Pwf.the spare .tire nearae- flat tire.
The tools you'll be, wing include. the jack (A) and wheel
wrench (€3). Your vehicle may also liava an optional hub,
cap I:emov.d to-ol.
5-26
The optional hub cap
removal tool is stowed with
the jack.
Position the hub cap
removal tool i-n the notch
and pull straight ,away from
the wheel tQ avoid,p.otential
damag,e TO the hubcap and
wheel surface.
Remove. the hub cap. I€ you h v e an aluminum or plastic
molded hGb :cap:, pry it off with the chisel .end of your
wheel
wrench.
Some of the molded plastic hub caps. hme imitation
wheel nuts -molded into them. The wheel wrench won’t the.
fit these imitation nuts, SQ don’t try to remove them with
the socket end of the’ wheel. wrench.
If you have individual wheel nut caps that cover
nut, they must be- removed in order to get to the wheel
nuts. Use the socket end of the wheel wrench to-rerno.ve
each
wheel nLlt
Your wheel nut. caps may attach your hub cap to the
wheel, Remove these whe.el nut caps before you rake off
the hub cap,
3. Fit the jack into the appropriate ho1.e nearest the
flat tire.
1. Using the wheel wrench, lomen all the wheel nuts.
Don't remove them yet.
2. Turn the jack handle clockwise slightly to raise the
jack lift head.
A. Front Frame Hole.
B. Rear Frame Hole (ZR2)
C. Spring Hanger Hole (Standard Pickups)
5-28
Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is
dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you
could be badly injured or killed. Never get under
a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.
I 1 NOTICE:
Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly
positioned can damage the vehicle and even make
the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury
and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack
18t head into the proper location before raising
your vehicle.
4. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle
clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the
ground so there is enough room for the spare tire
to fit.
5. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat-tire;
b. Remove any rust or dirt
from the wheel bolts,
mounting surfaces and
spare wheel.
Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts.. If you
do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could
fall off, causing a serious accident.
7 . Place the spare on the wheel mounting- surface.
8. Put the nuts on by
hand. Make sure. the
c.one-shapd end is
toward the wheel.
Tighten each nut by
hand untiI the- wheeI is
held against the hub.
If a nut can’t bel turned
by hand,. us.e the
wheel wrench. and see
your deal.er as soon
as possible.
Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to
which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts
become loose after a t h e . Th-e wheel could come
off.and cause an accident. When you change a
wheel,-remove-.any rust or dirt from the places
where the wheel attach.es to the vehicle. In an
emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel
todo this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire
brush rater, if .you need to, to get all the rust or
dirt off.
5-30
9. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle
counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.
10. Use the wrench.to
tighten the wheel nuts
firmly in a crisscross
sequence as shown.
5-31
I
Incorrect wheel nuts or imprdperly tightened
wheel nuts can cause th,e-wheel to become loose
and-even comeaff. This. could lead to 'an accident.
F k swe'to use the corre-ct whee1 nuts. If p u have
to .iiep-lsrC.e them, be sure. to get 'new GM origin.al
equipment wheel nuts.
Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the
nuts tightened with a torque wpsnch to 95 lb-ft
(I30 Nmj.
Storing .a F1i ' or Spare .Tire and To&
A CAUTION:
Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment In the
passenger .compartment of the vehicle could
.r.,sudden stop -or collision, loose
cause injury. In
equipment, could strike smneome. Stote all these
in the proper place.
I NOTICE:
tiightened wheel nuts: can lead to
Improperly
brake - pulsatian-and r.otor damage. To avoid
expe-nsive brake repairs; evenly tighten the wheel
nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper
tGrque s p e ~ ~ c i t i g n .
Don't use the existing hoist to store a tire with an
,aluminum wheel or it could &amage the wheel.
Secure. the tire in the p i c h p bed.
Follow this diagram to store the underbody
-mounted spare.
. A . . Wheel W m c h
B. Hoi;$ Assembly
C, Retainer
D. Spring
E. Tice
E Valve stem (PoiritedD.own)
G. Lower
€3. R.aise
C..
D..
E.
G.
H,
1.
J.
Repl.ace the. j-ack cover, -if -you have one.
A. Wheel Wxensh
3. Bracket:
Compact Spare Tire (If Equippe.d)
Although the compact spare-tire was fully inflated when
your vehicle w.as new, it can lose air after a time. Check
the. inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi
(420 kPa).
After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you
should stop as 'soon as possible and 'm.ake-. sure your
spare tire is cor-rec.tly inflated. The compact spare is
made to perform well at speeds up to 65 :mph
(I 05 krn/h) for distances up to 3,000 miles (5.000 km),
so you can finish your trip and have your full-size tire
repaired or replaceid where.you want. Of course, it's best
to replace y0.w spare with a full-size tire as soon as you
can. Your spare will last longer and be: in .good shape in
case you-need it again.
I NOTICE:
When the compact 'spare: is installed, don't ta.ke
your vehicle through an automatic car wash with
guide rails, The compact spare can get caught on
the rails; That can damage the tire and wheel,
-and maybe other-parts of your vehicle.
A, Hub Cap Removal Tool (Some Mmiels)
E. Cover (Extended Cab)
%. Cover (Stand,ard Cab)
D. Hub Cap Removal Tool (Some Models)
E. B d t
Dan’t use your. campacl. spare .on othex vehicle-s,
And don’t mix .yoat cumpact c spa^. tirem-wheel with
:olher-whe;els-ar t k ~ . They won’t fit. Keep yirur. spare
tire and its w h d together.
NOTICE.:
Tire chains: won’t - fit your xornpact .spare. Using
.and can damage:
th.em can damage.yaur ve~hicle
the chains too-. Don’t use :tire chains an your
CaPnpact.-spaPe.
If You’re .Stuck.: In
Ice or Snow
What: you d.on”t want to .do when yo.t~e vehcle is sty& i . ~
t.0 spin your wheels too fast. Tlie melhod known as
‘:rocking” can heIp you. g-et out whm you’re: stack, but
you must use: caution.
explode.,. and you or oth-ers could be.injure& And,
the tran3mission or other pqrts of the. .vehicle. cm.
,overheatc That :could cause an engine
compartment fire :or other damage. When yo.u’re.
.stuck, .spin the wheels as little-as passsble. Dan%
spin the- wheels above 35 mph (55 kmh) as shown
‘on the speedometer.
NOTICE:
Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your
vehicle as we11 as the tires. If you spin the wheels
too fast while shifting your transmission back
and forth, you can destroy your- transmission.
For information about using tire chains on your vehicle,
see “Tire Chains” in the Index.
Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out
First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will
;clear the area around your front wheels. Then shift back
,;and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear (or
*with a manual transmission, between FIRST (1) or
SECOND (2) and REVERSE(R)), spinning the wheels
as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while
you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal
when the transmission is in g,ear. If that doesn’t get you
out after a few tries,. you may need to be towed out. Or,
you c.an use.your recovery hooks if your vehicle. has
::them. IT you do need to be tawed out, see “Towing Your
”Vehicle” in the Index,.
U-sing the Recovery Hooks
Tour vihilfe may be equipped with recovery hooks. The
recovery hooks are pmvided at the front of yo-ur vehicle.
You may need to use them if you’re stuck off-road
and need to be pulled to some place where you can
wntinue driving.
5-37
____
The 'recovery hooks, when used, are under a lot of
.force. Always p-ull the vehicle.straight out. Never
pull on the hooks at a sideways angle. The'hooks
could break off and you or others could be
injured from the chain or cable snapping. back.
NOTICE:
Never use the recovery hooks to tow the vehicle.
Your vehicle could be damaged and it would not
be covered by warranty.
5-38
NOTES
.&
k% NOTES
5-40
Section 6 Service and. Appearance Care
Here:you will find inf6frriatisn about 'the care of your vehicle. This section begins with Service and fuel information,,
and then it.shows how to check important fluid and lubriean~.Ievz=ls.. There
vehicle, and a pmt devoteft to itsappearance c.are.
is a1s.o technical informatkm &;gut your
Fuel
Fuels in Foreign Countrks
Filling Your Tank
Checking Things Ugdgr lhs Hood
Engine Oil
Air Cleaner
Autam-atic Trans-missi-on Fluid.
Manual Transmission Fluid..
Hy.draulk Clutch
Rear Axle
Four-wheel Drive
Engine' Coolant
Radiator Pressare- Cap
'Thermg-sgat
P6we.r. Steering Fluid
6-29
6-3.1
6- 3-5.
6 -3 5
-6-42
6-44
-6-53
6-53
6-57
6-6.1
6-62
'6-63
6-67
6-68
&'70
Windshield. Washer Fluid
Brakes
Battery
Bulb Replacement
Windshield; Wiper Blade Rephement
Tires
Appearance Care
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
Appearance Care Materids C h a t
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Electrical Sptem
Replacement Bulbs
Capacities -and Specificztions
Air Conditioning Refrigerants
6" 1
Service
Your GM dealer knows your vehicle best &nd wants you
to be happy with k We hope you’ll gn t.0 your dealer for
.dl,your Service needs. Yo,u’ll :get genuine GM parts and
GM-tf&ed and supported s-ervick people.
We hope you”11 want to keep your GM vehicle all GM.
Genuine GM-parts have one of these marks:
Delco
Doing Your Own Service Work-
If you want twdo some of your Q W ! ~ service work, ~0~1’11
wmt to get the proper GM Service Manual. It tells-you
much mare about how to s-erv-ice your vehicle than thi,s
manualscan. To order the proper service manual, see
“Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.
Your vehicle has an air bag system. Behe. attempting to
do your own service work, see “Servicing- You Air
Bag-Equipp-ed Vehicle” in the Index.
You should keep a record with all parts receipts -and list
the rnile-age and-the date of any service work you
perform. See-“Mainte,nance. Record” in the.Index,
You can be injured and your vehicle could be
damaged ifyou try to do service work on a
vehicle without knowing enough about it.
@ Be sure you have sufficient knowledge,
experience, the proper replacement parts
and tools before you attempt any vehicle
maintetenance:’task.
Be .sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and
other fasteners. “English” and ‘‘m.etric’’
fasteners can be easily confused. If you ‘use
the wrong fasteners, parts can later break
or fall off, You could be hurt.
i in Foreign ,Countries
' . .~ %
If-you pian on driving-in another country outside the
United., States or Canada, .the proper fuel may be hard to
find. Neveruse leaded gasoline or any other fuel not
recommended in the previous. text on fuel. Costly repairs.
caused by use of improper file1 w-oddn't be c.overed:'by
your warranty.
TQ check un fuel availability, ask an auto club, or
contact a major oil company that does bt
country.where you'I1 be driving.
You can also write us &the following addressfor
advice. Just tell us where. you're going and give your
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
s in the
General Molars International Product Center
190.8 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario LlH SP7
I NOTICE:.
Your vehixle was xiat desigaed. for fk%I that
contains me-thand. 'Don't use it. It can Corrode
metal parts in your- fuel-system and also, damage
phstie and rubb-er parts. -That damage wouldn't
be covered under your warranty.
behind .a hiLged door
on the driver’s side of
your vehicle.
While refueling, hang
the cap by the tether
from the hook’on the
filler door.
To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left
(counterclockwise). The cap has a spring in it; if you let
go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.
soline ne vapor is highly flammable. It bums
4-
violently, and that can cause very bad injuries.
Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling
your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking
materials away from gasoline.
NOTICE:
for you. If you $-et
If y0.u need .a new cap, be sure to get the right
type. Your dealer ean get. one
the wrong type, itmay not fit properly. This-may
cause your rnalfunctiori indicator lamp to li.ght
and your fuel tank and emissions. system may be
damaged. S;ee “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in
the Index.
Checking Things Under the Ho
To open the hood, first pull
the handle- inside the vehicle
on the lower left side of the
instrument panel.
som-ething ignites it; y0.u could. be badly burned.
Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the
fuel fiIler cap too quickly. This spray can happen
if your tank i s nearly full, and is more likely in
hot weather. Open the fuel fiier cap slowly and
wait for;ang ‘ShW’ noise to stop. Then unscte-w
the cap all the way.
lam Vehicle” in- the Index.
Be- careful .not to spill gasolina. C1e.m gasoline from
painted surfaces-as- S O O ~ as possible. Se-e “Clean-ing the
Out; e o
When y0.u put the cap back on, twn it to the right
(clockwise) until you hear a cli.cking sound. Make sure
you -fully install the cap. The-dia.gn Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the
secondary hood- release.
Things that burn can-get on hot engine parts and
start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline,
oil, coolant, brake fluid,. windshield washer and
other fluids,-.and plastic or rubber. Yau or others
could be burned. Be carefuL not to drop or spill
things that will burn onto a hot engine.
Lift the hood, release the hood prop from its retainer .and
put.the hood prop into the slot in the hood. You may
have a lamp that comes on when you lift the hood.
6-7
When you.lift the hood, you’ll see these items on the 2.2L engine:
A. Coolant Recovery Tank
B. Engine 011 Fill Cap and Dipstick
C. Brake Master Cylinder
D. Hydraulic Clutch Reservoi.r
6-8
E. Battery
E Power Steering Reservoir
G. Air Cleaner
H. WindshieId Washer Fluid
When you lift the hood, you’ll see these items on the “VORTEC” 4300 engine:
A. Battery
E. Coolant Recovery Tank
C. Engine Oil Dipstick
D. Transmission Dipstick
E. Engine Oil Fill
F. Power Steering Reservoir
G. Brake Master Cylinder
H. Air Cleaner
I. Windshield Washer Fluid
Before cJosing the hood, he .sure- all the filler caps are on
properly. Thin lift the hood to. relieve pressure !on the
hood prop.
Remove: the hood prop: from the slot in the hood and
return the prop to Zts reta.iner.
Then pull the hood down firmly to close. It wdl Iatch
when dropped from 10 to 1.<2 inches (25 to- SO cm)
without.pressing on th.e b o d -
It’s a good idea to Cheek your- engine ‘oil-every time :you
get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the. o.iI must
.be warm and th.e vehicle ‘mu.st be an level ground.
The oil dipstick ,on the
“VORTEC”4300eng~,eis
a yellow ring.
6-10
The oil dipstick on the
2.2L engine is under
the fill cap.
Checking Engine Oil
Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel 01-
cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again,
keeping the tip down, and check the level.
Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to
drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick
might not show the actual level.
When to Add- Oil
If the oil is at or below the ADD line, then .you’ll need to
add at least one quart of oil. But- you m u t use the. right
kind. This part explaimwhat k i r d o f ’ d to use. Fur
crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications”
in the Index.
What Kind of Oil to Use
Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by
looking. for the “S.tarburst” symbol. This symbol
indicates that the oil has been certified by the ArneriGm
Petroleum Institute- (API). Do no1 use any oil which
doesmot carry this Starburst symbol.
NOTICE:
Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has. so.
much dl that the oil-level gets above the
cr8s.s-hatched area that shows the- proper
operatiqg-rapgq, your engine cduld be damaged.
Be sure to fill it enough to~put the level somewhere in
the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way
back in when you’re though.
1 1
‘4
If you change your own oil,
be sure you use oil that has
the Starbursl s-yrnbol . o n the
front of the oil container: If
you have your oil changed
for yo.u, be s.ure the oil put
into your .engine is
American Petr.oleum
Institute certified for
.gasoline engines.
You should also .use the proper viscosity oil for your
vehicle., as shown in the fgliDwing chart:
RECOMMENDED SA€ VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS
FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST
SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTEO TEMPERATURE RANGE.
LOOK
FOR THIS
SYMBOL
HOT
WEATHER
“F
“(
- + 3
- + 2
‘7
+1
- $ 4
- - 7
+ 60
+ 40
+ 20
- - 1
8 -
I-
I- SI
SAE 5W-30
PREFERRED
COLD
WEATHER
DO NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER
GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED
As shown in the chat, SAE 5W-30 is b.est for your
vehicle. However, you can use SAE low-30 if it’s going
to be 0°F (- 18 “C) or above. These- numbers on an oil
container show i t s viscosity, or thickness. Do not’use
other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50.
I NOTICE:
Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum
Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines
“Starburst” symbol. Failure to use the
recommended oil can result in engine damage
not covered by your warranty.
GM Goodwrench’ oil meets all the requirements for
your vehicle.
If you are in an area where,the temperature falls below
-20°F (-29°C)’ considerusing either an SAE 5W-30
synthetic oil or an SAE OW-30 oil. Both will provide
easier cold starting and better protection for your engine
at extremely low temperatures.
6-13
Driving undef these conditions causes eagineail to
break down sooner. If' a.ny one of these is true for your
vehicle, -then you need to .change, your oil and filter
every 3,060..mil~s (3' 000 km] or 3 .months - whichever
0cc:U.rs first.
If none of them i s true, use the lopg triplhighway
maintenance schedule. Change. the bil-and filter every
'7.,500 miles (1.2.5.00 km) or 1.2 months -- whicheve-r
u.cc.urs first. Driving a vehicle with 3 fully warmqd
engine under highway coridifians causeis engine oil- to
break dawn dower.
Rem-ote Oil Filter (Four=Whe:el Drive)
The access ,dcmx f m the ;re:mote:oil filter is in-the steering
linkage shiqld as-sbrnbly h a t e d under the. r.adiator
support. Twist the screw to unlock or lack the dom.
Make sure 8 you open the door, it is securely closed.
when you are finished.
-0
Most trip3 .are less. than 5 to 10 miles (8 to Xi km).
This is particularly impgrtant when outsid.:
tempemratures me below Freezing;
Most trips include.-extensive idling (such .as fiequenr
driving .in stopand-go traffic).
YQU operate- yo.^ vehicle in dusty areas or
a€f-roid fraquen-tly.
You frkquently tow a'traila.
The vehicle is .used for delivtyy ,service, police, taxi
or other cornexcia1 application.
Did you know that used engine oil contains certain
,;elements that may .be.unhealthy for your skin and could
even cause cancer? .Don’t let used ail stay an,yo.ur skln
-for very hng. Clean your- s h n and nai1.s with ‘soap and
water,.or a good hand cleaner. Wash 01 properly throw
away clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (See
the manufacturer’s warning-s tibout the use and disposal
of- oil products.)
Used oil can be a real threat. to the environment. If you
change ydur owri oil, be sure to drain all- fre,e-flowing oil
from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of oil
by p.ut.ting it. in the trash, pouring it on the .ground, into,
sewers., 01 into streams .or b0die.s of water. Instead,
,recycle it by taking it. to a place that collects used oil. If
you have a problem propedy disposing .of your used oil,
ask your dealer; a service station or a local recycling
cen& for help.
Air Cleaner
VORTEC” 4300 Engine
To remove t.his air cleaner, remove the wing nut$ that
hold the cover on, Remove the cover and lift out the
air filter.
Insert a new air filter, then replace the air cleaner-cover.
Tighten the wing nuts to hold the cover in place.
To remove this air cleaner,
.open both &mps and
push the rear of:the air
cleaner toward the rear of
the engine compartment.
2.2L Engine
Insert a ne’w air filter. Then replace the air cleaner
assembly, making certain the PCV air tube is properly
-seate.d in the left-hand valve- cover and the clamps are
securely fastened.
Refer to- the M.aintenan.ce .Schedule to ‘determirre when to
replace the ais- filter..
See “Scheduled Ma.intenance-Sel.vic.es” in the Index.
6-16
t CA . -
.-
Operating the engine with the air cleaner off
can cause you or others to be burned. The air
cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops. flame if
-the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the
engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t
drive with it off, and be careful working on the
engine with the air cleaner off.
I NOTICE:
If the air cleaner is off, :a backfire can cause, a
.dam-aging engine fire, And, dirt can easily get
into your engine, which will damage it. Always
have the air cleaner in place when you’re driving,
When to Check and Change
.A goad time to check-your a0tomati.c transmission fluid
level is when the en.gine .oil is chanzed,
C.hange both the fluid an.d filter every 50,000-miles
(8'3 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or
more of these conditions:
In heavy city traf€ic where the-outsi.de. temperature
regularly reaches. 906F (.32'C) or higher.
In hilly or mountainom terrain.
0 When doing frequent trailer towing.
0 Uses. such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
If you do not use your vehicle under any of the-se
cqnditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing.
See "Scheduled Maintenance Services" in the Index,
How to Check
B.eCanse this operation can be a little difficult, you
may cho.Oge to have this dme at your GM de-alership
Service Department
If you do it ywrsiAf, be sure to follow all the instruaims
here, uryclu coukd get a false re.adirig on the dipstick.
NOTICE:
Too much or too little fluid can damage- your
transmission, TQO much can mean that s.ome of
the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine
parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be
sure to getan accurate reading if .you .check .your
transmission fluid.
Wait &t least.30 minutes before checking the
transmissioil fluid level if.you have been driving:
* When ou&ide te:mperatures a r ~ above 9C>-'F (32 O C).
0 At high spe>ed fbr.quite-.a while.
0 Tn'heavy traffic -- especidly i n hot weather.
While pulling a. trailer:
To -get the right reading, the flui,d'should be at dermal
operating temperature, which- is 1:80."F to 208°F
(82QG to 33°C).
Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about IS miles
(24 km) when outside trnperaturas aie above .50°F
(1,O"C). Z:it's~c 10 .minLites. Then
Checking the Fluid Hot or Cold
0' Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the
eng,ine rufinihg.;
@ With the: pai.king brake aplied,, pl,ace the shift h e r
in PARK (P). '
0 With yoL!'r foot on the br'zkelpedal, move the shift
lever through each gear range, pausing for abaut
three se.c-onds in each: range.. Then, PO-sition the..shift
lever in PARK (P).
6-18
Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:
1. Flip the handle up and then pull out the dipstick and
wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.
2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and
then pull it back out again,
3.
4.
Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower
level. The fluid level must.be in the COLD area €or a
cold check or in the ROT area or.cross-hatched area
for a hot check.
If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the
dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle
down to .lock thedipstick. in place.
HOW to Add Fluid
Referto- the. M-aintenance Schedule t~ dtztermirie. what
kind of- tram~ssion fluid to. me. See “Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants:” in. the Index.
Add fluid only after checking tktrmsmission fluid HOT.
(A COLD check i s used .only as a reference.) If the fluid
levd is low, add Only enough of the proper flvid. to bring
the le,vel up t.0 the HOT area fora hat check. It doesdt
take much fluid, ,generally less than Qne pint (0.5 L).
Don t ove.$ll.
NOTICE:
We recommend you use only fluid labeled
DEXRON@-III, because. fluid with that label is
made especidy for-. your automatic transmission.
.Damage caused. by fluid other than DEXRON-111
is not covered by y.our new vehicle warranty.
After srddiag fluid-, recheck the fluid Ievel as
described under “How to Check.”
When the-correct fluid level Ls obtained, .push the
dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle
down to lock the dipstick in place.
Manual TransmisSion Fluid
A good time to have it checked is when-the engine
o i l is changed. However, the fluid in your manual
transmission doesn’t require charging..
How to Check
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you
may choose to have this done at.you-r GM dealership
Service Department.
‘If YOU do it yourself, be sure. to follow all the
instructions here, or you could ge.t a false reading,
NOTICE:
Too much or too little-fluid can damage your
transmission. Too much can mean that same: u1
the fluid could come; out and fall on hot engine.
parts or exhaust system p-arts, starting a fire. Be
sure to get an accurate reading if you check your
tranqmission fluid.
%heck the fluid level only when your engine is .off, the
vehi-dle is parked on a level place and the lrtrarrsI’nissionisCool
e’nough for you torest your fingers :on the transmissision case.
Then, follow these steps:
1. Remove the filler plug.
2. Check that the lubxicant level is up.to the bott,om ~f
the fill&- plug hdle.
5. I f ’ b - f l uid level is good,. install the plug a d b e . sur&.
it is .ft111y seated. F t h e fluid level is low, add more
fluid as described in the next steps.
H-OW to Add Fluid
Here’s how to add fluid. Refer-to the Mailiteaance
Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See
“Recommended Fluid-s and Lubricants” in the Index.
1. Remove the filler plug.
2. Add fluid at the filler plug ho1.e. Add ~ n I y enough
fluid to bring the fluid level up to th-e bottom of the
filler plug- hole.
3. Install the filler plug. Be sure the plug is fully seated.
Hydraulic Clutch
The hydfaulic clutch system in your vehicle is
self-adjusting. A slight amount of play (1/4 inch .to
1/2 inch or 6 rnm to 12 mm) in the p.edal is normal.
It isn’t a gaod ‘idea to “top off” your -clutch..fluid,,
Ad,dingfluid won’t correct a leak. A fluid loss in this
system could indicate-a poblem. Have the :syste.m
inspected and repaired.
-6-21
When to Check and What to Use
Rear Axle
When to Check and Change Lubricant
R.efer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how
often .to check the 1ubric.ant and when to chaage it. See
“ScheduIed Maintenance Services” in the 1ndk.x.
How to Check Lub.ricant
Refer to .the M-aintenance- Schedule, Owner Checks and
Services, to determine. how often you: should check the
fluid h e 1 in your clutch master cylinder reservoir and for
the proper fluid. See “Owner Checks and Services” a d
“Fkcommended Fluids and Lubricants” In the Index.
How to Check
The proper fluid should be addeif$the‘levei does not
reach the battornof the diaphragm when it’s in place in
the reservoir. See the instructions on the re-servoir cap.
6-22
If the level is below the bottom of.the filler plug hole,
you’ll need to add s o m lubricant. Add enough lubricant
to raise, the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole.
What to Use
Refkr to the Mainteriance Schedule to determine- what
kind of lubricant to use., See “Remmmended Fluids and
Lubricants” in the Index.
Four- Wheel Drive
Most lubricant checks in this section also apply to
four-wheel-drive vehicles. However, they have
two additional systems that need lubrication.
Transfer Case
When to Check Lubricant
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how
often to check the lubricant. See “Periodic Maintenance
Inspections” in the Index.
How to Check Lubrimnt
If the level is below the bottom of the. filler plug hole,
you’ll need to add some lubricant. Add enough lubricant
to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole.
What to Use
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what
kind of lubrican-t-to use. See “Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants” in the Index.
Front Axle
When to Check and Change Lubricant
Referto the Maitltenance Schedule -to determine haw
often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See
“Scheduled Maintenance S-ervic-es” in the Index.
HOW to Check Lubricant
If the 1ev.el is below -the bottom of the filler plug hole,
youfll need to add some lubricant.
6-24
If the differential is at aperating temperature (warm),
add enough lubricant to ,raise the level to the bottom of
the filler plug hole,
If the differe.ntia1 is. cold, add enough lubricant to raise-
the level to 1/2 inch ( 12 mm) below the filler plug hole.
What to Use
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determirie what
kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants” in the Index.
Engine C,oolant
The cooling system in your vehicle is filled
with DEX-COOL@ engine coolant. This coolant is
designed to remain in your vehicle for:5 year$ or
150,000 miles (240 000 km), whicheveroccurs first,
if you add only DEX-COOL@ extended life coolant.
The fdIowing explains your .coaling system and how to
If YQU have a problem with
add coolant when it i s - 1 0 ~ ~
engine overheating, see “Engine Overheating’’ in
the Index.
A :50/50 mixture of water and DEX-COOL@ coolant far
your vehicle will:
Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C).
Give boiling protection up to-265'0F (129 "C).
0 Protect against rust and corrosion.
0 Help keep the proper engine temperature.
0 Let the w h g lights and gages work as they should.
NOTICE:
When adding. coolant, It is important that you use
only DEX--COOL@ (s&ate-&ee) coolant.
Tf co.olant other than DEX-COOL@ is added to
the system, premature. engine, heater core or
engine coolant will require change sdoner -- at
radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the
30,000 miles (SO 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.
W.hat to Use
Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably
distilled) and one-half DEX-COOL' coolant which
won't damage aluminum parts. If YOU use this mixture,
you don't need to add anything else.
Adding only plain water to your co ng system
can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other
Iiquid.like alcohol, can boil before the proper
coolant mix will. Your vehicle's coolant warning
system is set for the proper coolant mix. With
plain water or the wrong mix, your engme could
get too hot but you wouldn't get the overheat
warning. Your engme c:onld catch -6re and you or
others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of clean
water and DEX=COOLQ coolant.
6-25
Checking Coolant
When your engine i.s cold, the coolant level should be at
ADD, or a little higher. When your engine is warln, the
level should be up to FULL H.OT, or a little higher.
NOTICE:
If you .use an improper coolant mix, your engine
conld overheat and be badly damaged. The
repair cost wouldn’t be covered by p u r
warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze
and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and
other parts.
If you have. to add. coolant more than four times a year,
have your dealer check. your cooling system.
NOTICE:
If yon use. the proper coolant, you don’t have to
add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to
improve the system. These can be harmful.
6-26
.Add coolant mixture at the recovery tank; bdt be c-ap$ul
riot to spill.it.
Y h a n be Bmmd. if fl~~splsill coolant OM hot
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol,
and it will b.urn if the -engine pafts are hot
enoggh. D.on’t spill coolant-.on a hQt engine.,
Turning the radiator. pre$sare c&p when the
engine and radiator are. hot can. allow steam and
scalding liquids to.-blow out. and burn y,ou b-adly.
With the coolant recovery tank, you will alm.ost
Never turn the radiator? pressure cap -- even a
neve-r have- t.0 add coolant at the radiator.
little -- when the engine and radiator are hot.
6-27
Thermostat
Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat
in the engine coolant sys-tem. The. thermostat stops the
flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant
reaches a preset temperature.
Power Steering Fluid
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 tub.e on the radiator
filler neck.
6-28
When to Check Power $.teering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering
fluid unless you suspect there is a le.& in the,system or
y m hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system
could indicattt a problem. Have-the .-system inspecte.d
and repaired.
How To -Check Power Steering Fluid
When the engine compartment is cool, wipe the cap and.
the top of the-reservoir ciean,.then tms.crew the cap and
wipe the dipstick .with a clean rag. Replace th.ccap tind
completely :tighten .it. Then remove the cap again and
look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
The 1evel.sh.suld be between the- ADD and FULL
mxks. For the 2.2L engine, the. fluid level should be
at tbe C- mark. If rieCe;sssirfr, add m l y enou.gh fluid to
bring the level up to the proper range.
TO determine what kind of fluid to use, E&
“Recommended Fiuids and Lubricants” in the-:Index.
Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper
fluid can-cmse leaks and damage hoses-and seals.
Windshield Washer Flu,id
What to Use
When you need windshield washe? fluid, be sure to read
the:maaufact-’s instructions before me. If you will be
operating your vehicle in an area where. the. temperature
may fall below freezing, use a fluid th-at has su.fficien.t
protection against free2i.n.g.
6-2.9
.NOTIICE-:
When using concentrated washer fluid,
follow the manufacturer’s instructions .for
adding water.
Don’t mix water with rea-dy-to-use washer
to freeze.
fluid. Water can cause- the soIution
.and damage your washer fluid. tank .and
other parts of the washer system. Also,
water.doe-sn’t clean as well’aswasher fluid.
Fill yourwasher fluid tank only
thre-elquarters full-when it’s very cold. This
alIows for expansion if freezing occurs,
which codd damage: the tank if it is
completely full.
Don’t use radiator :antifreeze in your
windshield washer. It can damage your
washer system and paint.
Adding Washer Fluid
dpen the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY with the
washer synibol on it. Add washer fluid until the tank
is full.
6-30
Brakes
Brake Fluid
Your brake master cylinder reservoir is ha-e. It is filled
with DOT-3 brake fluid.
There .are only tw.0 reasons why the brake fluid level in
the reservoir might go down. The first is that, the brak.e
fluid goes. down to an acceptable level. :during normal
brake lining wear. When new lin-ings are put-in, the fluid
level goes back up. The other leason is that fluid is
leaking o.ut of the’brake system. If it is, you should lwve
your brake system fixed, since a leak means that so.oner
or later your brakes won’t work. well, or won’t work
at all.
So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your brczke fl.uid.
Adding brake fluid won’t correct :a leak. If-you add fluid
when your linings are. worn: then you’ll have too snucl.1
fluid when you. get new brake linings. You should add
(or remove) b1-ake fluid, as necessary, only when work is
done on the brake hydraulic system.
If you have too much brake fluid, it can spin
on the engine. The .fluid will burn if the- engine.
is hot enough. You or others could be burned,
and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake
fluid only when work is done on the brake
hydraulic @em.
Refel‘ to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when t.o
check your brake fluid. See “Periodic M.aintenance
Tnspection-s’” in the Index.
What to Adid
When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake
fluid -- Such as Delco Supreme 11
No.. 12377:967). Usenew brake fluid from a sealed
container only.
Always clean the brake, fluid reservuir cap and the area
around the cap. before removing it. Th.is will help keep
dirt from entering the reservoir.
(GM Paft
With the wrong kind. of fluid in your brake
system, your brakes may not work well, 'or' they
may not even work at all. This codd cause a
crash. Always use the proper- brake fluid.
Checking B-rake Fluid
You. can check. th.e .brake fluid without taking off the- cap.
Just look at the windows on the brake fluid reservoir.
The fluid levels. should be above MIN. If they aren't,
h.aw your-brake System checked to see if there is B leak.
After work i-s done on the brake hydraulic system,
make sure the levels are above MIN and below the top
of each window.
6-32
let someone put in the
Using the wrong fluid can badly damage
brake system parts, For example, just a few
drops of mineral-based oil, such as. engine
oil, in your brake system can dam-age brake
system patts-so badly that thef”l1 have to be
rep1aced:Don’t
wrong kind of fluid.
If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s
painted surfaces, the paint- finish can be
damaged:. $e careful not to spill brake fluid
on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off
imnxdiately. See “Appearance Care” in
the-Index.
Your vehicle has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes..
Disc brake ‘pads have built-in wear indicators that make. a.
high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn
and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or
be heard all the time your vehicle-is moving (except when
you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).
The brake wear warnirg sound. means that.s.oon
yaur brakes won’t work, well. That could lead to
an accident. When you hear the brake wear
warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.
I NOTICE:
I Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads
c’ould result in costly brake repair.
6-33
Brake Adjustment
Every time you make a brace s~op, your disc brakes
adjust for wear.
If your brake pedal goes down farthcr than normal., your
rear drum brakes may need-:adjustrnent. Adjust them by
backing up and firmly applying the brakes a few times.
Replacing B:rake System Pats
Some driving conditions or cljrnates may cause-a brake
squeal when. the brakes are first app1ie.d or li,ghtly
;ipplied. This; does.laot mean something is- wrong with
your brakes,
Propeiiy torqued wheel nuts axnecessary to h:elp
prevent. brake pulsation. When tirm are rotated, inspect
-brake pads for wear and evenly ‘torque wheel nuts in the
-proper sequence to GM specifications.
You r e a dnm brakes. don’t’h-ave wear irdicators, but- if
you ever hear a rex brake rubbing noise, have the rear
-brake- linings inspected. Also, the .rear brake drums should
be removed and inspected each time the tit-& are removed
-for rotatimar changing, When you have the &ant brakes
replaced, have the rear bp&m inspected, too,
.Brake linings should alw-ays be replaced as complete
axle -sets.
See, “Brake System I-nspection” ixl Section 7 of this manual
under Part C “Pexiodic Maintenance Inspections.”
.Brake P.edaL Travel
S-ee your dealer if the brake pedal does .not return to
normal hei-ht,, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal
,travel. This cau1.d
be a sign :qf brake troubk,
6-34
,
. -
Battery
Every -new vehicle h-as n D ~ C Q Freedom. .battery. You
never have to .add watu to one of these. When it’s time
for a new battery, we .recommend a .Deko Fteedom
battery. Get-one that has the replacement number shown
on .the. original battery’s label.
will help keep your battery from Mnming dawn. - Halogen bulbs have pressurized g y inside and
Bulb Replacement
&fore you replace any bulbs, .be .SUE that all .the k u ~ ~ p s
are off and the engine. isn’t running. See “Replacement
Bulbs” in the Index.
If you’re not going to drive your vehisle.for 25 days &+more,
take- off the black, negative (-) cable fkom the -battery. This
can burst if you drop 6.r scratch the bulb. You or
others could be injured. Be sure to read and
follow the instructions on the bulb packa.ge.
that
gas
can burn you and
ac.id
B-atteries
have
that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you
aren’t careful. See “Jumy? Starting” in the index
for tips on working a und a battery with9,qt
getting hurt.
Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle
far longer storage periods..
Also, for your. audio system, see “Theft-Deterrent
Feature” in the Index.
4-35
Headlamps.
Sealed Be.am.L.amps
1. -Remove the screws from
the headlamp. retainer.
2. .Pull the headlamp o-ut
and remove fhc retainer.
3 . Unplug and remove the headlamp.
4; Plugin the new headlamp and put it in place,
5. Put the retainex the
tighten the screws.
headlamp and install and.
c--
Composite Headlamps
1. Open. the hood.
2. Remove the black
protective cap.s from the
removal pins at the top
of the radiator support.
Use a hex socket to
unscrew the pins.
3. Pull the headlamp lens
assembly out. (Some
vehicles may have
side-by-side bulbs.)
4. Unplug the electrical connector.
6-37
5. Turn the. bulb
countercl.ockrwise to
remove it.
Front Turn Signal Lamps
If you. have fog.lamps, the fog lalizp bracket rnusE.De &H6v'ed
before you can rep1ac.e the front parking/!turn signal limps.
6. .Put-the new bulb into theheadlamp lens ass-ernbiy
and turn it clockwise until it is tight.
7. PhLg in the e1ectric.al connector.
8. P.ut the headlamp 1-ens assembly back into t.he
ve:hicle. Insrall and tighten the screws.
1, Rea.ch under the bumper and behind the parkin,g/turn
signal lamp assembly.
2. Push the tab on the socket, turn the socket
counterclockwise and pull it out,
3. Holding the base of the bulb, pull the bulb straight
out of the socket.
4. Push the new bu1b.int.o the socket until it clicks.
5. Put the socket-back into lhe parkinghrn signal lamp
assembly and turn it clockwise until it locks into place.
F.ront Sidemarker Lamps.
1 .
2.
3.
Remove the le-ns retaining screws.
Remove the sidenmker lens from the .radiator grille.
Turn the bulb and socket one-quarter of a-turn
counterclockwise,
Remove thebulb and socket fro'm the lens.
Install. the new:bulb and socket 10 the
sidemarker lens.
Rotate the bulb and-socket one-quarter of-a
.turn ciockwise.
Install the sidemarker lens to the radiator grille.
Insert the tabs into.the locators-
Tnstall and tighten the screws.
4.
5.
6 ,.
7.
8.
9.
Center High-Mounted- Stoplamp
1. Remove the lais i-.etairiing scre~s;
.2. Remove the lens.
3. Remove. the bulb.
Taillamps
1 .. Open the tailgate;
2. Re,move the-.screws f r ~ m
the lamp assembly nea
the tailgate latch..
4. Insrall a new bulb?
and tighten the screws.
If equipment--such as a cap or camper is installed on
your vehicle, a center high-mounted stoplamp feed wire
is provided along the driver's s.iid& rear fram-e. This wire
,-rshould be used to install a center high-mounted
'-stoplanip in the cap 'or c.mper;
6-40
3. Pull the assembly away from the pickup side. panel.
4. Turn the socket countexclockwise to remove it. Push
the tab. i-n while you turn the s,ocket.
5. Pull the bulb out.
,6. Push the new bulb into the socket-.
7. Put the scrcket into the assembly and.ttlrn the s:ocket
clockwk until it locks into-place-:
8. Rep1.ac-e-the assembly. Install and tighten the screws,
-9. Close the tailgate.
Underh.osd Lamp
1. Disconnect-the electrical conn&tor frum the
underhood lamp assemb1,y.
the screws.
2. Re~~iove
3.. Disconnect ,th,e ground wire.
4. Rembvei th.e lamp assembly fforn the hood.
5. Install the new bulb.
7. Connea the graun-d wire.
-8. Gonnixt the electrical connectbr to the
lamp assembly:
Vanity Ntirror Lamps
1. Insert the blade of a small screwdrivef-iizto the ceI1-ler
slo-t a,t the bottom ofthe lens.
2.. Gently pry tBe.Bcre.wdriver,d~wn in order to lift out
t k lens;
3. Pry out the bulb.
4, Pre.ss the new bulb into place.
5 , Sli&.=the. side tabs of the lens. mid& .the side ;of the
vanity ass.e-mbly frame.
6. Rotate the lens- downward,
7. Snap the lens into the fiame.
-Windshield Wiper Blade .Replacement
See “Normal Maintenance Replacement Pqrt.s” in the
Inde-x for the proper type of replacement blade.
I NOTICE:
Use care when -removing-or installing a blade
assernb-ly. ,Accidental bumping can cause the arm
to fall back and strike the windshield.
1.. To remove the old wiper blades;, lift the wiper arm
until it 1o.ck.s into a vertical position.
6-42
A. Bl.ad-e Asse.mbly
B. Arm Assembly
C. Locking Tab
D. Blade Pivot
E. Hook S.10t
E Arm Hook
5. Be sure- that the notche-s are 1:ocked .by the boztom
claws. Make sure that a11 other d a w s are properly