Trailer brakes, Driving with a trailer, Caution – Oldsmobile 2002 Bravada User Manual

Page 253

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Trailer Brakes

If your trailer weighs more than 1,500 lbs. (680 kg)
loaded, then it needs its own brakes

--

and they must be

adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for
the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust and
maintain them properly.

Your trailer’s brake system can tap into the vehicle’s
hydraulic brake system only if:
D The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi

(20 650 kPa) of pressure.

D The trailer’s brake system will use less than

0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your
vehicle’s master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking
systems won’t work well. You could even lose
your brakes.

If everything checks out this far, then make the brake
fluid tap at the port on the master cylinder that sends
fluid to the rear brakes. But don’t use copper tubing
for this. If you do, it will bend and finally break off.
Use steel brake tubing.

Driving with a Trailer

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 “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.
To maximize your safety when towing a trailer:
D Have your exhaust system inspected for

leaks, and make necessary repairs before
starting on your trip.

D Keep the rear

-

most windows closed.

D 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 recirculation
because it only recirculates the air inside
your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in
the Index.

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