1994 Chevrolet Tracker Owners Manual

motion, After driving for any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are. Before Leaving on a Long Trip Make sure you’re ready. Try to be well rested, If you must start when you’re not Fresh - such as after a day’s work - don’t plan to make too many miles that Fist part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can easily drive in. [s your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it serviced and maintained, it’s ready to go. If it needs service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Geo dealerships all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it. Here are some things you can check before a trip:

Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside?

Freeway Driving

Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes, or superhighways) are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane. At the entrance there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should . . .I20

sleepy. Don’t let it happen to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the road in less than a second, and you could crash and be injured. What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, be aware that it can happen. Then here are some tips: 0 Make sure your vehicle is well

ventilated, with a comfortably cool interior.

0 Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your mirrors and your instruments frequently.

0 If you get sleepy, pull off the road into

a rest, service, or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as an emergency.

Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape? Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? Lights: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to the recommended pressure? Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook along your route? Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system? Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?

Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you

Hill and Mountain Roads

Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain. If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. (See “Off-Road Driving” in the Index for information about driving off-road.)

Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads.

I L I . . .

own lane when driving

Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission. and you can climb the hill better. Stay in y o ~ ~ r on two-lane roads i n hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cut ~tcross [he center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane. As you go over the top of a h i l l . be alert. There could be something in your lane. like a stalled car or an accident. You n~ay see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or no-passing zones, a falling rocks area, or winding roads. Be alert to these and take appropriate action.

Your Driving and the Road 0 Know how to go down hills. The mosl

t 0

important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.

1 0

If you don’t shift down, your brakes could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to let your engine assist your brakes on a steep downhill slope.

A CAUTION:

Coasting downhill in “N” (Neutral) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.

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Winter Driving

Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your Geo in good shape for winter. Be sure your engine coolant mix is correct. You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your vehicle.

Include an ice scraper7 a small brush or broom. a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth, and a couple of reflective warning triangles. And, i f you will be driving under severe conditions, include :I small bag of sand, ;I piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure yo11 properl}, secure these item i n your vehicle.

Driving on Snow or Ice Most o f the time. those placcs where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. Howe\w-. it’ thcrc is snow or ice between your tires antl the road, you can Iwve ;I very slippery situation. You‘ll have ;t l o t less traction or “grip“ and will need to be very careful. What‘s the worst time for this’? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hurd t o drive on. Rut wet ice can be even more trouble because it nlay offer the least traction o f a l l . You can get ”wet ice” when it’s about freezing (32°F; 0°C) and freezing rain begins to f a l l . Try to avoid hiving on wet ice until salt and sand :rews can get there.

Whatever the condition - smooth ice. packed. blowing or loose snow - drive with caution. Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more. Your anti-lock brakes improve your ability t o make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have an anti-lock braking system. you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-lock” i n the Index. Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you h i t H spot that’s covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road. ice patches may appear in shaded areas where the sun can’t reach: around clumps of trees. behind buildings, or under bridges. Sometimes the surftlce of a curve or an overpass may remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steerins maneuvers.

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Your Driving and the Road

If You’re Caught in a Blizzard If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: Turn on your hazard flashers. Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats - anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm. You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful. . . ,124

Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with your headlights. Let the heater run for awhile. Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long 3s you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes.

Towing a Trailer

NOTICE: Pulling a trailer improperly can dam- age your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty, To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this section, and see your Geo dealer for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.

Your vehicle can tow a trailer. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability, and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this section. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer. Load-pulling components such as the engine, transmission, wheel assemblies, and tires are forced to work harder against the drag of the added weight. The engine is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads, generating extra heat. What’s more, the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements.

If You Do Decide to Pull a Trailer If you do, here are some important points. There are many different laws having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.

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Your Driving and the Road Three important considerations have to do with weight:

Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg), But even that can be too heavy. 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. You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at:

Customer Assistance Department Chevrolet/Geo P.O. Box 7047 Troy, MI 48007-7047

In Canada, write to:

General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Assistance Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

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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 “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index for more information about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity. If you’re using a “dead-weight” hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a “weight-distributing” hitch, the

:railer tongue (A) should weigh 12% of ;he 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 uen’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 limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver’s door or see “Tire Loading” in the Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle.

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: 0 If you use a step bumper hitch, and your trailer tongue has a V-shaped foot, your bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Check the distance from the front edge of the foot to the middle of the hitch ball socket. If the

0

distance is less than 12 inches, take the foot off the trailer tongue. 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 t o 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 "Carbon Monoxide" 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 so that the tongue will not drop to 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. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with pour rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.

Trailer Brakes If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg) loaded, then it needs its

they must be adequate. own brakes -and Be sure t o read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you'll be able to install, ad-just and maintain them properly.

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 systems won't work well. You could even lose your brakes. Will the trailer brake 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 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 so responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform. safety chains, electrical contwxtor. lights, 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 lights 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 tnliler. And. because you're B good deal longer, you'll need to go much farther beyond the

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Your Driving and the Road passed vehicle before vou 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.

Making Turns 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 a different turn signal flasher and extra wiring. The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lights will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop. . .-’ . 1 28

When towing a trailer, the green 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. On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce your speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce the possibility of engine and transmission overheating. If you are towing a trailer and you have a manual transmission with fifth gear, you may prefer not to use fifth gear. Just drive in fourth gear (or, as you need to, .a lower gear).

Parking on Hills You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could

start to move. People can be injured, and both 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 regular brakes, but don’t shift into “F’” (Park) yet, or into gear for a manual transmission.

2. Have someone place chocks under the

trailer wheels.

3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.

4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then

apply your parking brake, and then shift to ‘T” (Park), or “R” (Reverse) for a manual transmission.

5. If you have a four-wheel-drive

vehicle, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear - not in “N” (Neutral).

6. Release the regular brakes.

2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear

of the chocks.

4. Stop and have someone pick up and

store the chocks.

Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you're pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. rhings that are especially important in :railer operation are automatic .ransmission lluid (don't overfill), engine oil? axle lubricant, belts, cooling system, and brake adjustment. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you're trailering, it's a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.

When You Are Ready to Leave after Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold

the pedal down while you:

Start your engine; Shift into a gear; and

0 Release the parking brake.

Recreational Vehicle To wing

There may be times when you want to :ow your Geo behind another vehicle for Jse at your destination. Be sure to use the proper towing equipment designed for -ecreational towing. Follow the Instructions for the towing equipment. rowing Your Geo from the Rear rhe best way to tow your Geo is from the -ear. Follow these steps: 1. Put the rear wheels on a dolly.

I NOTICE: I Do not tow your Geo with the rear

wheels i n contact with the ground. or the transmission could be damaged.

129.

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Your Driving and the Road 2. Set the parking brake. 3. If your Geo is a four-wheel-drive

vehicle, set your manual freewheeling hubs to ”FREE” or unlock your automatic I‘reewheeling hubs. See “Four-wheel Drive” i n the Index. 4. Turn the ignilion key to ”ACC’‘ to

unlock the steering wheel.

5. Clamp the steering wheel i n a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing.

6. Release the parking brake.

I NOTICE: I Make sure that the towing speed does

not exceed 55 mph (90 km/h), or your Geo could be badly damaged.

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~~

Towing Your Geo from the Front

NOTICE: If your vehicle has automatic free- wheeling hubs o r two-wheel drive, do not tow it on all four wheels. If you do, your transmission could be damaged.

If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle with manual freewheeling hubs, it can be towed from the front with a l l four wheels on the ground. Follow these steps: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Turn the ignition key to “ACC” t o

unlock the steering wheel.

3. Shift your automatic transmission into

“ P ” (Park), or your manual transmission into “2” (Second).

4. Shift the transfer case to “N”

(Neutral).

5. Set the hubs to “FREE.” See

“Four-wheel Drive” in the Index.

6. Reledse the parking brake, Stop towing every 200 miles (300 km) and start the engine. Leave the transfer case shift lever in ”N” (Neutral). Shift your automatic transmission to “D” (Drive); leave a manual transmission in “2” (Second) and release the clutch. Run the engine a t medium speed for one minute to circulate the oil in the transfer case. Turn the ignition key to “ACC.” Now, you can continue towing your Geo.

I NOTICE: I Make sure the towing speed does not

exceed SO mph (80 km/h), or your Geo could be badly

damaged.

I

/A\

Part 5 Problems on the Road

H e r e you'll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . JumpStarting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Towing Yourvehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . If You're Stuck: I n Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

132 133 136 140 I46 IS3

131 . . .

Problems on the Road

Hazard Warning Flashers

Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lights will tlash on and off.

Press the button in to make your front and rear turn signal lights flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn't in.

To turn off the flashers, push the switch again. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won't work.

Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m> behind your vehicle.

. . . I 3 2

I

Jump Starting

If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Geo. But please follow the steps below to do it safely.

NOTICE: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your war- ranty. Trying to start your Geo by pushing or pulling it could damage your vehicle, even if you have a manual transmission. And if you have an automatic transmission, it won’t start that way.

To Jump Start Your Geo: 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have

a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. NOTICE:

If the other system isn’t a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged.

2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your Geo, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Turn off all lights that aren’t needed, and radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio!

I NOTICE: I If you leave your radio on, it could be

badly damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

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Problems on the Road 4. Open the hoods and locate the

batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each.

1 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.

6. Positive (+) goes to positive (+) and negative (-) goes to negative (-) or a metal engine part. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

. . .134

7. Don't let the other end touch metal.

Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

8. Now connect the black negative

(-)

cable to the good battery's negative (-) terminal. Don't let the other end touch anything until the next step.

9. 'The other end of the negative cable

doesn't go to the dead battery. It goes t o a heavy, unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the tiead battery. but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there. but the chance o f sparks getting back to the battery is much less.

10. N o w start the vehicle with the good

bartcry ~ l n d 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. it probably needs service.

135..

0

That your vehicle has rear-wheel drive, or that is has the four-wheel-drive option. The make, model, and year of your vehicle. Whether you can still move the shift levers for the transmission and transfer case, if you have one. If there was an accident, what was damaged.

When the towing service arrives, let the tow operator know that this manual contains detailed towing instructions and illustrations. The operator may want to see them.

Problems on the Road

2. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don't touch each other or any other metal. A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery

. . I 3 6

Towing Your Vehicle

Try to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your Geo. The usual towing equipment is a sling-type ( A ) or a wheel-lift (B) or car carrier (C) tow truck. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory-new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct. Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers. When you call, tell the towing service:

A dolly must be used when towing from the front.

G

A CAUTION:

To help avoid injury to you or others:

Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured. Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by the tow truck. Always use seperate safety chains on each side when towing a vehicle. Never use T-hooks. Use “J” hooks instead.

i.

When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key off. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle’s steering column lock for this. The transmi.ssion and transfer case, if you have one, should be in “Neutral” and the parking brake released. Don’t have your vehicle towed with the rear wheels in contact with the ground. If a vehicle must be towed from the front with sling-type or wheel lift equipment, the rear wheels must be supported on a dolly. If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, don’t have it towed on the front wheels unless you must. If a vehicle with four-wheel drive must be towed on the front wheels, set your tnanual, freewheeling hubs to “FREE” or unlock your automatic freewheeling hubs, and set your transfer case to two-wheel drive. If your vehicle must be towed on the front wheels, don‘t go more than 55 rnph (90 km/h).

1 3 1 . . .

I/

Attach a separate safety chain around outboard end of each lower control arm.

Problems on the Road

Position 4x4 wood beam across sling :hains and against lower control arm fron machment brackets. Position the lower

I NOTICE: I Dollies are required under the rear

wheels or damage will occur.

i’ront Towing Hook-ZJps ittach “J” hooks to the rear of lower :onlrol arms inboard of springs.

. . . I 3 8

Rear Towing Hook-Ups Attach “J” hooks around axle tube.

I NOTICE: I Take care not to darnage the brake

pipes on the axle tubes.

Position the sling crossbar under and forward of the rear bumper.

Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each side of the rear axle.

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Problems on the Road

Engine Overheating

You will find a coolant temperature gage on your Geo instrument panel.

If Steam Is Coming from Your Engine:

NOTICE: If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be cov- ered by your warranty.

If No Steam Is Coming from Your Engine: If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: 0 Climb a long hill on a hot day. 0 Stop after high speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer.

If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. If you have an air conditioner, turn it

off.

. . .140

2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the

highest fan speed and open the window as necessary.

3. If you’re in a traffic jam, shift to “N”

(Neutral).

If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about ten minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for two or three minutes while you’re parked, to see if the warning stops. But then, if you still have the warning, TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND GET EVERYONE OUT OF THE VEHICLE until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.

2ooling System Vhen you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, lere’s what you’ll see on the 8-valve mgine: Coolant Recovery Tank !. Radiator Pressure Cap 1. Electric Engine Fan

lere’s what you’ll see on the 16-valve :ngine: I. Coolant Recovery Tank !. Radiator Pressure Cap I. Electric Engine Fan

1 4 1 . . .

Problems on the Road

If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. The coolant level should be at or above “FULL.” If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.

I NOTICE: I Engine damage from running your

engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty.

[f there seems to be no leak, check to see if the electric engine fan is running. If the mgine is overheating, the fan should be running. If it isn’t, your vehicle needs service.

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank [f you haven’t found a problem yet, but :he coolant level isn’t at or above the “FULL” mark, add a 50/50 mixture of :lean water (preferably distilled) and a xoper antifreeze at the coolant recovery :a&. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper :oolant mix.)

. . .I42

~~

~~~

NOTICE: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recom- mended coolant.

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above the "FULL" mark. start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there's ope more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant m i x directly to the radiator, but be sure the coolink 7 . 4: y. stem is cool before you do it.

A CAUTION:

Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pres- sure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap - even a little - they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

1 4 3 . .

Problems on the Road

2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down a s you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.

3. Fill the radiator with the proper mix,

up to the base of the filler neck.

How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 1. You can remove the radiator pressure

cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap an( upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly to the left 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.

. . .I44

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to

the "FULL" murk.

Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.

6.

Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fan. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper m i x through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.

145 ...

Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes tlat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers.

Problems on the Road

If a Tire Goes Flat

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, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout.” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire Fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Tdke your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane. A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you’d use in a skid. In any rear blowout, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It rnay be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. fently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible. If a tire goes tlat, the next section shows how to use your jacking equipment to :hange a tlat tire safely.

7, Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure, if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this.

. .I46

...

A CAUTION:

.v ,

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: 1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put an automatic transmission shift lever in T“ (Park), or shift a manual 3. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure the transfer case is in a drive

transmission to “ 1” (First) or “R” (Reverse).

gear - not in “ N ’ (Neutral).

4. Turn off the engine. To be even more certain the vehicle won’t move, you can put chocks 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.

The following steps will tell you how to .rse the jack and change a tire. The equipment you’ll need is under the ront seats. rhejack and wheel wrench are under the passenger’s seat.

147 ...

Problems on the Road

Attach the jack handle to the jack. Turn the jack handle to the right to raise the lift head.

The jack handle is under the driver’s seat.

;tart with Ihe jack (A), jack handle (R) .nd wheel wrench (C).

. . .148

The spare tire is mounted on your tailgate Pull the cover off of the spare tire.

.nsert your key into the wheel lock on the ;pare tire and pull the wheel lock off.

Remove wheel nuts with the wheel wrench. Remove the spare tire from the mounting bracket and place it near your flat tire. Attach the jack handle to the jack bolt. Turn the jack handle clockwise (to the right). That will raise the lift head a little.

149 ...

Problems on the Road

NOTICE: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle to fall off the jack. Be sure to fit the jack lift head inlo the proper location before raising your vehicle.

ut art PC he ne

1der the vehicle near each wheel. there : bosses in the vehicle's rocker tlange. Isition the jack and raise the jack lift ad until it fits firmly onto the bosses

arest the tlat tire. A CAUTION:

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 vehicIe when it is supported only by a jack.

Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts. Don't rerrlove them yet.

. . ,150

Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enqugh off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.

Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. Place the spare on the wheel mounting surface.

151 ...

Problems on the Road

Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack zompletel y.

3ghten the wheel nuts firmly in a :riss-cross sequence as shown.

Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

. . .I52

1. Front Passenger Seat 2. Jack 3. Clamp 4. Wrench 5. Jack Handle 6. Driver Seat Replace the jack, jack handle, flat tire, and wheel wrench.

If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.

153 ...

Problems on the Road

NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transmission back and forth, you can destroy your trans- mission.

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 “R” (Reverse) and a forward gear (or with a manual transmission, between First or Second gear and Reverse), 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 gear. If that doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. Or, you can use your recovery hooks, if your vehicle has them. If you do need to be towed out, see “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

. . I154

Using the Recovery Hooks If you ever get stuck in sand, mud, ice or snow, your Tracker is equipped with recovery hooks. The recovery hooks are provided at the front and rear of your vehicle. You may need to use them if you’re stuck off-road and need to be pulled to some place where you can continue driving.

NOTICE: Never use the recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your Tracker could be darnaged and it would not be covered by warranty.

H e r e you will find information about the care of your Geo . This part begins with service and fuel information. and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels . There is also technical information about your vehicle. and a section devoted to its appearance care .

Service & Appearance Care

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Checking Things under the Hood ................................... HoodRelease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Engineoil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aircleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Automatic Transmission Fluid .................................... Manual Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clutch Adjustment ............................................. RearAxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Four-WheelDrive ............................................. Enginecoolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Steering Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Windshield Washer Fluid ........................................ Brake Master Cylinder .......................................... Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Loading Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appearancecare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appearance Care Materials Chart ................................... Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ................................ Service Parts Identification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Add-on Electrical Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ReplacementBulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Capacities and Specifications .......................................

156 156 159 159 162 165 167 168 169 169 170 170 173 174 174 176 177 181 183 189 195 196 196 196 196 199 200 155 ...

Service and Appearance Care

xoper service manual, see “Service Publications” in the Index. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date Df any service work you perform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index.

I Service lour Geo dealer knows your vehicle best nd wants you to be happy with it. We lope you’ll go to your dealer for all your ervice needs. You’ll get genuine GM ‘arts and GM-trained and supported xvice people. i’e hope you’ll want to keep your GM ehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have ne of these marks. loing Your Own Service Work F YOU want to do some of your own ervice work, you’ll want to get the lroper Geo Service Manual. It tells you mch more about how to service your ;eo than this manual can. To order the

. . .I56

NOTICE: If you try to do your own service work without knowing enough about it, your vehicle could be damaged. Fuel

Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s easy to be sure you get the right kind of gasoline (unleaded). You’ll see “UNLEADED” right on the pump. And only unleaded nozzles will fit into your vehicle’s filler neck. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you’re using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t

worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem. What about gasoline with blending materials that contain oxygen (oxygenates), such as MTBE or alcohol? MTBE is “methyl tertiary-butyl ether.” Fuel that is no more than 15% MTBE is fine for your vehicle. Ethanol is ethyl or grain alcohol. Properly-blended fuel that is no more than 10% ethanol is fine for your vehicle. Methanol is methyl or wood alcohol.

NOTICE: Fuel that is more than S% methanol is bad for your vehicle. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty. And even at 5% or less, there must be “cosolvents” and corrosion prevent- ers in this fuel to help avoid these problems.

Gasolines for Cleaner Air Your use of gasoline with deposit control additives will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system. That helps keep your engine in tune and your emission control system working properly. It’s good for your vehicle, and you’ll be doing your part for cleaner air. Many gasolines are now blended with oxygenates. General Motors recommends that you use gasolines with these blending materials, such as MTBE and ethanol. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high carbon monoxide levels. In addition, some gasoline suppliers are now producing reformulated gasolines. These gasolines are specially designed to reduce vehicle emissions. General Motors recommends that you use reformulated gasoline. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high ozone levels. You should ask your service station operators if their gasolines contain deposit control additives and oxygenates, and if they have been reformulated to reduce vehicle emissions.

Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the U.S. or Canada, unleaded fuel may be hard to find. Do not use leaded gasoline. If you use even one tankful, your emission controls won’t work well or at all. With continuous use, spark plugs can get fouled, the exhaust system can corrode, and your engine oil can deteriorate quickly. Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor will be damaged. All of that means costly repairs that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. To check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving. You can also write us at the following address for advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). General Motors Overseas Distribution

Corporation

North American Export Sales (NAES) 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario LlH 8P7

157..

Service and Appearance Care

I’o take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise).

NOTICE: If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit or have proper venting, and your fuel tank and emissions system might be damaged.

Filling Your Tank

The cap is behind a hinged door on the right side of your vehicle.

. . .158

Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Geo” in the Index. When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right until you hear at least three :licks.

Checking Things under the Hood Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the release nandle inside the glove box.

rhen go to the front of the vehicle, push lown lightly on the hood, and push the lood release lever to your left.

.ift the hood, release the hood prop from :s retainer and put the hood prop into the lot in the hood.

159..

6% CAUTION:

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 pXastic OT rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on.

Service and Appearance Care

When you open the hood, you’ll see on the 8-valve engine: 1. Battery 2. Automatic Transmission Dipstick

(if equipped) 3. Oil Fill Cap 4. Brake Fluid Reservoir 5. Air Cleaner 6. Engine Coolant Reservoir

7. Power Steering Reservoir 8. Radiator Pressure Cap 9. Electric Engine Fan IO. Engine Oi I Dipstick 11. Windshield Washer Rescrvoir 12. Main Fuse Box

. . .160

A CAUTION:

Things that b m can get on hot engiae parts and start a fxe. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will bum onto a hot engine.

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on.

161 ...

When you open the hood, you’ll see on the 16-valve engine: 1. Battery 2. Automatic Transmission Dipstick

(if equipped) 3. Oil Fill Cap 4. Brake Fluid Reservoir 5. Air Cleaner 6. Engine Coolant Reservoir

7. Power Steering Reservoir 8. Radiator Pressure Cap 9. Electric Engine Fan IO. Engine Oil Dipstick 11. Windshield Washer Reservoir 12. Main Fuse Box

Service and Appearance Care

rhen lift the hood to relieve pressure on he hood prop. Remove the hood prop rom the slot in the hood and return the Jrop to its retainer. Then just let the hood [own and close it firmly.

Engine Oil It’s a good idea to check your engine oil level every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. 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.

To Check Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip lower.

. .162

X-Valve Engine

IO-Valve Engine

Just fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you‘re through.

When to Add Oil: If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, you’ll need to add some oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index.

NOTICE: Donl add too tnuch oil. If your engine has so much oil that the o i l level gets above the upper mark that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged.

What Kind of Oil to Use Beginning midyear 1993, oils of the proper quality for your vehicle will be identified with this new “starburst” symbol. The “starburst” symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API), and is preferred for use in your gasoline engine. You should look for this on the front of the oil container, and use o& oils that display this new symbol. You should also use the proper viscosity oil for your vehicle, as shown in the following chart:

163 ...

Service and Appearance Care

Recommended SAE Viscosity

Grade Engine Oils

For best fuel economy and cold starting, select the lowest SAE viscosity grade oil for the expected temperature range. HOT

WEATHER

-80

- 2 7

SAE 5W-30 PREFERRED

COLD

WEATHER IF NEITHER SAE 5W-30 NOR SAE 1OW-30 GRADE OILS ARE AVAILABLE, SAE 30 GRADE MAY BE USED AT TEMPERATURES ABOVE 40 DEGREES F (4 DEGREES C). DO NOT USE SAE 1OW-40, SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRAOE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED.

. . .164

As shown in the chart, SAE SW-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE IOW-30 if it’s going to be 0°F (-1 8°C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE IOW-40 or SAE 2OW-SO. If you cannot find oils with the new “starburst” symbol on the front of the container, you should look for and use oils containing the following three things:

Ski or SG “SH” or “SG” must be on the oil container, either by itself or combined with other quality designations, such as “SHKD,” “SH,SG,CD,” “SGKD,” etc. These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality. SAE SW-30 Energy Conserving I1 Oils with these words on the container will help you save fuel.

These three things are usually included in 1 doughnut shaped logo (symbol) on most Zontainers. If you cannot find oils with the “starburst” symbol, you should look for lils with the doughnut shaped symbol, ;.ontaining the three things noted above. NOTICE: If you use oils that do not have either the “starburst” symbol or an API SH or SG designation, you can cause engine damage not covered by your warranty.

3 M Goodwrench” oil (in Canada, GM Engine Oil) meets all the requirements [or your vehicle.

Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Geo dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil See if any one of these is true for you:

Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km). It’s below freezing outside and most trips are less than 10 miles ( 1 6 km). The engine is at low speed most of the time (as in door-to-door delivery, or stop-and-go traffic). You tow a trailer often. Most trips are through dusty places. The vehicle is frequently operated off-road.

If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months - whichever comes first. If none of them is true, change oil and filter every 7,500 miles (1 2 500 km) or 7.5 months - whichever comes first.

Engine Coolant Heater (Engine Block Heater) An engine coolant heater can be a big help if you have to park outside in very cold weather, 0°F (-I 8°C) or colder. If your vehicle has this option, see “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index. What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.) Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all free-tlowing oil from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead. recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used o i l . If you have a problem properly disposing. of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.

Air Cleaner Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to detertnine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services“ ir

the Index. A CAUTION:

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.

165.

Service and Appearance Care

I NOTICE:

16-Valve Engine

If the air cleaner is off, a backfire can cause a damaging 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.

Air Filter Replacement (8-Valve Engine) To check or replace the filter: 1. Remove the screws. 2. Lift up the cover. 3. Pull out the filter.

Air Filter Replacement (16-Valve Engine) To check or replace the filter: 1. Remove the screws on the cover. 2. Lift it up. 3. Pull out the filter.

. . .I66

Should the fluid level be low during a cold check, you must perform a hot check before adding fluid. This will give you a more accurate reading of the fluid level.

To check the fluid hot or cold 0 Park your vehicle on a level place.

Keep the engine running.

0 With the parking brake applied, place

the shift lever in “ P ’ (Park).

0 With your foot on the brake pedal,

move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in “P” (Park).

0 Let the engine run at idle for three

minutes or more.

I A utomatic Transmission FIuid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to change your fluid. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Geo dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.

NOTICE: Too much or too little tluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission tluid.

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transmission fluid level if you have been driving: 0 When outside temperatures are above

90°F (32°C).

0 At high speed for quite a while.

In heavy traffic - especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). To check transmission fluid hot: Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about IS miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F ( 10°C). If it’s colder than 50°F (IOOC), drive the vehicle in “D” (Third Gear) until the engine temperature gage moves and then remains steady for ten minutes. Then follow the hot check procedures. To check transmission fluid cold: A cold check is made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off and i s used only as a reference. Let the engine run a t idle for five minutes if outside temperatures are 50°F (10°C) or more. If it’s colder than 50°F (IO’C), you may have to idle the engine longer.

1 6 7 . ,

Service and Appearance Care

take much fluid, generally less than a pint. Don’t overfill. We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-III or DEXRON@-IIE, because fluids with that label are made especially for your automatic transmission. Dama e caused by fluid other than DEXRON 8 -m or DEXRON@-IIE is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. 0 After adding fluid, recheck the fluid

level as described under “How to Check.” When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way.

Manual Transmission Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is changed. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to change your transmission fluid. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. How to Check: Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Geo dealership Service Department.

Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: 1. 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.

. . . I 6 8

3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the “COLD’ area for a cold check or in the “HOT” area or cross-hatched area for a hot check. 4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way.

How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. [f the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level up to the “COLD” area for a cold check or the “HOT” area for a hot check. It doesn’t

If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading.

NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can darnage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the tluid could come out and Pall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure to get an accurate read- ing if you check your transmission fluid.

Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transmission is cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the transmission case. Then, follow these steps: 1. Remove the filler plug. 2. Check that the lubricant level is up to

the bottom of the filler plug hole. 3. If the fluid level is good, install the plug and be sure it is fully seated. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid as described in the next steps.

How to Add Fluid: Here’s how to add tluid. Refer t o the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of tluid t o use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 1. Rernove the filler plug. 2. Add tluid at the filler plug hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level LIP to the bottom of the filler plug hole.

3. Install the filler plug. Be sure the plug

is fully seated.

CIutch Adjustment The clutch linkage in your vehicle should be checked as recommended in your Maintenance Schedule. To check, push the clutch pedal down with your hand until you feel some resistance to movement of the pedal. If the pedal moves freely up to an inch (25 mm) or so before you feel resistance to the travel, adjustment isn’t needed. If there is no free travel or very little (less than S/8 of an inch), see your dealer for adjustment.

Rear Axle WheR to Check and Change Lubricant Refer t o the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” and “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

How to Check Lubricant 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 01‘ lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

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Service and Appearance Care Four- Wheel Drive Most lubricant checks in this section also apply to four-wheel-drive vehicles. However, they have two additional systems that need lubricatiog.

Front Axle When to Check and Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” and “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

How to Check Lubricant If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant. If the differential is at operating temperature (warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole. If the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to raise the level to 1/2 inch (12 mm) below the filler plug hole.

Transfer Case When to Check qnd Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

How to Check Lubricant 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 lybricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

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Engine 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 “Engine Overheating” in the Index. The proper coolant for your Geo will: Give freezing protection down to -20°F (-29”C), or -34°F (-37°C) in Canada and for vehicles with the cold climate option. Give boiling protection up to 258°F (125°C). Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights work as they should.

What to Use: Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half antifreeze that meets “GM Specification