1994 Chevrolet Tracker Owners Manual

Your Driving and the Road Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the worst of all traffic accidents - the head-on collision. So here are some tips for passing:

“Drive ahead.’’ Look down the road, to the sides, and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time. Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings, and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually

. . . l o 6

indicates it’s all right to pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic. Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you won‘t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speed as the time comes to move into the other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a “running start” that more than makes up for the distance you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for another opportunity.

If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that someone isn’t trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember to glance over your shoulder and check the blind spot. Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal and move back into the right lane. (Remember that your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.) Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the next vehicle. Don’t overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly. Even though the brake lights are not flashing, it may be slowing down or starting to turn. If you’re being passed, make it easy for the following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease a little to the right.

loss of Control Let's review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control system (brakes, steering and acceleration) don't have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency. don't give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.

Skidding In a skid. a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions. and by not "overdriving" those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your Geo's three control systems. In the braking skid your wheels are.n't rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering i n a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force. And i n the acceleration skid too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin. A cornering skid and an acceleration skid are best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.

I f your vehicle starts t o slide, ease your foot 011' the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough. your vehicle may straighten out. 41ways be ready for ;I sccond skid if it occurs. Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow. ice. gravel. or other material is on the road. For safety, you'll want to slow down and adjust your driving t o these conditions. It is important t o slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited. While driving on a surface with reduced traction. try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, o r braking (including engine braking by shifting EO a lower gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until yout- vehicle is skidding. Learn t o recognize such a s enough water, warning clues ice or packed snow on the road to make ;1 "nlir~-or.ed surf'rlce" - and slow down when you have any doubt. Remember: The rex-wheel anti-lock braking system (RWAL) helps avoid only a rear braking skid. In a braking skid (where the front wheels are no longer

rolling), release enough pressure o n the brakes t o get the front wheels rolling again. This restores steering control. Push the brake pedal down steadily when you have t o stop suddenly. As long as the I'ront wheels are rolling, you will have sleering control.

Driving Guidelines

This multipurpose passenger vehicle is defined as a utility vehicle in Consumer Information Regulations issued by the National I-lighway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the United States Department of Transportation. Utility vehicles have higher ground clearance and a narrower track to make them capable of performing in a wide variety of off-road applications. Specific design characteristics give them a higher center of gravity than ordinary cars. An advantage of the higher ground clearance is a better view of the road allowing you to anticipate problems. They are not designed for cornering at the same speeds a s conventional 2-wheel drive vehicles any no re than low-slunl 7 .'p '-, orts cars are designed to perform satisfitctorily under off-road conditions. If at all possible, avoid shurp turns or abrupt maneuvers.

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Your Driving and the Road As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or vehicle rollover.

Off-Road Driving with Your Geo Four-wheel Drive Vehicle

This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel drive. Also, see “Anti-lock Brakes” in the Index. If your vehicle doesn’t have four-wheel drive, you shouldn’t drive off-road unless you’re on a level, solid surface. Off-road driving can be great fun. But it does have some definite hazards. The greatest of these is the terrain itself. “Off-roading” means you’ve left the great North American road system behind. Traffic lanes aren‘t marked. Curves aren’t banked. There are no road signs. Surfwes can be slippery, rough, uphill or downhill. In short, you’ve gone right back to nature. Off-road driving involves some new skills. And that’s why it’s very important that you read this guide. You’ll find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help make your off-road driving safer and more enjoyable. = . . l o 8

Before You Go Off-Roading There are some things to do before you go out. For example, be sure t o have a l l necessary maintenance and service work done. Be sure you read all the information about your four-wheel drive vehicle in this manual. Is there enough fuel? Is the spare tire fully inflated‘? Are the fluid levels up where they should be‘? What are the local laws that apply to off-roacting where you’ll be driving? If you don’t know, you should check with law enforcement people in the area. Will you be on someone’s private land? If so, be sure to get the necessary permission. Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving There are some important things to remember about how to load your vehicle.

The heavies1 things should be on the load floor and forward of your rear axle. Put heavier items a s far forward a s you can.

e Be sure the load is secured properly,

so driving on the off-road terrain doesn’t toss things around.

You’ll find other important information in this manual. See “Vehicle Loading” and ”Tires” i n the Index.

With your arms, hands, feet, and body you’ll need to respond to vibrations and vehicle bounce. Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful off-road driving. One of the best ways to control your vehicle is to control your speed. Here are some things to keep in mind. At higher speeds: 0 you approach things faster and you have less time to scan the terrain for obstacles.

0 you have less time to react. 0 you have more vehicle bounce when

you drive over obstacles.

0 you’ll need more distance for braking, especially since you’re on an unpaved surface.

Traveling to Remote Areas It makes sense to plan your trip, especially when going to a remote area. Know the terrain and plan your route. You are much less likely to get bad surprises. Get accurate maps of trails and terrain. Try to learn of any blocked or closed roads. It’s also a good idea to travel with at least one other vehicle. If something happens to one of them, the other can help quickly. Does your vehicle have a winch? If so, be sure to read the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch can be handy if you get stuck. But you’ll want to know how to use it properly.

Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving It’s a good idea to practice in an area that’s safe and close to home before you go into the wilderness. Off-road driving does require some new and different driving skills. Here’s what we mean. Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Your eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen for unusual tire or engine sounds.

Scanning the Terrain Off-road driving can take you over many different kinds of terrain. You need to be familiar with the terrain and its many different features. Here are some things to consider. Surface Conditions. Off-roading can take you over hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow or ice. Each of these surfaces affects the steering, acceleration, and braking of your vehicle in different ways. Depending upon the kind of surface you are on, you may experience slipping, sliding, wheel spinning, delayed acceleration, poor traction, and longer braking distances. Surface Obstacles. Unseen or hidden obstacles can be hazardous. A rock, log, hole, rut, or bump can startle you if you’re not prepared for them. Often these obstacles are hidden by grass, bushes, snow or even the rise and fall of the terrain itself. Here are some things to consider: 0 Is the path ahead clear? 0 Will the surface texture change

abruptly up ahead?

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very time you need special alertness and driving skills, your reflexes, perceptions and judgment can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol. You could have a serious - or even fatal - accident if you drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. (See “Drunken Driving” in the Index.)

Driving On Off-Road Hills Off-road driving often takes you up, jown, or across a hill. Driving safely on hills requires good judgment and an understanding of what your vehicle can md can’t do. There are some hills that ;imply can’t be driven, no matter how well built the vehicle.

Your Driving and the Road 0 Does the travel take you uphill or

downhill? (There’s more discussion of these subjects later.)

0 Will you have to stop suddenly or

change direction quickly?

When you drive over obstacles or rough terrain, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Ruts, troughs, or other surface features can jerk the wheel out of your hands if you’re not prepared. When you drive over bumps, rocks, or other obstacles, your wheels can leave the ground. If this happens, even with one or two wheels, you can’t control the vehicle as well or at all. Because you will be on an unpaved surface, it’s especially important to avoid sudden acceleration, sudden turns, or sudden braking. In a way, off-road driving requires a different kind of alertness from driving on paved roads and highways. There are no road signs, posted speed limits or signal lights. You have to use your own good judgment about what is safe and what isn’t. Drinking and driving can be very dangerous on any road. And this is certainly true for off-road driving. At the . . .I10

Approaching a Hill When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it’s one of those hills that’s just too steep to climb, descend, or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very small hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant incline with only a small change in elevation where you can easily see all the way to the top. On a large hill, the incline may get steeper as you near the top, but you may not see this because the crest of the hill is hidden by bushes, grass, or shrubs. Here are some other things to consider as you approach a hill.

Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get sharply steeper in places? Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the surface cause tire slipping? Is there a straight path up or down the hill so you won’t have to make turning maneuvers? Are there obstructions on the hill that can block your path (boulders, trees, logs or ruts)? What’s beyond the hill? Is there a cliff, an embankment, a drop-off, a fence? Get out and walk the hill if you don’t know. It’s the smart way to find out.

0

Ease up on your speed as you approach the top of the hill. Attach a flag to the vehicle to tnake you more visible to approaching traffic on trails or hills. Sound the horn as you approach the top of the hill to let opposing traffic know you’re there. Use your headlights even during the day. They make you more visible t o oncoming traffic.

0 Is the hill simply too rough‘? Steep hills

often have ruts, gullies, troughs and exposed rocks because they are more susceptible to the effects of erosion.

Driving Uphill Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you need to take some special steps. 0 Use a low gear and get a firm grip on

the steering wheel. Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain your speed. Don’t use more power than you need, because you don’t want your wheels to start spinning or sliding. Try to drive straight up the hill if at a1 possible. If the path twists and turns, you might want to find another route.

Q: What should I do if my vehicle

stalls, or is about to stall, and I can’t make it up the hill?

A:

If this happens, there are some things you should do, and there are some things you must not do. First, here’s what you should do: Push the brake pedal to stop the vehicle and keep it from rolling backwards. Also, apply the parking brake. I f your engine is still running, shift the transmission into reverse, release the parking brake, and slowly back down the hill in reverse. If your engine has stopped running, you’ll need to restart it. With the brake pedal depressed and the parking brake still applied, shift the transmission to “P” (Park) (or, shift to “N” (Neutral) if your vehicle has a manual transmission) and restart the engine. Then, shift to reverse, release the parking brake, and slowly back down the hill as straight as possible in reverse. As you are backing down the hill, put your left hand on the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position. This way,

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Your Driving and the Road

0: Suppose, after stalling, I try t o back down the hill and decide I just can't do it. What should I do?

A: Set the parking brake, put your

transmission in "P'* (Park) (or the manual transmission in first gear). and turn off the engine. Leave the vehicle and go get some help. Exit on the uphill side and stay clear of the path the vehicle would take if it rolled downhill. Do not shift thc transfer case to "N" (Neutral) when you leave the vehicle. Leave it in some gear.

you'll be able t o tell if your wheels are stl-aisht and maneuver as you back down. It's best t h u r ~ hill with your wheeis straight rather than in the left or right direction. Turning the wheel too far to the left or right w i l l increase the possibility of a rollover.

i);\c.l; c'lown the

Here are some things you must not do if you stall, or are about to stall, when going up a hill.

Never attempt to prevent a stall by shifting into "N" (Neutral) (or depressing the clutch. if you have a manual transmission) to "rev-up" the engine and regain forward rnornentum. This won't work. Your vehicle will roll backwards very quickly and you could go out of control. Instead. apply the regular brake to stop the vehicle. Then apply the parking brake. Shift into reverse, release the parking brake, and slowly back straight down. Never attempt to turn around if you are about to stall when going up a hill. If the hill is steep enough to stall your vehicle, it's steep enough to cause you to roll over if y o u turn around. If you can't make it up the hill, you must back straight down the hill.

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Driving Downhill When off-roading takes you downhill, JOU'II want to consider a number of hings: D How steep is the downhill'? Will

able to maintain vehicle control'? D What's the surfilce like? Smooth?

I be

Rough'! Slippery'? Hard-packed dirt? Gravel'?

0 Are there hidden surface obstacles?

Ruts? Logs? Boulders?

0 What’s at the bottom of the hill? Is there a hidden creek bank or even a river bottom with large rocks?

If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a low gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes and they won’t have to do all the work. Descend slowly, keeping your vehicle under control at all times.

Q: Are there some things I should not

do when driving down a hill?

Q: Am I likely to stall when going

downhill?

A: Yes! These are important because if

you ignore them you could lose control and have a serious accident.

When driving downhill, avoid turns that take you across the incline of the hill. A hill that’s not too steep to drive down may be too steep to drive across. You could roll over if you don’t drive straight down. Never go downhill with the transmission in “N” (Neutral), or with the clutch pedal depressed in a manual shift. This is called “free-wheeling.” Your brakes will have to do all the work and could overheat and fade. Avoid braking so hard that you lock the front wheels when going downhill. If your front wheels are locked, you can’t steer your vehicle. If your wheels lock up during downhill braking, you may feel the vehicle starting to slide sideways. To regain your direction, just ease off the brakes and steer to keep the front of the vehicle pointing straight downhill.

A:

It‘s much more likely to happen going uphill. But if it happens going downhill, here’s what to do. Stop your vehicle by applying the regular brakes. Apply the parking brake. Shift to “P” (Park) (or to Neutral with the manual transmission) and, while still braking, restart the engine. Shift back to a low gear, release the parking brake, and drive straight down. If the engine won’t start, get out and get help.

Driving Across an Incline Sooner or later, an off-road trail will probably go across the incline of a hill. If this happeris, you have to decide whether to try to drive across the incline. Here are some things to consider: 0 A hill that can be driven straight up or down may be too steep to drive across. When you go straight up or down a hill, the length of the wheel base (the distance from the front wheels to the rear wheels) reduces the

113 :. .

Your Driving and the likelihood the vehicle will tumble end over end. But when you drive across an incline. the much more narrow track width (the distance between the left and right whecls) may not prevent the vehicle from tilting and rolling over. Also, driving across an incline puts more weight on the downhill wheels. This could cause a downhill slide or a rollover. Surfkce conditions can be a problem when you drive across il hill. Loose gravel, muddy spots. or even wet grass can cause your tires to slip sideways, downhill. If the vehicle slips sideways. it can h i t something that will trip it ( a rock, a rut, etc.) and roll over. Hidden obstacles can make the steepness of the incline even worse. If you drive across a rock with the uphill wheels, or if the downhill wheels drop into a rut o r depression. your vehicle can tilt even more.

Stalling on an Incline If your vehicle stalls when you’re crossing an incline, be sure you (and your passengers) get out on the uphill side, even if the door there is harder to open. If you get out on the downhill side and the vehicle starts to roll over, you’ll be right in its path. If you have to walk down the slope, stay out of the path the vehicle will take if it does roll over.

Road

Drivihg across an incline that’s too steep will make your vehicle roll over. You could be seriously injured or killed. If you have any doubt about the steepness of the incline, don’t drive across it. Find another route instead.

Q: What if I’m driving across an

incline that’s not too steep, but I hit some loose gravel and start to slide downhill. What should I do‘?

A: If you feel your vehicle starting to slide sideways, turn downhill. This should help straighten out the vehicle and prevent the side slipping. However a much better way to prevent this is to get out and “walk the come” so you know what the surface is like bcforc you drive it.

For reasons like these, you need to decide carefully whether to try t o drive across an incline. Just because the trail goes across the incline doesn’t mean you have to drive it. The last vehicle t o iry it might have rolled over. . . .I14

It's best to use a low gear when you're i n mud -the deeper the mud, the lower the gear. In really deep mud, the idea is to keep your vehicle moving so you don't get stuck. When you drive on sand, you'll sense a change in wheel traction. But it will depend upon how loosely packed the sand is. On loosely packed sand (as on beaches or sand dunes) your tires will tend to sink into the sand. This has an effect on steering. accelerating, and braking. You may want to reduce the air pressure in your tires slightly when driving on sand. This will improve traction. Hard packed snow and ice offer the worst tire traction. On these surfaces, it's very easy to lose control. On wet ice, for example, the traction is so poor that you will have difficulty accelerating. .4nd if you do get moving, poor steering and difficult braking can cause you to slide out of control.

A CAUTION:

Driving in Water Light rain causes no special off-road driving problems. But heavy rain can mean tlash flooding, and tlood waters demand extreme caution. Find out how deep the water is before you drive through it. If it's deep enough to cover your wheel hubs, axles, or exhaust pipe, don't try il - you probably won't get through. Also, water that deep can damage your axle and other vehicle parts. If the water isn't too deep, then drive through it slowly. At fast speeds. water splashes on your ignition system and your vehicle can stall. Stalling can also occur if you get your tailpipe under water. ,4nd, as

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A CAUTION:

Driving in Mud, Sand, Snow or Ice When you drive i n mud, snow or sand, your wheels won't get good traction. You can't accelerate as quickly, turning is more difficult, and you'll need longer braking distances.

Your Driving and the Road long as your tailpipe is under water, you'll never be able to start your engine. When you go through water, remember that when your brakes get wet, it may take you longer to stop.

exhaust system for damage. Also, check the fuel lines and cooling system for any leakage. Your vehicle will require more frequent service due to off-road use. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule for additional information.

4 Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired - by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving.

Drive defensively. Don't drink and drive. Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlights behind you. Since you can't see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.

After Off-Road Driving Remove any brush or debris that has collected on the underbody, chassis or under the hood. These accumulations can be a fire hazard. After operation in mud or sand, have the brake linings cleaned and checked. These substances can cause glazing and uneven braking. Check the body structure, steering, suspension, wheels, tires, and

. . .116

vehicle with Inisaimed headlights), slow. down a little. Avoid staring directly into the approaching lights. Keep your windshield and a l l the glass on your vehicle clean - inside and out. Glare at night is nladc much worse by dirt on the glass. Even the inside of the glass can build up a f i l m caused by dust. Dirty glass makes lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would. making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly. Remember that your hcacilights light up far less of' LI roadway when you are i n a turn or curve. Kecp your eycs moving: that way, it's casier to pick out dimly lighted objects. Just as your headlights should be checked regularly for proper aim. so should your eyes be examined regulurly. Some drivers suffer from night blindness - the inability to see i n dim light - and aren't even aware of it.

Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlights can light up only so much road ahead. In remote areas. watch for animals. If you're tired, pull off the road in a safe place md rest.

Night Vision No one can see 11s well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A SO-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing a ( night :is a 20-year-old. What you do i n the daytime can also affect your night vision. For example. if you spend the day i n bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes t o night. will have less trouble adjusting But if you're driving, don't wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on glare from headlights. but they also make a lot of things invisible. You can be temporarily blinded by approaching lights. It c;tn take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes t o readjust to the dark. When you are k e d with severe glare (as from a driver who doesn't lower the high beams. or a

Driving in the Rain Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road you can't stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn't as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don't have much tread left, you'll get even less traction. It's always wise to go slower and be cautious if rain starts to f a l l while you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. The heavier the rain. the harder it is t o see. Even if your windshield wiper blades are in good shape. a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road, and even people walking.

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Your Driving and the Road It’s wise to keep your wiping equipment in good shape and keep your windshield washer tank filled. Replace your windshield wiper inserts when they show signs of streaking or missing areas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to separate from the inserts.

Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them.

. . . I 1 8

Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But it can if your tires haven’t much tread or if the pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone poles, or other vehicles, and raindrops “dimple” the water’s surface, there could be hydroplaning. Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There just isn’t a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.

Some Other Rainy Weather Tips

Turn on your low-beam headlights - not just your parking lights - to help make you more visible to others.

0 Besides slowing down, allow some

extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more

clear room ahead, and be prepared to have your view restricted by road spray.

0 Have good tires with proper tread depth. (See "Tires" in the Index.)

Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it. When a light turns green, and just before you start to move, check both ways for vehicles that have not cleared the intersection or may be running the red light.

City Driving

One ofthe biggest problems with city streets is the arnount of trafl'ic o n them. You'll want t o watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: 0 Know the best way to get t o where

you are going. Get a city rnap and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-country trip. Try t o use the freeways that rlrn and crisscross tnost large cities. You'll save time and energy. (See the next section, "Freeway Driving.")

1 1 9 . . .

Your Driving and the Road

3egin to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors and glance wer your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow. Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to the posted limit or to the prevailing rate if it’s slower. Stay in the right lane unless you want to pass. Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use your turn signal. Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your shoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle in your “blind” spot. Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move slightly slower at night. When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit.

I’he exit ramp can be curved, sometimes pite sharply. The exit speed is usually 3osted. Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of 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.

. . .122

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.

125 ...

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

. . ,126

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

127 ...

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.

133 ...

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.

139 ...

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.

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A CAUTION:

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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).