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Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum permissible
load on the front and rear axles. The
load must be distributed in the cargo
area so that the GAWR of each axle is
not exceeded.
Each axle GAWR is determined by the
components in the system with the
lowest load carrying capacity (axle,
springs, tires or wheels). Heavier axles
or suspension components sometimes
specified by purchasers for increased
durability does not necessarily increase
the vehicle's GVWR.
Tire Size
The tire size on the Vehicle Certification
Label represents the actual tire size on
your vehicle. Replacement tires must be
equal to the load capacity of this tire
size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate
for the tire size listed.
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for
your vehicle for all loading conditions up
to full GAWR.
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined
as the total weight of the vehicle with all
fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full
capacity conditions, and with no
occupants or cargo loaded into the
vehicle. The front and rear curb weight
values are determined by weighing your
vehicle on a commercial scale before
any occupants or cargo are added.
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The actual total weight and the weight
of the front and rear of your vehicle at
the ground can best be determined by
weighing it when it is loaded and ready
for operation.
The entire vehicle should first be
weighed on a commercial scale to
insure that the GVWR has not been
exceeded. The weight on the front and
rear of the vehicle should then be
determined separately to be sure that
the load is properly distributed over the
front and rear axle. Weighing the vehicle
may show that the GAWR of either the
front or rear axles has been exceeded
but the total load is within the specified
GVWR. If so, weight must be shifted
from front to rear or rear to front as
appropriate until the specified weight
limitations are met. Store the heavier
items down low and be sure that the
weight is distributed equally. Stow all
loose items securely before driving.
Improper weight distributions can have
an adverse effect on the way your
vehicle steers and handles and the way
the brakes operate.
Caution!
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than
the GVWR or the maximum front and rear
GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can
break, or it can change the way your
vehicle handles. This could cause you to
lose control. Also overloading can shorten
the life of your vehicle.
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STARTING AND OPERATING
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