VEHICLE LOADING
As required by National Highway Traffic Safety Admin- istration regulations, your vehicle has a certification label affixed to the driver’s side door or B-Pillar.
Vehicle Certification Label
Your vehicle has a Vehicle Certification Label attached to the driver’s door B-Pillar. The label contains the following information: • Name of manufacturer • Month and year of manufacture • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) • Type of Vehicle • Month, Day and Hour of Manufacture (MDH) The bar code allows a computer scanner to read the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle. This includes driver, passengers, and cargo. The total load must be limited so that you do not exceed the 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.
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.
Overloading
The load carrying components (springs, tires, wheels, etc.) of your vehicle will provide satisfactory service as long as you do not exceed the GVWR. The best way to figure out the total weight of your vehicle is to weigh it when it is fully loaded and ready for operation. Weigh it on a commercial scale to ensure that it is not over the GVWR.
Overloading can cause potential safety hazards and shorten useful service life. Heavier suspension compo- nents do not necessarily increase the vehicle’s GVWR.
Loading
To load your vehicle properly, first figure out its empty weight. Store heavier items down low and be sure you distribute their weight as evenly as possible. Stow all loose items securely before driving. Improper weight distribution 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. 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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