Page 311 of 440

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The gross trailer weight (GTW) is the weight of the trailer
plus the weight of all cargo, consumables and equipment
(permanent or temporary) loaded in or on the trailer in its
9loaded and ready for operation9condition. The recom-
mended way to measure GTW is to put your fully loaded
trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the trailer
must be supported by the scale.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is the total
permissible weight of your vehicle and trailer when
weighed in combination. (Note that GCWR ratings in-
clude a 68 kg (150 lbs) allowance for the presence of a
driver).
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear
axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles
evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or
rear GAWR.
WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the maximum
front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition
can result if either rating is exceeded. You could lose
control of the vehicle and have an accident.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the
trailer. In most cases it should not be less than 10% or
more than 15% of the trailer load. You must consider this
as part of the load on your vehicle.
310 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 319 of 440

þWhen replacing tires refer to the Tires±General Infor-
mation section of this manual on Replacement Tires for
proper tire replacement procedures. Replacing tires
with a higher load carrying capacity will not increase
the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.
Towing Requirements Ð Trailer Brakes
þ
Donotinterconnect the hydraulic brake system or
vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer.
This could cause inadequate braking and possible
personal injury.
þAn electronically actuated trailer brake controller is
required when towing a trailer with electronically
actuated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with
a hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic
brake controller is not required.
þTrailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000
lbs (454 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000
lbs (907 kg).
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (454 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they
should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this
could lead to accelerated brake lining wear, higher
brake pedal effort, and longer stopping distances.
318 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 437 of 440

Tire and Loading Information Placard......... 281
Tire Identification Number (TIN)............. 280
Tire Markings.......................... 277
Tire Safety Information.................... 277
Tires ............................71,285,417
Aging (Life of Tires).................... 292
Air Pressure.......................... 285
Alignment........................... 294
Chains.............................. 301
Changing............................ 326
Compact Spare........................ 289
Flat Changing........................ 330
General Information.................... 285
High Speed.......................... 288
Inflation Pressures..................... 286
Jacking............................. 326
Life of Tires.......................... 292
Load Capacity.....................281,282
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)........... 294Quality Grading....................... 417
Radial.............................. 289
Replacement......................... 292
Rotation............................. 302
Safety...........................277,285
Sizes............................... 278
Snow Tires........................... 302
Spare Tire........................... 327
Spinning............................ 291
Tread Wear Indicators................... 291
Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight.............. 314
Towing............................... 309
Disabled Vehicle....................... 336
Guide.............................. 313
Recreational.......................... 322
Weight.............................. 313
Traction.............................. 334
Trailer Towing.......................... 309
Cooling System Tips.................... 321
436 INDEX