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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. Refer to “Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certifica-
tion Label” in “Starting and Operating” for further
information.
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 a collision.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The tongue weight is 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.
Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the
maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The trailer sway control is a telescoping link that can be
installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue
that typically provides adjustable friction associated with
the telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer
swaying motions while traveling.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue
weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or
some other connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds
of hitches are the most popular on the market today and
they are commonly used to tow small- and medium-
sized trailers.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 425
Page 434 of 566

on replacement tires and for the proper tire replace-
ment procedures. Replacing tires with a higher load
carrying capacity will not increase the vehicle’s GVWR
and GAWR limits.
Towing Requirements – Trailer Brakes
Donot interconnect the hydraulic brake system or
vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer.
This could cause inadequate braking and possible
personal injury.
An 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.
Trailer 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.
WARNING!
•Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle’s
hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your brake
system and cause it to fail. You might not have
brakes when you need them and could have an
collision.
(Continued)
432 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 561 of 566

Supplemental Restraint System - Airbag........ 57
Sway Control, Trailer ..................... 425
Synthetic Engine Oil ...................... 469
System, Remote Starting .................... 25
Tachometer ............................ 275
Telescoping Steering Column .............202,203
Temperature Control, Automatic (ATC) ........ 338
Temperature Gauge, Engine Coolant .......283,439
Tether Anchor, Child Restraint ............... 77
Theft Alarm (Security Alarm) ................ 17
Theft System (Security Alarm) ............... 17
Tilt Steering Column ................... 202,203
Time Delay, Headlight .................... 191
Tire and Loading Information Placard ......... 384
Tire Identification Number (TIN) ............. 382
Tire Markings .......................... 379
Tire Safety Information .................... 379 Tires ............................
88,388,539
Aging (Life of Tires) .................. 395
Air Pressure ........................ 388
Chains ............................ 397
Changing ....................... 439,443
Compact Spare ...................... 392
Flat Changing ....................... 439
General Information .................. 388
High Speed ......................... 391
Inflation Pressures .................... 389
Jacking ......................... 442,443
Life of Tires ........................ 395
Load Capacity .................... 384,385
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) ......... 400
Pressure Warning Light ................ 277
Quality Grading ..................... 539
Radial ............................ 391
Replacement ........................ 396
Rotation ........................... 399
10
INDEX 559