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.
Loading
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.
SUGGESTIONS FOR DRIVING
Saving Fuel
Below are some suggestions which may
help you save fuel and lower the amount
of harmful emissions released into the
atmosphere.
Vehicle Maintenance
Checks and operations should be carried
out in accordance with the Maintenance
Plan. Refer to "Scheduled Servicing" in
"Servicing And Maintenance" for further
information.
Tires
Check the tire pressures at least once
every four weeks: if the pressure is too
low, consumption levels increase as
resistance to rolling is higher.
Note:
Tire pressure that is too high can
cause premature tire wear, reduced
control, etc.
Unnecessary Loads
Do not travel with an overloaded liftgate.
The weight of the vehicle and its
arrangement greatly affect fuel
consumption and stability.
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