1996 Ford Windstar Owner's Manual - Page 252

Vehicle Loading Information Your vehicle's load capacity is designated by weight, not volume, so you cannot necessarily use all the available space. Maximum safe vehicle weights as well as tire sizes, rim sizes and inflation pressures are specified for your vehicle at the assembly plant on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. The certification label is located on the pillar in the driver's door opening. Each additional item of equipment affects how much cargo a vehicle can carry. If a vehicle is overloaded, performance will suffer and service concerns may arise. NOTE: The vehicle must not be loaded to both the front and rear GAWR because the GVWR will be exceeded. The GAWR of the front and rear axles exceed the GVWR when added together. Understanding Loading Information There are five terms that are used to describe a vehicle's ability to carry a load: s Base Curb Weight s Payload s GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) s GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) s GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) Base Curb Weight The base curb weight is the weight of the vehicle including fuel, coolants, lubricants, emergency tools and spare wheel and tire. It also includes any equipment that is standard. It does not include passengers, cargo or optional equipment installed by factory, dealer, aftermarket supplier or customer. 250