1997 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 135
1997 Ford Explorer Manual
Page 135 highlights
Driving • GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) - Carrying capacity for each axle system (front and rear). The GAWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver door pillar. • GCW (Gross Combined Weight) - The GCW is the maximum combined weight of the towing vehicle (including passengers and cargo) and the loaded trailer. The GCW is specified by the manufacturer to indicate the combined maximum loaded weight that the vehicle is designed to tow. Payload = GVWR minus Base curb weight To obtain the correct weights for your vehicle, try taking your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks. Do not use replacement tires with lower weight capacities than the originals because they might lower the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR. (Replacement tires with a higher weight limit than the originals do not increase the GVWR or the GAWR limitations.) In high altitudes, engines will lose power at a rate of 3% power per 300 m (1000 ft) increase in elevation. A reduction in GVW and GCW is recommended for maximum vehicle performance. 136