1998 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 220

Driving RWARNING It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly. 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. Payload Maximum payload is the combined, maximum allowable weight of cargo, occupants and optional equipment that the vehicle is designed to carry. It is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating minus the base curb weight. 221