2004 Ford F150 Driving Your SUV or Truck 2nd Printing (Spanish) - Page 40

Loading Your Vehicle Loading Your Vehicle LOADING YOUR VEHICLE Passenger and cargo load limits The combined weight of all occupants and all cargo (including added accessories) must not exceed the maximum payload for your vehicle. The maximum payload for your vehicle can be found on the tire label on the driver's door or door pillar. Look for statement "THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS AND CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED XXX KG OR XXX LBS" to determine your vehicle's maximum payload. The appropriate loading capacity of your vehicle can be limited either by volume capacity (how much space is available) or by payload capacity (how much weight the vehicle should carry). Once you have reached the maximum payload of your vehicle, do not add more cargo, even if there is space available. Overloading or improperly loading your vehicle can contribute to loss of vehicle control and vehicle rollover. In addition to maximum payload, additional loading terms and weight ratings are very important, particularly when towing a trailer or when a heavy accessory such as a snowplow has been added to the vehicle. Other terms related to loading include base curb weight, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross axle weight rating (GAWR), gross combined weight rating (GCWR). Refer to your "Owner's Guide" for additional information regarding these terms and maximum safe weight limits. Effects of improperly loading or overloading your vehicle Improper weight distribution and exceeding the maximum payload can have serious consequences in terms of passenger safety, including damage to the suspension system, springs, and shock absorbers, reduced braking capability, handling or steering problems, irregular tire wear, tire failure or other damage. Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity, may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Do not overload your vehicle and use extra precautions, such as driving at slower speeds, avoiding abrupt steering changes and allowing for increased stopping distance, when driving a heavily loaded vehicle. Over loading or loading the vehicle improperly can deteriorate handling capability and contribute to loss of vehicle control and vehicle rollover. 16