2005 Ford Escape Owner Guide 3rd Printing (Spanish) - Page 498

Tires, Wheels and Loading Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and traction devices: • SAE class "S" cables should ONLY be used on the front axle for P235/70R16 tires. With P225/75R15 and P215/70R16 tires, SAE class "S" cables can be used on both the front and rear wheels. • Install cables or chains securely, verifying that the cables or chains do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines. • Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables or chains rub or bang against the vehicle, stop and retighten them. If this does not work, remove the cables or chains to prevent vehicle damage. • Avoid overloading your vehicle. • Remove the cables or chains when they are no longer needed. • Do not use cables or chains on dry roads. • Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables or chains on your vehicle. Consult your dealer for information on other Ford approved methods of traction control. VEHICLE LOADING - WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating capability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining your vehicle's weight ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle's Safety Certification Label and Tire Label: Base Curb Weight - is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or optional equipment. Vehicle Curb Weight - is the weight of your new vehicle when you picked it up from your dealer plus any aftermarket equipment. 172 2005 Escape (204) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA_English (fus)