1995 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 171

The Certificationmire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads on your frontand rear axles, you need to go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. Be sure of to spread out your load equally on both sidesthe centerline. Similar appearingvehicles may have differentGVWR's/Payloads. Please note the Certificationmire label of your truck or consultyour dealer for additional details. Never exceed the GVWR for yourvehicle, or the Gross AxleWeight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. A CAUTION: In the case of a sudden stop or collision, things carried in the bed of your truckcould shift €orward and come into the passenger f area, injuringyou and others. I you put things in thebed of your truck, you should make sure they are properly secured. A CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either GAWR. If you do,parts onyour the maximum front or rear vehicle can break,or it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control.Also, overloading can shorten thelife of your vehicle. Using heavier suspension componentsto get added durability might not change your weight ratings. Ask your dealer to help you load your vehicle the right way. NOTICE: Your warranty does not cover parts orcomponents that fail because of overloading. If you put things inside yourvehicle - like suitcases,tools, packages, or anything else- they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they'llkeep going. 4-37