1997 Honda Odyssey Owner's Manual - Page 116

Loading Cargo The maximum load you can carry in your Honda is 1,150 Ibs (535 kg). It includes the total weight of all passengers and their belongings, any accessories, and the tongue weight of a trailer. This 1,150 Ibs (535 kg) figure is shown as the Vehicle Capacity Weight on the tire information label attached to the driver's doorjamb. To figure out how much cargo you can cany: Figure the total "occupant weight" you will be transporting. To do this, multiply the number of people (driver and all passengers) by 150 Ibs (70 kg). Subtract this number from the Vehicle Capacity Weight (1,150 lbs/535 kg). If you are towing a trailer, subtract the tongue weight. See Towing a Trailer on page 130 . This final number is the total weight of cargo you can load in or on the car. With seven occupants (driver and six passengers), the maximum recommended weight for cargo is 100 Ibs (45 kg). Where you store this cargo, and how well you secure it, are just as important as how much it weighs. Make sure you load cargo so it will Before Driving not shift while driving. Items stored in the cargo area behind the third seat should be stored as far forward as possible. You could store additional items on the floor behind the front seats. Make sure they cannot roll under the front seat and interfere with the pedals. For greater cargo capacity, the third seat can be folded into the floor and the second row seats can either be removed or folded up (depending on model). Passengers should never sit in the open cargo area while the car is moving. They should sit in one of the seats and wear their seat belts. If you must carry large objects that prevent you from closing the tailgate, be aware that exhaust gas can enter the interior. See Carbon Monoxide Hazard on page 29 .