1997 Lincoln Continental Owner's Manual - Page 185

The gearshift will lock when you turn the key to the LOCK position. When the gearshift is in any position except P (Park), the ignition key cannot be turned to the LOCK position or removed from the steering column. To remove the key, the gearshift lever must be in P (Park). WARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. You can find your vehicle's GVWR and GAWR on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the left front door lock facing or on the door latch post pillar. The weight limits of your vehicle's tires affect the GVWR or GAWR limitations. Usage of replacement tires with higher weight limits than originals does not increase GVWR or GAWR. Usage of lower capacity replacement tires may lower GVWR and GAWR limitations. WARNING Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. Driving With a Heavy Load There are limits to the amount of weight your vehicle can carry or tow. The total weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and cargo, should never be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that your vehicle carries over the front axle and rear axle should never be more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle. 183