2011 Dodge Nitro Owner Manual - Page 365
2011 Dodge Nitro Manual
Page 365 highlights
362 STARTING AND OPERATING Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) Tongue Weight The GCWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle The tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the and trailer when weighed in combination. hitch ball by the trailer. In most cases it should not be less than 10% or more than 15% of the trailer load. You must NOTE: The GCWR rating includes a 150 lbs (68 kg) consider this as part of the load on your vehicle. allowance for the presence of a driver. Frontal Area Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles maximum width of the front of a trailer. evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or rear GAWR. Refer to "Vehicle Loading/Vehicle Certification Label" in Starting and Operating" for further information. Trailer Sway Control The trailer sway control is a telescoping link that can be installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable friction associated with the telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer swaying motions while traveling. WARNING! It is important that you do not exceed the maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can result if either rating is exceeded. You could lose control of the vehicle and have a collision.