1997 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 235

Driving Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) To avoid overloading your vehicle, never exceed the specified Gross Vehicle Weight Rating for your vehicle. The GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle when fully loaded including passengers, cargo and all equipment. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) We have all seen a car or a truck that is loaded down in the rear and riding high in the front. This is a dangerous condition that usually means that the rear suspension components are under severe strain and that vehicle handling is impaired. There is more to carrying a load than just payload or GVWR. Your Safety Compliance Certification Label not only gives the GVWR, it also gives the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) which is the maximum weight allowed on the axle system. The rating is based on the carrying capacity of the weakest axle and suspension component as well as other factors. This is why it is so important to observe vehicle loading ratings. Overloading a vehicle punishes components and can lead to shortened service life or outright failure. The weakest link in the suspension system defines the GAWR, and may be the tires. Tires are rated to carry a specific maximum load at a specific tire pressure. When passenger car tires are installed on light trucks and multipurpose passenger vehicles, they are rated at a 10% lower load carrying capacity due to the differences in vehicle usages. With the tires inflated to the specified pressure, the total weight of your vehicle must not exceed the GVWR and GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. This includes full fuel tank(s), vehicle equipment, and occupants, as well as the cargo load. 235