2008 Ford Edge Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 219

Tires, Wheels and Loading SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS Snow tires must be the same size, load index, speed rating as those originally provided by Ford. Use of any tire or wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the safety and performance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. Additionally, the use of non-recommended tires and wheels could cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unit failure. The tires on your vehicle have all weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow tires and chains. If you need to use chains, it is recommended that only cable chains are used with steel wheels (of the same size and specifications) as chains may chip aluminum wheels. Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and cable chains: • Install cable chains only on the front wheels. • Use only cable chains on 17 inch wheels with P235/65R17 tires. • Do not use tire chains, cables or optional traction devices with 18 inch and 20 inch wheels and tires. • Drive cautiously. If you hear the cable chains rub or bang against your vehicle, stop and re-tighten the cable chains. If this does not work, remove the cable chains to prevent damage to your vehicle. • If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle. • Remove the tire cable chains when they are no longer needed. Do not use tire cable chains on dry roads. • The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using snow tires and cable chains. VEHICLE LOADING - WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating capability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining your vehicle's weight ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle's Tire Label or Safety Compliance Certification Label: Base Curb Weight - is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or optional equipment. 219 2008 Edge (edg) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA (fus)