2005 Mercury Mariner Owner's Manual - Page 164

Tires, Wheels and Loading Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and traction devices: • SAE class "S" cables should be used only on front axle for P235/70R16 tires. • Do not use tire chains with size P235/65R17 tires. Use of SAE Class "S" chains, cables or other chain types may damage you vehicle. • Install cables or chains securely, verifying that the cables or chains do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines. • Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables or chains rub or bang against the vehicle, stop and retighten them. If this does not work, remove the cables or chains to prevent vehicle damage. • Avoid overloading your vehicle. • Remove the cables or chains when they are no longer needed. • Do not use cables or chains on dry roads. • Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables or chains on your vehicle. Consult your dealer for information on other Ford approved methods of traction control. 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 Safety Certification Label and Tire 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. Vehicle Curb Weight - is the weight of your new vehicle when you picked it up from your dealer plus any aftermarket equipment. 164 2005 Mercury Mariner (mrn) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA_English (fus)