Dodge grand caravan 2011 Owner's Manual page 310

JOBNAME: cims CHRY OM French PAGE: 310 SESS: 4 OUTPUT: Tue Nov 2 10:27:14 2010 SUM: 3D912647
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STARTING AND OPERATING
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for
your vehicle, for all loading conditions up
to full GAWR.
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as
the total weight of the vehicle with all
fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full capac-
ity conditions, and with no occupants or
cargo loaded into the vehicle. The front
and rear curb weight values are deter-
mined by weighing your vehicle on a
commercial scale before any occupants
or cargo are added.
Overloading
The load carrying components (axle,
springs, tires, wheels, etc.) of your vehicle
will provide satisfactory service as long as
you do not exceed the GVWR and front
and rear GAWR.
310
The best way to figure out the total weight
of your vehicle is to weigh it when it is fully
loaded and ready for operation. Weigh it
on a commercial scale to ensure that it is
not over the GVWR.
Figure out the weight on the front and rear
of the vehicle separately. It is important
that you distribute the load evenly over the
front and rear axles.
Overloading can cause potential safety
hazards and shorten useful service life.
Heavier axles or suspension components
do not necessarily increase the vehicle's
GVWR.
Loading
To load your vehicle properly, first figure
out its empty weight, axle-by-axle and
side-by-side. Store heavier items down
low and be sure you distribute their weight
as evenly as possible. Stow all loose items
securely before driving. If weighing the
loaded vehicle shows that you have ex-
ceeded either GAWR, but the total load is
within the specified GVWR, you must re-
distribute the weight. Improper weight dis-
tribution can have an adverse effect on the
way your vehicle steers and handles, and
the way the brakes operate.
CAUTION!
Do not load your vehicle any heavier
than the GVWR or the maximum front
and rear GAWR. If you do, parts on
your vehicle can break, or it can
change the way your
handles. This could cause you to
lose control. Also, overloading can
shorten the life of your vehicle.
vehicle