Chevrolet 2003 Avalanche Owner's Manual page 315

The Certificationflire label also tells you the maximum
weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads
on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a
weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can Do not load your vehicle any heavier tl--.-. _.le
help you with this. Be sure to spread out your load GWVR, or either the maximum front or rear
equally on both sides of the centerline. GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR
for either the front or rear axle.
The Certificationflire label also contains information
about your Front Axle Reserve Capacity. See
Four- Wheel Drive
on
page 5-50.
And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread
it out.
In the case of a sudden stop or collision,
things carried in the bed of your truck could
shift forward and come into the passenger
area, injuring you and others. If you put things
in the bed of your truck, you should make sure
they are properly secured.
break, and it can change the way your vehicle
handles. These could cause you to lose
control and crash. Also, overloading can
shorten the life of your vehicle.
Your warranty does not cover parts or components that
fail because of overloading.
This will help you decide how much cargo and installed
equipment your truck can carry.
Using heavier suspension components to get added
durability might not change your weight ratings. Ask your
dealer to help you load your vehicle the right way.
If you put things inside your vehicle
-
like suitcases,
tools, packages, or anything else
-
they go as fast
as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly,
or if there is a crash, they'll keep going.
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