suspension FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual

190
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[GF28750(R)03/96]
Vehicle/Trailer Loads
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[GF28801(R)03/96]
All vehicles may tow a Class I trailer provided the Gross
Combined Weight (GCW) is less than or equal to the GVWR
shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. For heavier
trailer applications, refer to the towing information found later
in this chapter.
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[GF28950(R)05/96]
Trailer Towing
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[GF29001(R)01/96]
Towing a trailer puts additional loads on your vehicle's engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety
and for the good of your vehicle, use the right equipment for
the type of trailer you tow.
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[GF29025(R)01/96]
Your trailer towing capability will vary based on the standard
and optional equipment on your vehicle. Refer to the following
Vehicle Loading/Towing Informationand the Trailer Towing Tables
to determine the specific towing capability of your vehicle.
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[GF29050(R)01/96]
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Stay within the load limits when you tow.
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[GF29101(R)05/96]
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Carefully and thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing,
making sure to use the right equipment and to attach it
properly. (SeePreparing to Towin this chapter.)
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[GF29151(R)05/96]
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Use extra caution when driving your vehicle while you tow.
(SeeDriving while you towin this chapter.)
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[GF29201(R)05/96]
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Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer.
(SeeServicing your vehicle if you towin this chapter.)
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[GF29350(R)01/96]
Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least
500 miles (800 km).
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Update:Thu Mar 20 08:55:24 1997

194
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[GF30650(R)01/96]
It is important to remember that GVWis not a limit or a
specification.If an owner loads up a vehicle and weighs it, that's
the GVW at that moment. If the owner piles on more of a load
and weighs it again, that becomes the GVW.
%*
[GF30701(R)01/96]
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
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[GF30750(R)01/96]
To avoid overloading a vehicle, the owner should observe the
manufacturer's specified Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. The
GVWR is the maximum total weight of base vehicle, passengers,
optional components and cargo that a particular vehicle was
designed to carry.
%*
[GF30801(R)01/96]
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
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[GF30850(R)01/96]
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.
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[GF30901(R)01/96]
Your Safety Compliance Certification Label not only gives the
GVWR, it also gives the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
which is the carrying capacity for each axle system. For trucks,
the rear axle will be designed to carry more weight than the
front.
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[GF30950(R)01/96]
The rating is based on the carrying capacity of thelowest rated
axle and suspension component as well as other factors. This is
why it's so important to observe vehicle loading ratings.
Overloading a vehicle punishes components and can lead to
shortened service life or outright failure.
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[GF31001(R)01/96]
The capacity of the tires is included as part of the axle and
suspension system, which is to be considered when determining
the lowest rated component. Tires are rated to carry a specific
maximum load at a specific maximum tire pressure.
File:09ungfr.ex
Update:Thu Mar 20 08:55:24 1997

Maintenance and Care
287
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[MC31600(R)01/96]
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Put the chains on tightly with the ends held down securely.
Verify that no chain touches any wiring, brake lines, or fuel
lines. Follow the chain manufacturer's instructions.
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[MC31700(R)01/96]
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Drive slowly. If you can hear the chains rub or bang against
your vehicle, stop the vehicle and tighten the chains. If you
continue to hear the chains rub or bang against your vehicle,
remove the chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.
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[MC31800(R)01/96]
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Avoid fully loading your vehicle if possible.
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[MC31850(R)01/96]
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Tire chains may affect vehicle handling. Drive carefully and
avoid hard braking.
[MC31900(R)01/96]
Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them on
snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads.
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[MC31950(R)01/96]
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Make sure your suspension insulation and bumpers are not
missing or worn to avoid damage to your vehicle.
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[MC31960(R)03/96]
Cleaning the Wheels
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[MC31970(R)03/96]
Wash the wheels with the same detergent you use to wash your
vehicle's body. Do not use acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool,
abrasives, fuel, or strong detergents. These substances will
damage protective coatings. Use tar and road oil remover to
remove grease and tar.
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[MC31975(R)03/96]
NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if the brushes are
abrasive.
[MC31980(R)01/96]
If you have raised white letter tires that are difficult to clean
with regular detergent, use whitewall tire cleaner. Follow the
directions on the container and rinse the tires with plenty of
clean water.
File:11unmcr.ex
Update:Thu Mar 20 08:58:43 1997