Payload/Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Information
No: TSB-00-00-016DATE: November, 2000
MODEL: All models
SUBJECT:
VEHICLE PAYLOAD CARRYING CAPACITY
PURPOSE
The payload carrying capacity of a vehicle is determined by the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) minus the curb weight.
The vehicle's curb weight is the weight of the vehicle itself with a full tank of fuel, without any occupants or cargo. This specification is shown in Group 00 of the service manuals.
The vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the total weight of the vehicle, plus any add-on accessories (such as trailer hitch, etc.), occupants, fuel, and cargo. The GVWR is printed in the vehicle owners manual and on the Vehicle Safety Certification Label.
The Vehicle Safety Certification Label. located on the driver side "B" pillar, also lists the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To determine the actual loads on the front and rear axles, the vehicle must be weighed. Commercial-grade scales are found at places such as truck stops, gravel quarries, grain elevators, and scrap metal recycling facilities.
Customers should observe the following guidelines:
* Do not carry cargo or occupants that would cause the vehicle weight to exceed the GVWR or GAWR. Overloading can damage suspension parts and impair vehicle handling.
* When loading the vehicle, distribute the cargo weight evenly. If either the front or rear GAWR is exceeded, shift the load or remove cargo as necessary.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
All Mitsubishi models