Start–Up Operating Instructions
– 12 – Y53-6008
Medium Duty (R10/06)
WARNING! Do not drink and drive. Your reflexes,
perceptions, and judgment can be affected by
even a small amount of alcohol. You could have
a serious—even fatal—accident if you drive after
drinking. Please do not drink and drive or ride
with a driver who’s been drinking.
•The use of alcohol, drugs, and certain medica-
tions will seriously impair perception, reactions,
and driving ability. These circumstances can
substantially increase the risk of an accident
and serious personal injury.
Vehicle Loading
Compare your vehicle's load capacity with the total load you
are carrying. If adjustments need to be made, make them—
do not drive an overloaded vehicle. If you are overloaded or
your load has shifted, your vehicle may be unsafe to drive.
WARNING! Do not exceed the specified load rat-
ing. Overloading can result in loss of vehicle
control and serious personal injury, either by
causing component failures or by affecting vehi-
cle handling. Exceeding load ratings can also
shorten the service life of the vehicle.
•The components of your vehicle are designed
to provide satisfactory service if the vehicle is
not loaded in excess of either the gross vehicle
weight rating (GVWR), or the maximum front and
rear gross axle weight ratings (GAWRs). (Axle
weight ratings are listed on the driver's door
edge.)
Here are some definitions of weight you should know:
GVWR:
is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. This is the
MAXIMUM WEIGHT your vehicle is allowed to carry, includ-
ing the weight of the empty vehicle, loading platform, occu-
pants, fuel, and any load. Never exceed the GVWR of your
vehicle.
GCW:
is the actual combined weight, or Gross Combination
Weight (GCW), of your vehicle and its load: tractor, plus
trailer(s), plus cargo.
