DRIVING & SAFETY — 2
38
20 08 CONTESSA
Torque the Nuts Properly:
Tighten the wheel nuts to the
recommended lug nut torque. DO NOT
over-tighten.
Maintain the nut torque at the
recommended level through planned
periodic checks or at 10,000 mile
intervals, whichever comes rst.
If air wrenches are used, they must be
periodically calibrated for the proper
torque output. Use a torque wrench to
check air wrench output and adjust line
pressure for the correct torque.
WEIGHING THE MOTORHOME
Proper weight distribution, load management
and operating within established limitations will
aid in safe and enjoyable travel. The information
in this section outlines guidelines and provides
worksheets for weighing procedures.
Proper weight distribution and load
management is an individual responsibility.
In order to correctly manage load and weight
distribution, more than one weight measurement
will be required. Each wheel position must be
weighed to accurately determine the weight
placed on each wheel position for proper
weight computations. The entire process of
weight management begins with the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating as listed on the Federal
Certication Label. This weight cannot be
exceeded.
CAUTION:
Most States limit the amount of weight
carried by any single axle position. It
is the responsibility of the operator to
know the legal weight limit of the State
in which they travel.
Weight Limits
Numerous Federal, State and local governments
mandate weight limits. Understanding the
terminology and performing proper weighing
procedure will help eliminate confusion. It is
important to weigh the motorhome to calculate
Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) and ensure no
axle is overloaded.
The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is
listed on the federal certication label attached
to the motorhome. This is the maximum
allowable loaded weight on a particular axle.
This label is generally located to the rear of the
driver’s seat, on the wall.
When the actual loaded weight of the
motorhome and the weight on each axle is
unknown, follow the recommended tire ination
pressure(s) listed on the federal certication
label. When loading a motorhome never exceed
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or
the GAWR for each axle.
NOTE:
Contact the tire manufacturer for
further information concerning
proper tire pressure inflation and
other tire issues.
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
listed on the Federal Certication Label
attached to the motorhome details the chassis
manufacturer’s and/or the RV manufacturer’s
total vehicle maximum weight rating and per
axle weight rating.
The GVWR is the maximum total weight
for which the motorhome is rated - including
passengers, uids and cargo. The GAWR is
the maximum weight for which a single axle is
designed. The tires, wheels, axle, motorhome
frame and/or other components of the
motorhome may limit these per axle and total
maximum weight ratings.
The Federal Certication Label displays the
maximum loaded axle weight rating GAWR and
the correct tire ination pressure for that weight.
Every recreational vehicle, even of the same
make and model, will vary in actual loaded
axle weights because of different options and
personal loads.
While the actual loaded axle weight should
be below the GAWR, the motorhome must be
weighed in a loaded condition to determine
actual weight. Separately weigh the front axle,
rear axle and tag axle, if equipped. It is possible
for a motorhome to be within the GVWR yet
overloaded on one axle. It is even possible
for one wheel position to be overloaded, even
though the GAWR is not exceeded. For this
reason it is necessary to weigh each wheel
position of the motorhome to give a clear
indication of exactly how the weight of the
motorhome is distributed.
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