2005 Ford Taurus Owner Guide 4th Printing - Page 149

Tires, Wheels and Loading tires and chains. If you need to use snow tires and chains, it is recommended that steel wheels are used of the same size and specifications as those originally installed. Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains: • Use only cable type chains offered by Ford as an accessory or equivalent. SAE class "S" or other conventional link type chains may cause damage to the vehicle's wheel house and/or body. • Install cable chains securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines. • Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against your vehicle, stop and re-tighten the cables. If this does not work, remove the cables to prevent damage to your vehicle. • If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle. • Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use tire cables on dry roads. • The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using snow tires and cables. • Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables on your vehicle. VEHICLE LOADING - WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating capability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining your vehicle's weight ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle's Safety Certification Label and Tire Label: Base Curb Weight - is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or optional equipment. Vehicle Curb Weight - is the weight of your new vehicle when you picked it up from your dealer plus any aftermarket equipment. 149 2005 Taurus (tau) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA (fus)