53
OPERATION
Hauling Cargo
WARNING
Hauling cargo improperly can alter vehicle handling and may cause loss of
control or brake instability and result in serious injury or death. Always follow
these precautions when hauling cargo:
REDUCE SPEED AND ALLOW GREATER DISTANCES FOR BRAKING
WHEN HAULING CARGO.
CARGO WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION should be 1/3 on the front rack and 2/3 on
the rear rack. When operating over rough or hilly terrain, reduce speed and
cargo to maintain stable driving conditions. Carrying loads on only one rack
increases the possibility of vehicle overturn.
CARRY LOADS AS LOW ON THE RACKS AS POSSIBLE. Carrying loads
high on the racks raises the center of gravity of the vehicle and creates a less
stable operating condition.
SECURE ALL LOADS BEFORE OPERATING. Unsecured loads can create
unstable operating conditions, which could result in loss of control of the vehi-
cle.
OPERATE ONLY WITH STABLE AND SAFELY ARRANGED LOADS. When
handling off-centered loads that cannot be centered, securely fasten the load
and operate with extra caution. Always attach the tow load to the hitch point
designated for your vehicle.
HEAVY LOADS CAN CAUSE BRAKING AND CONTROL PROBLEMS. Use
extreme caution when applying brakes with a loaded vehicle. Avoid terrain or
situations that may require backing downhill.
USE EXTREME CAUTION when operating with loads that extend over the
rack sides. Stability and maneuverability may be adversely affected, causing
the vehicle to overturn.
DO NOT BLOCK THE FRONT HEADLIGHT BEAM when carrying loads on
the front rack.
DO NOT TRAVEL FASTER THAN THE RECOMMENDED SPEEDS. Vehicle
should never exceed 10 mph (16 kph) while towing a load on a level surface.
Vehicle speed should never exceed 5 mph (8 kph) when towing loads in
rough terrain, while cornering, or while ascending or descending a hill.