Blue Bird M380 2003, Owner'S Manual

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Introduction
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M380 Owner’s Manual
Rev. “F” Introduction-8
GVWR
(Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) means the maximum permissible weight of this motor home. The
GVWR is equal to or greater than the sum of the Unloaded Vehicle Weight plus the Net Carrying
Capacity.
UVW
(Unloaded Vehicle Weight) means the weight of this motor home as built at the factory with full
fuel, engine oil, and coolants. The UVW does not include cargo, fresh water, LP gas, occupants,
or dealer installed accessories.
NCC
(Net Carrying Capacity) means the maximum weight of all occupants including the driver,
personal belongings, food, fresh water, LP gas, tools, tongue weight of towed vehicle, dealer
installed accessories, etc., that can be carried by this motor home.
(NCC is equal to or less than GVWR minus UVW).
GCWR
(Gross Combination Weight Rating) means the value specified by the motor home manufacturer
as the maximum allowable loaded weight of this motor home with its towed trailer or towed
vehicle.
This motor home is capable of carrying up to 98 gallons of fresh water (including water heater) for
a total of 816 pounds. Reference: Weight of fresh water is 8.33 lbs./gal.; Weight of LP gas is 4.5
lbs./gal. (average).
CONSULT WEIGHT DECAL LOCATED IN MOTOR HOME
FOR ACTUAL WEIGHTS
Vehicle Loading
The Federal Certification Label, located inside and above the driver’s windshield between the sun
visor mounting brackets describes the maximum weight-carrying capacities of your motor home
and for each axle, respectively abbreviated by “GVWR” and “GAWR”.
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum motor home weight allowable with all
systems filled and with passengers and supplies aboard.
Each axle also has a maximum load-bearing capacity referred to as the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR).
The load capacity is the difference between the GVWR and the actual weight. This means that
the total weight of all food, clothing, other supplies and passengers must not permit the load
capacity to be exceeded.
To find the actual weight, with the motor home fully loaded, drive to a scale and read the weight
on the front and rear wheels separately to determine axle loading. The load on each axle should
not exceed its GAWR. If weight ratings are exceeded, move or remove items to bring all weights
below the ratings.
When loading your motor home, store heavy gear first. Be sure to keep heavy gear on or as close
to the floor as possible. Heavy items should be stored centrally to distribute the weight evenly
between the front and the rear axles. Store only light objects on high shelves. Distribute weight to
obtain even side-to-side balance of the loaded unit. Secure loose items to prevent weight shifts
that could adversely affect the balance and road ability of the vehicle.