Driving On Sand; Ruts - Mercedes-Benz 2009 GL320 BlueTEC Operator's Manual

Operation
Driving instructions
possible use the assistance of a second
person outside the vehicle to scout the
path you intend to take and check for
adequate ground clearance when you cross
obstacles with your vehicle. The person
assisting you outside the vehicle should
always be a safe distance away from the
vehicle and positioned so that he or she
cannot get hurt in case of any unexpected
vehicle movement.
After off-road driving or crossing obstacles,
inspect vehicle for any damage, especially
vehicle underbody and suspension
components. Failure to do so can adversely
affect the vehicle's future performance,
including increased chance of an accident.
When driving over tree stumps, big rocks and
other obstacles, observe the following rules:
Make sure the off-road driving program
R
( Y page 185) or if equipped the
LOW RANGE mode ( Y page 142) is
switched on.
Avoid high engine speeds.
R
Shift automatic transmission into gear
R
range 1 ( Y page 139).
308
Check the vehicle clearance before
R
crossing obstacles.
Cross obstacles (e. g. tree stumps or big
R
rocks) very slowly by aiming one of the front
wheels at the center of the obstacle, and
repeat same with the rear wheel.
! Special attention is needed when you
cross obstacles on a steep incline.
The vehicle could slide sideways as a result
of its possible slanted position which in turn
may result in the vehicle tipping or rolling
over.

Driving on sand

G Warning!
Do not reduce the tire inflation pressure
before driving through sand. However, if
you do so, remember to correct the tire
inflation pressure before continuing your
trip. Driving with reduced tire inflation
pressure increases the risk of losing control
of the vehicle and rolling over.
When driving on sand, observe the following
rules:
Set the raised level ( Y page 186).
R
Avoid high engine speeds.
R
Shift automatic transmission into a gear
R
range that is appropriate for the terrain.
In sandy soil, drive at a steady speed as
R
conditions permit. This helps overcome the
vehicle rolling resistance and reduce the
likelihood of the vehicle sinking into the
ground.
Drive in tracks of other vehicles if they are
R
not too deep and you have sufficient
clearance.

Ruts

A number of off-road tracks or other byways
have deep ruts which can cause the
underbody to come in contact with the
ground.
Make sure the off-road driving program
R
Y
( page 185) or, if equipped, the
LOW RANGE mode ( Y page 142) is
switched on.
Set the raised level ( Y page 186).
R