Load Distribution - Mercedes-Benz 2016 Metris Operator's Manual

Load distribution

234
In the event of an accident, have a damaged
cargo compartment floor or loading area, the
cargo tie-down rings and the tie down checked
at a specialist workshop. Otherwise, the load
may not be correctly secured the next time any-
thing is stowed.
Even if you follow all loading guidelines, the load
increases the risk of injury in the event of an
accident. Observe the information in the "Secur-
ing a load" ( page 235) and "Load distribution"
Y
( page 234) sections.
Y
You will find information about the maximum
roof load and maximum tailgate load in the
"Cargo tie-down points and carrier systems"
section ( page 305). You will find information
Y
about roof carriers under "Carrier systems"
( page 239).
Y
Before loading
!
The anti-slip mats cannot be used for secur-
ing goods and must be replaced when they
show signs of:
Permanent deformation and crushing
R
Crack formation
R
Cuts
R
Tire pressure: check the tire pressure and
X
correct if necessary (
Cargo compartment floor: clean the cargo
X
compartment floor.
The cargo compartment floor must be free
from oil and dust, dry and swept clean to pre-
vent the load from slipping.
Place non-slip mats (anti-slip mats) on the
X
cargo compartment floor if necessary.
During loading
Observe the gross axle weight rating and per-
X
missible gross vehicle weight for your vehicle.
Take into account that your vehicle's curb
weight is increased if accessories or optional
page 271).
Y
equipment are installed. The maximum pay-
load is thus reduced.
Observe the notes on load distribution
X
( page 234).
Y
The overall center of gravity of the load should
always be as low as possible, centered and
between the axles near the rear axle.
Observe the legal requirements of the country
X
in which you are currently driving.
Checks after loading
G
WARNING
Combustion engines emit poisonous exhaust
gases such as carbon monoxide. If the tail-
gate/rear door is open when the engine is
running, particularly if the vehicle is moving,
exhaust fumes could enter the passenger
compartment. There is a risk of poisoning.
Turn off the engine before opening the tail-
gate/rear door. Never drive off with the tail-
gate/rear door open.
Securing luggage/loads: make sure that
X
the luggage and/or load is secure before
every journey and at regular intervals during a
long journey, and correct it if necessary.
Doors/tailgate: close the sliding doors and
X
tailgate/door.
Tire pressure: adjust the tire pressure
X
according to the vehicle load (
Driving style: adapt your driving style
X
according to the vehicle load.
Load distribution
General notes
!
Excessive loads on individual points of the
cargo floor or on the load surface impair vehi-
cle handling characteristics and could cause
damage to the floor covering.
The overall center of gravity of the load should
always be as low as possible, centered and
between the axles near the rear axle.
page 271).
Y