Installing The Ball Coupling - Mercedes-Benz G-Class Operator's Manual

Towing a trailer
152
Driving tips
Maintain a greater distance from the vehicle
R
in front than when driving without a trailer.
Avoid braking abruptly. If possible, brake gen-
R
tly at first to allow the trailer to run on. Then,
increase the braking force rapidly.
The values given for gradient-climbing capa-
R
bilities from a standstill refer to sea level.
When driving in mountainous areas, note that
the power output of the engine and, conse-
quently, the vehicle's gradient-climbing capa-
bility, decreases with increasing altitude.
If the trailer swings from side to side:
Do not accelerate.
X
Do not counter-steer.
X
Brake if necessary.
X
Assembling the ball coupling
G
WARNING
The ball coupling can be damaged if the nut on
the ball coupling is tightened using the incor-
rect torque. As a result, the trailer may
detach. There is a risk of an accident.
Immediately after installing, have the tighten-
ing torque checked at a qualified specialist
workshop.
!
Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only
use ball couplings tested and approved for
use on Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This helps to
avoid damage to the vehicle.
Observe the manufacturer's installation
instructions if you use a ball coupling other
than the one supplied.
Slide ball coupling : through the hole in ball
X
coupling carrier bar ; to the stop.
Slide lock washer ? onto the thread of ball
X
coupling = to the stop.
Screw on nut A as far as it will go.
X
Using a torque wrench, tighten nut B with a
X
torque of 516 lb-ft(700 Nm).
Check that the length of overhanging thread
X
C beneath nut B is at least 0.32 in(8 mm).
Check that the assembled ball coupling has
X
been assembled correctly.
Also observe the height of the trailer coupling
and the trailer manufacturer's instructions.
Depending on the height of the trailer coupling,
it may be necessary to rotate the ball coupling
by 180° when assembling on the ball coupling
carrier bar. The assembly process is identical.

Installing the ball coupling

G
WARNING
If the ball coupling is not installed correctly or
not secured with the bolt provided and the
corresponding spring cotter, the trailer may
come loose. There is a risk of an accident.