Towing Equipment - Opel Automobile Owner's Manual

154 Driving and operating
level. Since engine power decreases
as altitude increases due to the air
becoming thinner, therefore reducing
climbing ability, the permissible gross
train weight also decreases by 10 %
for every 1000 metres of additional
altitude. The gross train weight does
not have to be reduced when driving
on roads with slight inclines (less than
8 %, e. g. motorways).
The permissible gross train weight
must not be exceeded. This weight is
specified on the identification plate
3 216.
Vertical coupling load
The vertical coupling load is the load
exerted by the trailer on the coupling
ball. It can be varied by changing the
weight distribution when loading the
trailer.
The maximum permissible vertical
coupling load (75 kg) is specified on
the towing equipment identification
plate and in the vehicle documents.
Always aim for the maximum load,
especially in the case of heavy
trailers. The vertical coupling load
should never fall below 25 kg.
Rear axle load
When the trailer is coupled and the
towing vehicle fully loaded, the
permissible rear axle load (see
identification plate or vehicle
documents) may be exceeded by 90
kg and the gross vehicle weight rating
by 75 kg. If the permissible rear axle
load is exceeded, a maximum speed
of 100 km/h applies.

Towing equipment

Caution
When operating without a trailer,
remove the coupling ball bar.
Stowage of coupling ball bar
To open the cover, lift the carpeting.
Raise, rotate and lift the ring.