Towing - Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Operator's Manual

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Make sure that the automatic transmission
is set to position P.
X
Engage the vehicle's parking brake.
X
Close the rear doors.
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Couple the trailer.
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Establish all electrical connections.
Trailer coupled ready for use
Towing a trailer
There are numerous legal requirements
concerning the towing of a trailer, e.g. speed
restrictions. Make sure that your vehicle/
trailer combination complies with the local
requirements not only in your area of
residence but also at any location to which
you are traveling. The police and local
authorities can provide reliable information.
Please observe the following when towing a
trailer:
To acquaint yourself with driving with a
R
trailer and with the resulting changes to
handling, you should practice cornering,
stopping and reversing in a traffic-free
location.
Before driving, check:
R
trailer coupling
-
safety switch for braked trailers
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safety chains
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electrical connection
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lights
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wheels
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Transporting loads with the vehicle
Adjust the exterior mirrors to provide an
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unobstructed view of the rear section of the
trailer.
If the trailer has electronically controlled
R
brakes, pull away slowly, brake manually
using the brake controller and check that
the brakes are functional.
Secure any objects on the trailer to prevent
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the cargo from slipping when the vehicle is
in motion.
If you couple up a trailer, regularly check
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that the cargo is secure and make sure that
the trailer lamps and (if applicable) the
trailer brakes are functioning correctly.
Bear in mind that the handling will be less
R
stable when towing a trailer than when
driving without one. Avoid sudden steering
movements.
The vehicle/trailer combination is heavier,
R
accelerates more slowly and has a
decreased gradient climbing capability and
a longer braking distance.
It is more susceptible to crosswinds and
requires cautious steering.
If possible, do not brake abruptly; apply the
R
brakes moderately to begin with to allow
the trailer to activate its brakes. Then
increase the pressure on the brake pedal.
If the automatic transmission repeatedly
R
shifts between gears when driving on
inclines, restrict the shift range. Select shift
range 4, 3, 2 or 1.
Driving in a low gear and at a low speed
reduces the risk of damaging the engine.
When driving on a downhill gradient, shift
R
to a low gear and take advantage of the
engine's braking effect.
Avoid continuous brake application as this
may overheat the vehicle brakes and, if
installed, the trailer brakes.
If the coolant temperature increases
R
dramatically while the air-conditioning
system is switched on, switch off the air-
conditioning system.
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