Mercedes-Benz SL 320 Operator's Manual page 17

Caution!
When driving down long and steep
grades, relieve the load on the brakes
by shifting into "3", "2" or "1" (for
models SL 500 and SL 600). This helps
prevent overheating of the brakes and
reduces brake pad wear.
After hard braking, it is advisable to
drive on for some time, rather than
immediately parking, so the air
stream will cool down the brakes
faster.
Tires
Tread wear indicators (TWI) are
required by law. These indicators are
located in six places on the tread
circumference and become visible at a
1
depth of approximately /
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at which point the tire is considered
worn and should be replaced.
The tread wear indicator appears as a
solid band across the tread.
Warning!
Do not allow your tires to wear
down too far. With less than
(1.5 mm) of tread, the adhesion
in (2 mm), properties on a wet road are sharply
reduced.
Depending upon the weather and/or
road surface (conditions), the tire
traction varies widely.
Specified tire pressures must be
maintained. This applies particularly if
the tires are subjected to high loads
(e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high
ambient temperatures).
Warning!
Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat
tire affects the ability to steer or
brake the vehicle. You may lose
control of the car. Continued driving
with a flat tire or driving at high
speed with a flat tire will cause
excessive heat build-up and possibly
a fire.
Aquaplaning
1
/ in Depending on the depth of the water
16
layer on the road, aquaplaning may
occur, even at low speeds and with
new tires. Avoid track grooves in the
road and apply brakes cautiously in the
rain.
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