Fitting The Ball Coupling - Mercedes-Benz V-Class Series 2015 Operating Instructions Manual

Trailer towing
228
(see the manufacturer's operating instruc-
tions).
Vehicles with a detachable trailer coupling:
R
minimise the risk of damage to the ball cou-
pling. If you do not require the ball coupling,
remove it from the ball coupling recess.
i When towing a trailer, the permissible gross
vehicle weight is increased by 100 kg for vehi-
cles with passenger vehicle approval. The per-
missible gross vehicle weight must be
observed.
You can obtain information on the installation of
trailer electrics at any qualified specialist work-
shop. You will find fitting dimensions and loads
under "Technical data" (
The height of the ball coupling changes with the
load of the vehicle. If this is case, use a trailer
with a height-adjustable trailer drawbar.
Driving tips
When towing a trailer, your vehicle's handling
characteristics will be different in comparison to
when driving without a trailer and it will con-
sume more fuel.
On long and steep downhill gradients, select a
lower gear.
i This also applies if cruise control,
DISTRONIC PLUS or SPEEDTRONIC are acti-
vated.
You thereby make use of the braking effect of
the engine and do not have to brake as often to
maintain the speed. This relieves the load on the
brake system and prevents the brakes from
overheating and wearing too quickly. If you need
additional braking, depress the brake pedal
repeatedly rather than continuously.
Observe the notes on ESP
Y
( page 68).
Driving tips
If the trailer begins to swing from side to side:
X
Do not accelerate.
X
Do not counter-steer.
X
Brake if necessary.
Y
page 353).
®
trailer stabilisation
Maintain a greater distance than you would
R
when driving without towing a trailer.
Avoid sudden braking. Apply the brakes gen-
R
tly at first to allow the trailer brake to overrun.
Then, increase the brake force quickly.
The figures for the gradient climbing capabil-
R
ities from a standstill refer to sea level. When
driving in mountainous areas, note that the
power output of the engine, and with it its
gradient climbing capability, decrease with
increasing altitude.

Fitting the ball coupling

G
WARNING
If the ball coupling is not properly engaged, it
could come loose and endanger other road
users. There is a risk of an accident and injury.
Engage the ball coupling as described, making
sure that it is securely attached.
G
WARNING
If the ball coupling is not engaged, the trailer
could become detached. There is a risk of an
accident.
Always engage the ball coupling as described
and make sure that it is securely attached.
Before you can tow a trailer with your vehicle,
you must fit the ball coupling.
X
Make a note of the number of the key which
belongs to the trailer tow hitch.
You can use this number to obtain a replace-
ment key from a Mercedes-Benz Service
Centre.