Mercedes-Benz Metris Operator's Manual page 167

if available, use a load protection net to secure
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the load ( page 170).
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use tie-down eyes and fastening components
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which are suitable for the weight and size of
the load.
Observe the operating instructions of the manufac-
turer when using load securing aids or tie downs
and the notes on their expiration dates.
In the following cases, load securing aids or tie
downs are worn out, should not be used and must
be replaced:
there is missing or illegible identi cation
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there is cord breakage or damage to load-bear-
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ing seams or other traces of cracking
there are cuts, holes, deformations, crushed
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areas or other damage
there is damage to clamping elements or fas-
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teners
If the trunk oor or loading area are damaged in
the event of an accident, have the tie-down eyes
and the tie downs checked at a quali ed specialist
workshop.
Even if you adhere to all the loading guidelines, an
increased load increases the risk of injury in the
event of an accident.
Bef Befor ore loading e loading
* NO NOTE TE Damage to the vehicle and the load
due to anti-slip mats which are no longer
suitable
If you use anti-slip mats that display the follow-
ing characteristics, they must be replaced:
Permanent deformation and crushed areas
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Traces of cracking
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Cuts or holes
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Please observe the following before loading the
vehicle:
Clean the cargo oor, if necessary.
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The cargo oor must be free from oil and dust,
dry and swept clean to prevent the load from
slipping.
Lay anti-slip mats on the cargo oor.
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Check and, when necessary, adjust the tire
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pressure ( page 204).
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When loading When loading
Observe the following when loading the vehicle:
Never exceed the gross axle weight rating or
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the vehicle's permissible gross mass.
The vehicle's curb weight is increased if acces-
sories or optional equipment are installed. This
reduces the maximum payload.
Observe the notes on load distribution
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( page 165).
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Observe the notes on load securing
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( page 166) and the legal requirements of
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the country in which you are currently driving.
Observe the information on the carrier systems
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( page 171).
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A er A er loading loading
Observe the following a er loading the vehicle:
Check that the luggage and/or load is secure
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before every journey and at regular intervals on
long trips.
Close all doors and the tailgate.
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Adjust the range of the headlamps according
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to the vehicle load ( page 77).
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Adjust the tire pressure according to the vehi-
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cle load ( page 204).
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Adapt your driving style according to the vehi-
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cle load.
N N o o t t es on dis es on distr tributing t ibuting the load wit he load within t
* NO NOTE TE Damage to the oor covering due to
uneven loading
Excessive point loading on the cargo compart-
ment oor or on the load area can negatively
a ect the driving characteristics and could
damage the oor covering.
Distribute the load evenly. When doing
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so, ensure that the overall center of grav-
ity of the load is always as low and close
to the center as possible and between
the axles near the rear axle.
Observe the following notes:
Always transport loads in the cargo compart-
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ment and with the seat backrests folded up
and properly locked in position.
Always place the load against the front or rear
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seat backrests.
Transporting 165
165
hin the v he vehicle ehicle