Mercedes-Benz Metris Operating Instructions Manual page 171

Ensure that the following weights are not
exceeded:
the permissible noseweight
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the permissible trailer load
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the permissible rear axle load of the towing
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vehicle
the maximum permissible gross vehicle
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weight of both the towing vehicle and the
trailer
the maximum permissible gross weight of
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vehicle/trailer combination
The applicable permissible values that may not
be exceeded can be found:
in your vehicle documents
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on the type plates for the trailer tow hitch
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on the type plates for the trailer
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on the vehicle identification plate
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Y
( page 304)
Where the values differ, the lowest is valid.
You will find the values approved by the manu-
facturer on the vehicle identification plates
and those for the towing vehicle in the "Tech-
Y
nical data" section ( page 315).
Your vehicle behaves differently with a trailer
than without one.
The vehicle/trailer combination:
is heavier
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is restricted in its acceleration and gradient-
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climbing capability
has an increased braking distance
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is more susceptible to strong crosswinds
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requires more sensitive steering
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has a larger turning radius
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This may impair the handling characteristics.
When towing a trailer, always adjust your
speed to suit the road and weather conditions.
Drive carefully. Maintain a safe distance.
If you require any further explanation regard-
ing the information contained in the Operating
Instructions, please contact a Mercedes-Benz
Commercial Van Center.
General notes
Observe the legally permitted maximum
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speed for vehicle/trailer combinations in
the relevant country, state or Canadian
province. Before beginning the journey,
check the trailer's documents for the maxi-
mum permitted speed of your trailer.
Towing a trailer
This reduces the risk of accidents.
Install only an approved trailer coupling on
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your vehicle. Only use a ball coupling for
your Metris trailer tow hitch if it has been
approved for your vehicle. More information
on the availability, mounting and installation
of the trailer electrics is available at any
qualified specialist workshop.
The trailer coupling is one of the most
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important vehicle parts with regard to road
safety. Observe the notes on operation, care
and maintenance of the trailer tow hitch
(see the manufacturer's operating instruc-
tions).
The bumpers of your vehicle are not suitable
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for installing detachable trailer couplings.
Do not attach rented trailer tow hitches or
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other detachable trailer tow hitches to the
bumper.
Minimize the risk of damage to the ball cou-
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pling. If you do not require the ball coupling,
remove it from the ball coupling recess.
You will find weight information under "Techni-
Y
cal data" ( page 315).
The height of the ball neck changes according
to the load on the vehicle. If this is case, use a
trailer with a height-adjustable trailer drawbar.
Driving tips
The maximum permissible speed for vehicle/
trailer combination depends on the type of
trailer. Before beginning the journey, check
the trailer's documents for the maximum per-
mitted speed of your trailer. Observe the
legally permitted maximum speed in the rele-
vant country, state or Canadian province.
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 is activa-
ted.
This enables you to utilize the engine's braking
effect and you do not need to brake so heavily
to keep the correct speed. This relieves the
load on the brake system and prevents the
brakes from overheating and wearing too
quickly. If you need to brake additionally, to
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