Mercedes-Benz Metris Operating Instructions Manual page 173

Observe the following when towing a trailer:
Practice driving around bends, stopping and
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backing up at a place where there is no traf-
fic. This enables you to gain experience and
get used to the new handling characteris-
tics.
Before driving, check:
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that the trailer tow hitch and ball coupling
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are secure
that the safety switch for a braked trailer
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is functioning properly
that the safety chains are secure and not
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damaged
that the electrical connections are secure
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that the lights are working
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that the wheels are in good order and the
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tire pressure is correct
Adjust the exterior mirrors to provide an
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unobstructed view of the rear section of the
trailer.
If the trailer is equipped with a separate
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functional braking system, check before
each journey whether the brakes are func-
tioning correctly.
Secure the load on the trailer according to
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the applicable specifications and current
standards on securing loads (
When driving with a trailer, check at regular
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intervals that the load is secured and that
the brakes and lights are working.
Bear in mind that the handling will be less
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stable when towing a trailer than when driv-
ing without one. Avoid sudden steering
movements.
The vehicle/trailer combination is heavier,
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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 suddenly, but
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rather moderately at first so that the trailer
can activate its brakes. Then increase the
force on the brake pedal.
If the automatic transmission repeatedly
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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 to
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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 dra-
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matically while the air-conditioning system
is switched on, switch off the air-condition-
ing system.
Coolant heat can also be dissipated by
switching the airflow and the temperature of
the air conditioning to the maximum level.
Open the windows if necessary.
When overtaking, pay particular attention to
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the extended length of your vehicle/trailer
combination.
Due to the length of your vehicle/trailer
combination you need an additional dis-
tance before you can return to your original
lane.
Uncoupling a trailer
G
WARNING
If you uncouple a trailer with the overrun
Y
page 244).
brake engaged, you could trap your hand
between the vehicle and the trailer drawbar.
There is a risk of injury.
Do not uncouple a trailer if the overrun
brake is engaged.
! Do not disconnect a trailer with an
engaged overrun brake. Otherwise, your
vehicle could be damaged by the rebound-
ing of the overrun brake.
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Make sure that the selector lever of the
automatic transmission is in position P.
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Engage the vehicle's parking brake.
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Close all doors.
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Apply the parking brake of the trailer.
X
In addition, secure the trailer against rolling
away with a wheel chock or similar object.
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Remove the trailer cable and safety chains
and decouple the trailer.
Towing a trailer
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171