Mercedes-Benz ML350 Operator's Manual page 313

Operation
Driving instructions
When driving over tree stumps, big rocks
and other obstacles, observe the following
rules:
Make sure the Off-road driving program
( page 248) is switched on.
Avoid high engine speeds.
Select gear range 1 on the automatic
transmission ( page 187).
Check the vehicle clearance before
crossing obstacles.
Cross obstacles (e.g. tree stumps or
big rocks) very slowly by aiming one of
the front wheels at the center of the ob-
stacle, and repeat same with the rear
wheel.
!
Special attention is needed when you
cross obstacles on a steep incline.
The vehicle could slide sideways as a
result of its possible slanted position
which in turn may result in the vehicle
tipping or rolling over.
312
Driving on sand
For vehicles with level control*, raise
the ride height ( page 250) if neces-
sary.
Avoid high engine speeds.
Select the gear range on the automatic
transmission that is appropriate for the
terrain.
In sandy soil, drive at a steady speed as
allowed by conditions. This helps over-
come the vehicle rolling resistance and
reduce the likelihood of the vehicle
sinking into the ground.
Drive in tracks of other vehicles if they
are not too deep and if you have suffi-
cient clearance.
Ruts
A number of off-road tracks or other by-
ways have deep ruts which can cause the
underbody to come in contact with the
ground.
Switch on the Off-road driving program
( page 248).
For vehicles with level control*, raise
the ride height ( page 250) if neces-
sary.
!
Check that the ruts are not too deep
and your vehicle's clearance is suffi-
cient. Otherwise:
your vehicle may be damaged.
the underbody of the vehicle may
come in contact with the ground
and you may get stuck.
Avoid high engine speeds.
Select gear range 1 on the automatic
transmission ( page 187).
Drive next to the ruts rather than
through them if at all possible.
If the ruts are too deep to drive in, drive
with one side of the vehicle on the
grassy center strip if the route permits.