Loading Guidelines - Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Operator's Manual

Always observe the operating instructions of
the respective manufacturer when using suit-
able load securing aids or tie downs. In par-
ticular, the information on service life.
Load securing aids and tie downs may not be
used, for example, if:
identification marks are missing or illegible
R
there are yarn breakages, damage to bear-
R
ing seams or other signs of tearing
there are signs of shearing, deformation,
R
pinching or other damage
there is damage to clamping or connecting
R
elements
Such load securing aids and tie downs are
worn; they should not be used and must be
replaced. If you use load securing aids or tie
downs which are worn, the load may not be
sufficiently secured and could cause damage
to property.
After an accident, the following must be
checked at a specialist workshop:
Cargo compartment floor
R
Load surface
R
Cargo tie-down rings
R
Tie downs
R
Otherwise, the load may not be correctly
secured the next time anything is stowed.
Even if you follow all loading guidelines, the
load increases the risk of injury in the event
of an accident. Observe the tips in the "Secur-
ing luggage/loads" (
Y
distribution" ( page 244) sections.
Y
Before loading
! The anti-slip mats cannot be used for
securing goods and must be replaced when
they show signs of:
Permanent deformation and crushing
R
Crack formation
R
Cuts
R
page 244) and "Load

Loading guidelines

Tire pressure: check the tire pressure and
X
correct if necessary (
Cargo compartment floor: clean the
X
cargo compartment floor.
The cargo compartment floor must be free
from oil and dust, dry and swept clean to
prevent the load from slipping.
Place non-slip mats (anti-slip mats) on the
X
cargo compartment floor if necessary.
During loading
! On passenger van versions with maxi-
mum seating layout, the permissible rear
axle load would be exceeded if the full pay-
load were to be loaded in the cargo com-
partment.
Observe the gross axle weight rating and
X
permissible gross vehicle weight for your
vehicle.
Take into account that your vehicle's curb
weight is increased if accessories or
optional equipment are installed. The max-
imum payload is thus reduced.
Observe the notes on load distribution
X
( page 244).
Y
The overall center of gravity of the load
should always be as low as possible, cen-
tered and between the axles near the rear
axle.
Secure the load (
X
Y
Always observe the relevant country-spe-
cific legal requirements, laws and regula-
tions.
Checks after loading
G
WARNING
Combustion engines emit poisonous exhaust
gases, such as carbon monoxide. If the sliding
door or rear door is open when the engine is
running, exhaust gases can enter the vehicle
interior, especially during the journey. There
is a risk of poisoning.
page 290).
Y
page 244).
Z
243