Towing A Trailer - Mercedes-Benz G-Class Operator's Manual

the trailer's documents to see what the max-
imum permissible speed is. Observe the
legally prescribed maximum speed in the rel-
evant country.
For certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the max-
imum permissible rear axle load is increased
when towing a trailer. Refer to the "Technical
data" section to find out whether this applies
to your vehicle. If you utilize any of the added
maximum rear axle load when towing a trailer,
the vehicle/trailer combination may not
exceed a maximum speed of 60 mph
(100 km/h) for reasons concerning the oper-
ating permit. This also applies in countries in
which the permissible maximum speed for
vehicle/trailer combinations is above 60 mph
(100 km/h).
When towing a trailer, your vehicle's handling
characteristics will be different in comparison
to when driving without a trailer and it will
consume more fuel.
On long and steep downhill gradients, you
must select shift range 1, 2 or 3 in good time.
i
This also applies if you have activated
cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS.
This will use the braking effect of the engine,
so that less braking will be required to main-
tain the speed. This relieves the load on the
brake system and prevents the brakes from
overheating and wearing too quickly. If you
need additional braking, depress the brake
pedal repeatedly rather than continuously.
Driving tips
If the trailer swings from side to side:
Do not accelerate.
X
Do not counter-steer.
X
Brake if necessary.
X
Maintain a greater distance from the vehi-
R
cle in front than when driving without a
trailer.
Avoid braking abruptly. If possible, brake
R
gently at first to allow the trailer to run on.
Then, increase the braking force rapidly.
The values given for gradient-climbing
R
capabilities from a standstill refer to sea
level. When driving in mountainous areas,
note that the power output of the engine,
and consequently the vehicle's gradient-
climbing capability, decrease with increas-
ing altitude.
Trailer power supply
! You can connect accessories with a max-
imum power consumption of 180 W to the
permanent power supply.
You must not charge a trailer battery using
the power supply.
The trailer socket of your vehicle is equipped
at the factory with a permanent power supply.
The permanent power supply is supplied via
trailer socket pin 9.
A qualified specialist workshop can provide
more information about installing the trailer
electrics.
Trailer with 7-pin connector
General notes
You can make a connection to the 13-pin
socket on the ball coupling using an adapter
or, if necessary, an adapter cable. Both can be
obtained in a qualified specialist workshop.
Installing the adapter
! Make sure that there is enough slack in
the cable for cornering so that the cable
cannot become detached.

Towing a trailer

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