Installing The Ball Coupling - Mercedes-Benz GLK Operator's Manual

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
with when driving without a trailer.
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.
This will use the braking effect of the engine,
so that less braking will be required to
maintain 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
Maintain a greater distance from the
R
vehicle 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
increasing altitude.
If the trailer swings from side to side:
X
Do not accelerate.
X
Do not counter-steer.
X
Brake if necessary.

Installing the ball coupling

G
WARNING
If the vehicle/trailer combination is not
secured, the trailer may come loose. As a
result, you could cause an accident.
Observe the ball coupling manufacturer's
installation instructions and special
instructions for use.
! Mercedes-Benz recommends that you
only use ball couplings that have been
tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz.
This helps to avoid damage to the vehicle.
Protective cap
X
Pull protective cap : in the direction of the
arrow out of ball coupling recess ;.
X
Stow protective cap : safely.
X
Observe the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
G
WARNING
If the ball coupling is not correctly installed
and secured, the ball coupling and the trailer
could come loose. As a result, you could
cause an accident.
Therefore, please observe the following:
Ensure that the ball coupling is secured
R
according to the ball coupling
manufacturer's installation instructions.
If the ball coupling cannot be installed as
R
prescribed, detach the ball coupling. Under
these circumstances, the ball coupling
must not be used for trailer towing.
Have the entire trailer tow hitch checked at a
qualified specialist workshop.
I n f o r ma t i o n P r o v i d e d b y :
Trailer towing
Z
161