Owners Manual

and then try to brake the vehicle using only
the service brake. Never let the vehicle roll.
Overloading the vehicle will increase the risk
of the vehicle tipping over. Never exceed the
gross axle weight ratings under any
circumstances. Keep the vehicle's center of
gravity as low as possible when the vehicle is
laden.
If the vehicle is frequently or mainly operated
in muddy or marshy terrain, substances that
impair braking efficiency, such as sand or oil
mixed with water, could get into the brake
system. This may lead to excessive wear and
a reduction in braking performance (up to the
point of total failure).
After driving off-road, always carry out a short
brake test. If you detect a reduced braking
performance or hear scraping noises, have
the brake system checked at a qualified
specialist workshop.
G
WARNING
When driving off-road, your body is subject to
forces from all directions, due to the uneven
surface. You could for example be thrown out
of your seat and be injured. Always wear a
seat belt, even when driving off-road.
!
Always observe the ground clearance of
the vehicle and avoid obstacles, e.g. deep
ruts.
Obstacles could damage the vehicle, for
example:
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the axles
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the propeller shafts and the transmission
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the tanks and supply reservoirs
For this reason, you should always drive
slowly when driving off-road. If you have to
drive over obstacles, have the co-driver
direct you.
When driving the vehicle, particularly on
rough terrain, ensure that the driven wheels
always have sufficient traction.
Avoid letting the drive wheels spin. Spinning
drive wheels can damage the differential.
Rules for driving off-road
G
WARNING
If you drive over obstacles or in ruts, the
steering wheel may jerk out of your grip and
you could injure the thumbs on both hands.
Always hold the steering wheel cross firmly
with both hands. When driving over obstacles,
you must expect steering forces to increase
briefly and suddenly.
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Before driving off-road, stop the vehicle and
shift to a low gear.
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Only drive off-road with the engine running
and a gear engaged.
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Drive slowly and smoothly. Walking pace is
necessary in many situations.
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Make sure that the wheels always remain
in contact with the ground.
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Drive with extreme care over unknown
terrain where you can only see for a short
distance. As a precaution, get out of the
vehicle to take a look at the route to be
taken first.
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Check the water depth before fording.
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Watch out for obstacles (e.g. rocks, holes,
tree stumps and ruts).
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Avoid edges where the surface could
crumble or break away.
Before driving off-road
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If the surface demands it, temporarily
deactivate ASR when pulling away
(Y page 51).
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Safely stow or secure any items of luggage
or loads (Y page 144).
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We recommend that you additionally
carry a shovel and a recovery rope with
shackle in the vehicle.
After driving off-road
G
WARNING
Damage caused to the vehicle when driving
off-road may cause consequential damage,
Driving tips
139
Operation
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