Owners Manual

decreased gradient climbing capability and
a longer braking distance.
It is more susceptible to crosswinds and
requires cautious steering.
R
If possible, do not brake suddenly but
moderately, so that the trailer can activate
its brake. Then increase the force on the
brake pedal.
R
If the automatic transmission repeatedly
shifts between gears when driving on
inclines, restrict the shift range. Select shift
range 4, 3, 2 or 1.
Driving in a low gear and at a low speed
reduces the risk of damaging the engine.
R
If you drive on a downward slope, shift to a
lower gear in good time. This allows you to
utilize the engine's braking effect.
Avoid continuous brake application as this
may overheat the vehicle brakes and, if
installed, the trailer brakes.
R
If the coolant temperature increases
dramatically while the air-conditioning
system is switched on, switch off the air-
conditioning system.
Coolant heat can also be dissipated if you
open the windows and switch the airflow
and temperature of the heating/air
conditioning to maximum.
R
When overtaking, pay particular attention
to the extended length of your vehicle/
trailer combination.
Due to the length of your vehicle/trailer
combination you need an additional
distance before you can return to your
original lane.
Uncoupling a trailer
G
WARNING
Do not disconnect a trailer with an engaged
overrun brake. Otherwise, your hand could
become trapped between the bumper and
trailer drawbar.
!
Do not disconnect a trailer with an
engaged overrun brake. Otherwise, your
vehicle could be damaged by the
rebounding of the overrun brake.
X
Make sure the selector lever of the
automatic transmission is in position P.
X
Apply the parking brake of the vehicle.
X
Close all doors.
X
Apply the parking brake of the trailer.
X
Remove the trailer cable and if necessary
the safety chains and uncouple the trailer.
Permissible trailer and noseweights
Weight information
The Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is the
combined weight of the trailer together with
the cargo and equipment loaded on the
trailer. The permissible gross weight depends
on the vehicle and the equipment: 5000 lbs
(2268 kg) or 7500 lbs (3402 kg).
The maximum noseweight of the trailer
drawbar on the ball coupling (TWR) is
500 lbs (227 kg) or 750 lbs (340 kg). The
actual noseweight may not exceed the value
given on the identification plates of the trailer
tow hitch or the trailer. Where the values
differ, the lowest is always valid.
The Gross Combination Weight Rating
(GCWR) is calculated from the gross weight
of the trailer and the gross vehicle weight,
including a driver weight of approximately
150 lbs (68 kg). The permissible Gross
Combination Weight Rating is vehicle-specific
and depends on the equipment level.
When driving with a trailer, you should not
exceed the permitted Gross Combination
Weight Rating (GCWR).
!
On vehicles with a permissible gross
vehicle weight of 11030 lbs (5003 kg), the
permissible gross combination weight is
less than the total of the permissible gross
vehicle weight and the permissible trailer
load. Exceeding the permissible gross
154
Towing a trailer
Operation