Mercedes-Benz 280 C, Owner'S Manual

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I is heavier
I is restricted in its acceleration and gra-
dient climbing capability
I has an increased braking distance
I is affected more by strong crosswinds
I
demands more sensitive steering
I consumes more fuel.
On long and steep downhill gradients, you
must shift to a lower gear or, on vehicles
with automatic transmission*, select shift
range
1 , 2 or 3 in good time.
i
This also applies if you have activated
cruise control or Speedtronic*.
This uses the braking effect of the engine
and you will not have to brake to such an
extent to maintain the same 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 repeat-
edly rather than continuously.
G
Risk of accident
Never depress the brake pedal continuously
while the vehicle is in motion, e.g. never
cause the brakes to rub by applying con-
stant slight pedal pressure. This causes the
brake system to overheat, increases the
braking distance and can lead to the brakes
failing completely.
Driving tips
I Maintain a greater distance from the
vehicle in front than when driving with-
out a trailer.
I Avoid braking abruptly. If possible,
brake gently at first to allow the trailer
to run on. Then increase the braking
force rapidly.
I The values given for gradient-climbing
capabilities from a standstill refer to
sea level. When driving in mountainous
areas, note that the power output of
the engine and with it its gradient
climbing capability decrease with in-
creasing altitude.
If the trailer swings from side to side:
E
Do not accelerate.
E
Do not counter-steer.
E
Brake if necessary.
G
Risk of accident
On no account should you attempt to draw
the vehicle/trailer combination out by in-
creasing speed.
Folding in the ball coupling
i
Fold in the ball coupling when you are not
using the trailer tow hitch.
G
Risk of injury
Make sure that no persons or animals are in
the pivoting range of the ball coupling. Oth-
erwise, they could be injured.
The release wheel is located in the boot
behind the trim on the left-hand side.
Operation
Trailer towing*
213
ee
Nur fuer internen Gebrauch Nur fuer internen Gebrauch