Notes on distributing the load within the vehicle
*
NOTE Risk of damage to the floor covering
Excessive point loading on the cargo compart-
ment floor or on the load area can negatively
affect the driving characteristics and could
damage the floor covering.
#
Vehicles with rear-wheel drive: distribute
the load uniformly. When doing so,
ensure that the overall center of gravity
of the load is always as low and close to
the center as possible and between the
axles near the rear axle.
#
Vehicles with all-wheel drive: distribute
the load uniformly. When doing so,
ensure that the overall center of gravity
of the load is always as low and close to
the center as possible and between the
axles.
For Cargo Vans, buses and Passenger Vans:
R
Always transport loads in the cargo compart-
ment.
R
Always place the load against the seat backr-
ests of the rear bench seat.
R
Move large and heavy loads as far towards the
front of the vehicle as possible in the direction
of travel against the rear bench seat. Stow
loads flush with the rear bench seat.
R
Always additionally secure the load with suita-
ble load securing aids or tie downs.
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The load must not protrude above the upper
edge of the seat backrests.
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Transport loads behind seats that are not
occupied.
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If the rear bench seat is not occupied, insert
the seat belts crosswise into the seat belt
buckle of the opposite seat belt.
&
WARNING Risk of accident and injury due
to incorrect use of the lashing straps
The following can occur:
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The tie-down eyes may detach or the lash-
ing strap may tear if the permissible load is
exceeded
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The load cannot be restrained
The load can slip, tip over or be flung about,
striking vehicle occupants.
#
Always tension the lashing straps in the
proper manner and only between the
described tie-down eyes.
#
Always use lashing straps designed spe-
cifically for the loads.
%
Observe the information relating to the maxi-
mum loading capacity of the individual cargo
tie-down points. If you combine various cargo
tie-down points to secure a load, always take
the maximum loading capacity of the weakest
cargo tie-down point into account. During
maximum full-stop braking, forces may act
which can multiply the weight of the load.
Always use several cargo tie-down points to
distribute the load. Spread the load evenly
between the cargo tie-down points or tie-down
eyes.
Observe the Operating Instructions or the lashing
strap manufacturer's instructions for the operation
of the lashing strap.
Observe the information relating to the maximum
loading capacity of the cargo tie-down points
(
/
page 298).
As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring the
following:
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The load is secured against slipping, tipping,
rolling or falling off.
Take usual traffic conditions as well as swerv-
ing or full brake application and bad roads into
account.
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The applicable requirements and guidelines
relating to load-securing practices are met.
If this is not the case, this may constitute a
punishable offense, depending on local legisla-
tion and any ensuing consequences. Observe
country-specific laws.
208 Transporting
