Load distribution
General notes
!
Excessive loads on individual points of the
cargo floor or on the load surface impair vehi-
cle handling characteristics and could cause
damage to the floor covering.
The overall center of gravity of the load should
always be as low as possible, centered and
between the axles near the rear axle.
On Cargo Vans and Passenger Vans:
X
Always transport loads in the cargo compart-
ment.
X
Always place the load against the backrests of
the rear bench seat.
X
Move large and heavy loads as far towards the
front of the vehicle as possible against the
rear bench seat. Stow the load flush with the
rear bench seat.
X
Always additionally secure the load with suit-
able load-securing aids or tie downs.
Observe the following notes:
R
Do not stack loads higher than the upper edge
of the backrests.
R
Transport loads behind seats that are not
occupied.
R
If the rear bench seat is not occupied, insert
the seat belts crosswise into the buckle of the
opposite seat belt.
Securing loads
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
If you attach the tie-down incorrectly when
securing the load, the following may occur in
the event of abrupt changes in direction, brak-
ing maneuvers or an accident:
R
the cargo tie-down rings may become
detached or the tie-down may tear if the
permissible load is exceeded
R
the load may not be restrained.
This may cause the load to slip, tip over or be
tossed about, striking vehicle occupants.
There is a risk of an accident and injury.
Always tension the tie-downs in the proper
manner and only between the described
cargo tie-down rings. Always use tie-downs
designed specifically for the loads.
G
WARNING
You may not transport anyone in the cargo
compartment or on the load surface. Never let
more people ride in the vehicle than there are
seat belts available. Make sure everyone rid-
ing in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a
separate seat belt. Never use a seat belt for
more than one person at a time.
!
Observe the information on the maximum
loading capacity of the individual cargo tie-
down points.
If you use several cargo tie-down points to
secure a load, you must always take the max-
imum loading capacity of the weakest cargo
tie-down point into account.
If you brake hard, for example, the forces act-
ing could be up to several times the weight
force of the load. Always use multiple cargo
tie-down points in order to distribute the force
absorption. Load the anchorages evenly.
Spread the load evenly between the cargo tie-
down points or tie-down rings.
Please also refer to the notes about qualified
specialist workshops (
Y page 26).
Always observe the operating instructions or the
notes of the lashing strap manufacturer for the
operation of the lashing strap.
Information about the maximum loading capa-
city of the cargo tie-down points can be found in
the "Technical data" section (
Y page 285).
As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring
that:
R
The load is secured against slipping, tipping,
rolling or f
alling off. This applies both in nor-
mal traffic conditions and if the vehicle must
swerve to avoid an obstacle, in the event of
full brake application and on poor road surfa-
ces.
R
The applicable requirements and guidelines
relating to load-securing practices must be
met.
If this is not the case, this may constitute a
punishable offense, depending on local legis-
lation and any ensuing consequences.
214
Securing loads
Transporting loads
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