2003 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 187

Operation Driving instructions ! Observe the following during off-road driving: Adjust vehicle speed to condition of terrain. The more uneven, rutty and steeper the terrain, the lower the speed should be Watch out for obstacles, such as rocks, holes, tree stumps and ruts. Be especially careful when driving in unknown territory. It may be necessary to get out of the vehicle and scout the path you intend to take. Continuous and speedy driving in sandy soil overcomes the vehicle rolling resistance, and helps to prevent the vehicle from sinking into the ground. Do not initiate jumps with the vehicle. It interrupts the forward momentum of the vehicle. Always drive onto slopes with the the engine running and the vehicle in gear. Checklist before off-road driving Tires Check the tread depth and maintain specified tire pressure (see tire pressure label inside the fuel filler flap). Check tires for possible damage and remove foreign objects. Replace missing valve caps. Rims Dented or bent rims can cause tire pressure loss and damage the tire beads. For this reason, check and, if necessary, change rims before driving off-road. Slope angle Vehicle tool kit Check if the vehicle jack is functional. In all cases take the vehicle tool kit, a strong tow rope, a shovel and a small plank (to put under the vehicle jack on sandy soil) with you. Driving in steep terrain 1 25° (ML 320, ML 350, ML 500) 21° (ML 55 AMG) 2 26°(ML 320, ML 350, ML 500) 23° (ML 55 AMG) 187