2004 Mercedes G-Class Owner's Manual - Page 181

Controls in detail Loading The handling characteristics of a fully loaded vehicle depend greatly on the load distribution. It is therefore recommended to load the vehicle according to the illustrations shown, with the heaviest items being placed towards the front of the vehicle. Warning! For additional safety when transporting cargo while the rear seats are unoccupied, fasten the outer seat belts crosswise into the opposite side buckles. Always pad off sharp edges. Never ride vehicle with the tailgate open. Deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death. G i The rear cargo compartment is the preferred place to carry objects. The enlarged cargo compartment (rear seats folded) should only be used for items which do not fit in the rear cargo compartment alone. Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible using cargo tie-down rings and fastening materials appropriate for the weight and size of the load. In an accident, during hard braking or sudden maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle, and can cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle. To help avoid personal injury during a collision or sudden maneuver, always use partition net when transporting cargo. Always place items being carried against front or rear seat backrests, and fasten them as securely as possible. The heaviest portion of the cargo should always be kept as low as possible against front or rear seat backrest since it influences the handling characteristics of the vehicle. 181