270 Equipment operation The driving, braking and steering character- istics of the vehicle change when equipment is coupled or attached as a result of the addi- tional overhang and momentum of the equip- ment. Drive with even greater care. Before engaging the PTO shaft and during operation, ensure that no one is in the danger area. G WARNING When working with additional equipment you could touch or damage the supply lines, espe- cially when moving earth. There is a risk of serious or even fatal injuries. Always determine and mark where the supply lines for gas, water and electricity are located. Have the supply interrupted if necessary. Observe the following notes:
General notes R Sufficient steerability of the vehicle must be guaranteed. The front axle load, with corresponding attached equipment and bodies for all vehicle loads, must be at least 33% of the actual gross vehicle weight. Observe a safe distance of at least 5 m from high-voltage transmission lines. If it is not possible to maintain a safe distance at all times, have the power supply interrupted. When working with attached equipment, make sure that there are no people in the working area. The working area also includes the area into which the equipment could throw dirt or stones, for example. Block the area off for pedestrians if neces- sary.
Warn other road users by securing the area of danger according to the relevant traffic regu- lations. Ensure that persons do not reach into the moving parts of attached equipment. Working mode R The rear axle load must always be at least 33% of the actual gross vehicle weight. R Secure attached equipment using the restraining facilities provided with the equipment when travelling to or from the place of operation. R Make sure that the power take-offs and hydraulic system are disengaged. R Attaching equipment to the vehicle changes its weight and dimensions. This can have a considerable effect on the han- dling characteristics.
R Make sure that the permissible axle loads are observed and that the vehicle dimen- sions comply with the appropriate traffic regulations. Power assistance can be obtained from a Mercedes-Benz Service Centre. Earth-moving equipment Familiarise yourself with your surroundings before commencing work. This could help you to avoid collisions with objects that do not lie within the driver's field of vision. The following could be overlooked: Working with equipment Important safety notes G WARNING Without your being aware of it, there may be persons in the danger area of the vehicle who could collide with the vehicle or its add-on equipment.
In addition, objects or dirt may be thrown off by the add-on equipment. There is a risk of serious or even fatal injuries. R high-voltage transmission lines R supply lines R objects that are hidden by overgrown plants R objects that are covered in snow Remove objects from the working area. Mark the route of supply lines and interrupt the supply if necessary. Inform the relevant authorities.