M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

Taking the ML to the dunes

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Old Jun 8, 2005 | 10:19 PM
  #1  
BKHawk's Avatar
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From: Portland, Oregon
1999 ML430
Taking the ML to the dunes

Hey i'm planning a trip to the dunes in oregon, any precautions i should take AFTERWARDS so I dont get any rust? The dunes are 2 hours away so would you suggest taking the car to a car wash before the car ride home or what?

another question too

I have 275/55R17 cross terrains, what should I air them out too (in psi)
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Old Jun 9, 2005 | 02:01 PM
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benzboy's Avatar
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From: CT and FL
SL500 E320 ML350
Give it a good wash asap after the dunes run.
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Old Jun 9, 2005 | 02:32 PM
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From: Edmonds... good bye SD
TAKE A SHOVEL..... seriously...... TAKE A SHOVEL!!!!

The ML and Sand............ HA! I used to always get stuck, almost 60% of the time. Sad thing was, i actually took a "how to 4 wheel drive course" in Austrailia before i bought the ML.

I drove the ML down to Cabo San Lucas (20 hours south of the tijuana/san diego border). Thought i would do some off roading several times through out the journey. NOT MY BRIGHTEST IDEA! Got stranded on a desolate beach for a day/night/day... takes more then just the g-friend and i to get out.

I have never searched the forum on this.... BUT, it seems as if the ESP destroys drivablity on sand. IF YOU TRY TO ACCELERATE IN DEEP DEEP SAND (or try for a running start for a grade) the computer notices the wheels slip and engage the brakes. ALL RUNNING STARTS CEASE, and next think you know, your not only stuck, but also HIGH CENTERED. Very difficult to drive in sand if you can not get anyspeed going.

WHEN THE TRIANGLE lights up, its telling you, to look for your shovel.

Not on sand, the ML does quite fair (dirt roads, small water crossings, gravel, etc.)
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Old Jun 9, 2005 | 02:38 PM
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benzboy's Avatar
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From: CT and FL
SL500 E320 ML350
What about deactivating ESP and going into low range.
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Old Jun 9, 2005 | 05:04 PM
  #5  
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From: Edmonds... good bye SD
Some odd reason i did not have the switch to deactivate the ESP(i think usually next to the heated seats buttons). I think the ESP switch came on later models, though not sure on that for sure.

Usually ran it LOW range, definatly helped some.
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Old Jun 9, 2005 | 09:20 PM
  #6  
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From: Portland, Oregon
1999 ML430
I'm going with expierenced offroaders, they are going to help me out but suggested ESP off, low range start in 2nd gear
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