Good morning everyone.

I am baffled. On the central pillar of my car there are 3 weights on a metal plaque

2910 kg

then a 1/ 1400kg
then a 2/ 1600kg

Could someone just tell me with 2 women in the front seats, how much weight can i put in the back without overloading and becoming dangerous.

Many thanks to anyone that replies

 

Which year and model MB do you have? Weight limits will vary depending on which year and model MB you have.

 

@pugwash Welcome! Please post a photo of the ML.

Weight ratings of vehicles can be hard to understand.

2910kg is the maximum permissible load of the vehicle plus contents, end of story. The technical term for this is Gross Vehicle Weight, or GVW.
1400kg is the maximum permissible load on the front axle. The technical term for this is Gross Axle Weight Rating-Front or GAWR-Front or Front GAWR.
1600kg is the maximum permissible load on the rear axle. The technical term for this is Gross Axle Weight Rating-Rear or GAWR-Rear or Rear GAWR.

To answer your question, the curb weight needs to be known. This information is not printed on the pillar.

For a 2015 USA model the ML350 has a curb weight of 2115kg.

This means payload (people and goods that can be carried inside the vehicle) is 2910 - 2115 = 795kg

Let's say (please forgive me) that two ladies each weigh 50kg. This is 100kg total. Remaining payload is therefore 795 - 100 = 695kg.

However, the weight limits for each axle need to be respected, so where the weight is placed in the vehicle matters.

Scenario: for two ladies that each weigh 50kg, and are sitting in the front seats, approximately 695kg of goods can additionally be carried inside the vehicle, provided the goods are placed forward of the rear axle. This means the rear seats need to be folded down, and the 695kg of goods needs to be pushed right up against the backs of the front seat. To be 100% sure of this, load the vehicle as you wish, drive it to a truck weigh scale, and verify that:

1. total vehicle does not exceed 2910kg
2. front axle does not exceed 1400kg
3. rear axle does not exceed 1600kg

It's complex, but that's how it works. These figures are published by the manufacturer for safety reasons. Safety in the sense that the vehicle suspension, tires, steering or brakes may fail to control the vehicle. Such failures have high probabilities of dire consequences, including death.

Do not exceed the manufacturer's weight ratings. Weigh the vehicle if you are not 100% sure, and if you think you are close to the limit.

 

Its a 2012 Ml350.

 

Many thanks for replying.
Its a 2012 model ml350. - We call then SUV .s over here.
I hope this will help
Many thanks