Electronic traction system (ETS), notes on towing, testing and repair work - GF42.35-P-0001-05A

Models 163, 203.265, 210.08/28 

Towing 

• If the engine is not running, there is no servo assistance. In such a case, considerably greater physical force is required for braking and steering.
• Towing with raised front or rear axle: Ignition OFF! 

Move the vehicle preferably on a transporter or trailer rather than towing the vehicle. If the vehicle must be towed, we recommend using a tow bar.

Comply with the following:

Axles not raised: 

• Key in steering lock in position 1 
• Automatic transmission selector lever in position "N" 
• Towing speed max. 50 km/h 
• Towing distance with automatic transmission max. 50 km 

Do not exceed the maximum towing speed or maximum towing distance as this may damage the transmission. 

One axle raised: 

• Ignition OFF control is active! 

Otherwise ETS/ESP 

Disconnect the propeller shafts at the flange before towing the vehicle for long distances or if the transmission is damaged. 

Tow-start 

It is not possible to emergency-start the engine by towing the vehicle.

Testing and repair work 

• The brake system is bled and the brake fluid is changed in the same way as with vehicles with ABS. It is not necessary to bleed the ETS/ESP system or carry out a special bleeding procedure.

  Using roller dynamometers 

  Brake test stand 

• Checking parking brake

  Ignition OFF otherwise ETS/ESP control is active! 

  Functional test stand or output dynamometer and testing the speedometer 

• Only possible on 2-axle roller dynamometers

Vehicle has permanent all-wheel drive. 

3 differentials are used which can be damaged by large and above all sustained differences in speed. 

Treatment of ETS/ESP components on vehicles involved in an accident 

If, because of the extent of the damage to the vehicle or the position and external appearance of the hydraulic unit after the accident, it is obvious that the hydraulic unit has sustained a heavy shock, it must be renewed.

Indications of this are e.g.:

• Hydraulic lines kinked
• Connections on hydraulic unit leaking
• Cables or plug connections damaged
• Metal block of hydraulic unit shows signs of damage
• Hydraulic unit detached from its bracket and cannot be easily reinstalled

Even if none of these are applicable the system must still be subjected to a rigorous function test. Solenoid valves and pumps must be checked using the appropriate test procedures of the handheld tester and the Diagnosis Manual.