2006 FIAT DUCATO length

17GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
For rear central bench seat,
lap belt without retractor
(Combi versions)
To fasten the seat belt: insert the
fastener tongue A-fig. 14into the
buckle Buntil hearing the locking
click.
Side seats are fitted with seat belts
with three anchor points.
To unfasten the seat belts: press
button C.
To adjust the seat belt: slide the web-
bing through adjuster D, pulling end E
to shorten it and length F to length-
en it.
IMPORTANT The belt is adjust-
ed properly when it fits closely across
the hips.
fig. 14
F0D 0002m
Remember that in the case
of a violent collision, back
seat passengers not wearing seat
belts also represent a serious dan-
ger to the passengers in the front
(Panorama, Combi and CrewCab
versions).
WARNING
For rear central bench seat,
seat belt with retractor
(Combi versions)
Rear bech seat is fitted with three
point belt and retractor for central
seat.
fig. 15
F0D0291m
Belt use is shown in fig. 15
fig. 15a
F0D0298m
The rear central seat belt
safety action is only guar-
anteed when the bench seat back-
rest is tilted backwards completely
(see figure 15a).
WARNING

127GETTING THE BEST OUT OF YOUR VEHICLE
In addition to these general precau-
tions, some simple measures could en-
hance driving safety, comfort and the
length of the vehicle’s life:
– distribute the load evenly over the
load floor: if you need to concentrate
it all in one point choose the part be-
tween the axles;
– remember that the lower the load
is, the lower the vehicle’s centre of
gravity will be, contributing to a safe
drive; you should therefore always po-
sition the heavier goods at the bottom;
– finally, remember that the way in
which the vehicle moves is influenced
by the weight being carried. In partic-
ular, stopping distance lengthens par-
ticularly at high speed.CHEAP RUNNING
THAT RESPECTS
THE ENVIRONMENT
Environmental protection has been
one of the guiding principles in the
production of the Ducato. It is no ac-
cident that its pollution control equip-
ment is much more effective than that
required by current legislation.
Nonetheless, the environment can-
not get by without a concerted effort
from everyone. By following a few sim-
ple rules you can avoid harming the
environment and often cut down fuel
consumption at the same time.
On this subject, a few useful tips have
been given below to supplement those
marked by symbol #at various points
of the handbook. You are asked to
read both the former and latter care-
fully.
Even if the vehicle is sta-
tionary on a steep hill or
sideways incline, goods not proper-
ly secured could fall out when the
back or side doors are opened.
WARNING
Observe the enforced rules
if you need to carry a spare
can of petrol. Only use a homolo-
gated can and secure it to the load
anchoring eyebolts. Even given
these precautions, the risk of fire in
the event of an accident is in-
creased.
WARNING

175VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
When working on the bat-
tery or near it, always wear
the proper goggles.
WARNING
Running the battery with
low fluid level can damage
the battery beyond repair and
could also cause its explosion.
WARNING
If the vehicle is to stand for
a long time in the cold, re-
move the battery and store it in a
warm place to avoid it freezing.
WARNINGCHECKING THE CHARGE
The battery charge may be checked
satisfactorily through the indicator and
acting according to the colour the in-
dicator shows.
Refer to the table below or to the la-
belB-fig. 15on the battery.USEFUL ADVICE FOR
LENGTHENING THE LIFE OF
YOUR BATTERY
When you park the vehicle, ensure
the doors are closed properly. The
ceiling lights must be off.
Do not keep accessories (e.g.: sound
system, hazard lights, etc.) switched
on for a long time when the engine is
not running.
IMPORTANTA battery which is
kept at a charge of less than 50% for
any length of time will be damaged by
sulphation leading to a reduction in
cranking power and a higher risk of the
battery electrolyte freezing (this may
even occur at –10 °C).
Bright white colour
Dark colour without green
area in the centre
Dark colour with green
area in the centreTop up electrolyte
Low charge level
Electrolyte level
and charge sufficientContact a
Fiat Dealership
Charge the battery
(advisable to contact a Fiat
Dealership)
No action

217TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ELECTRONIC AUTOMATIC
GEARBOX
(2.8 JTD versions only)
Automatic gearbox with four speeds
plus reverse with self-adapting control
(i.e. capable of adapting to the driver’s
driving style), which transmits power
continuously and with very fast elec-
tro-hydraulic gear engagement times.SUSPENSIONS
FRONT
Independent wheel, McPherson sus-
pension.
Telescopic dampers with flexible an-
chorage to the body and dust guards
on buffers.
Coil springs offset with shock ab-
sorbers and knock-guard buffers.
Lower wishbone with twin taper
rubber bushing on chassis and ball
head on wheel stud.REAR
Rigid tubular axle type.
Lengthways single blade (two-blades
as optional) leaf spring.
Vertical shock absorbers anchored
above on the body (on the inside of
the wheelhouse) and down on the
axle flange.
Knock-guard buffer fixed to the side
member.
Coupling for brake load proportion-
ing.