05 2026 Open Trail Chassis Features

Performance: 

The Tiffin Open Trail Mercedes-Benz® 3500XD AWD Dual Wheel is built for durability, performance, and comfort, offering a powerful driving experience. Featuring a Mercedes-Benz® 2.0 Liter I4 Turbo Diesel High Output Engine, this chassis delivers 208 HP and 332 lb-ft of torque, ensuring smooth acceleration and efficient performance. The Mercedes-Benz® 9G-Tronic Automatic Transmission enhances driving precision, while All-Wheel Drive provides stability and control in various road conditions. Additionally, a 220-Amp Alternator ensures consistent electrical power supply. 

Load Adaptive Electronic Stability: 

Load-Adaptive Electronic Stability Program (ESP) in the Mercedes-Benz 3500XD AWD helps maintain vehicle stability by adjusting braking and engine power based on load conditions. Here’s how it operates: 

1. Automatic Activation: The system is always active when driving and continuously monitors vehicle dynamics. 

2. Load Detection: Sensors assess the vehicle’s weight distribution and adjust stability controls accordingly. 

3. Braking Adjustments: If the system detects potential skidding or loss of control, it selectively applies brakes to individual wheels to stabilize the vehicle. 

4. Engine Power Management: ESP can reduce engine power momentarily to prevent excessive wheel spin. 

5. Cornering Stability: The system helps maintain control when navigating curves, especially with heavy loads. 

6. Limitations: While ESP enhances stability, it does not replace careful driving, especially in extreme weather or road conditions. 

Suspension: 

The Sumo Springs® rear suspension is a key enhancement designed to improve the ride quality of the Tiffin Open Trail Mercedes-Benz® 3500XD AWD. These suspension components function as progressive-rate airless springs, providing additional support to the rear suspension system. Their primary benefits include improved handling, greater stability, and enhanced comfort, particularly when driving over uneven terrain or rough roads. The Sumo Springs® work by reducing sway and absorbing vibrations, creating a smoother driving experience with less fatigue for the driver and passengers. 

Additionally, these springs help mitigate excessive chassis movement, enhancing overall control when navigating curves, bumps, and dips. This improved damping effect reduces strain on the vehicle’s suspension components, leading to less wear and tear over time. The Sumo Springs® are particularly beneficial for vehicles carrying heavy loads or those frequently used for long-distance travel. 

The Tiffin Open Trail offers the Agile RIP (Ride Improvement Package) Kit as an optional upgrade, providing an enhanced suspension system tailored for smoother handling and greater ride comfort. This package replaces the Sumo Springs®, refining the chassis’ ride quality with custom-tuned shock absorbers and upgraded suspension components. 

The Agile RIP Kit is designed to improve stability, control, and road feedback, particularly beneficial for off-road driving or long-distance travel. It optimizes suspension travel, enhances damping efficiency, and reduces harsh impacts on rough terrain. This option caters to drivers looking for a more dynamic and responsive driving experience, fine-tuned for comfort without sacrificing performance. 

Brakes: 

The Tiffin Open Trail is built on the Mercedes-Benz 3500XD AWD chassis, which includes Active Brake Assist (also known as Collision Mitigation). This system enhances safety by detecting obstacles ahead and automatically applying braking if a collision is imminent. 

How Active Brake Assist Works 

• Uses radar and camera sensors to monitor traffic. 

• Provides visual and acoustic warnings if a potential collision is detected. 

• If the driver does not react, the system automatically applies braking to reduce impact or avoid the collision. 

Additional Safety Features 

• Integrated with Adaptive Cruise Control, allowing smooth speed adjustments based on traffic flow. 

• Helps prevent rear-end collisions by reacting to sudden stops or obstacles. 

Steps to Adjust Active Brake Assist 

1. Access the Settings Menu: 

2. Navigate to the MBUX infotainment system. 

3. Select Vehicle Settings and then Driver Assistance. 

4. Modify Sensitivity: 

5. Choose between Early, Medium, or Late intervention levels. 

6. This determines how soon the system reacts to potential collisions. 

7. Enable or Disable Warnings: 

8. You can toggle visual and acoustic alerts on or off. 

9. Deactivate the System (Not Recommended): 

If needed, you can turn off Active Brake Assist, but it will reactivate upon restarting the vehicle. 

Tires and Wheels: 

The Tiffin Open Trail is designed for durability and superior performance, outfitted with reliable components that ensure smooth and secure travel. It sits on four LT245/70 R17 BF Goodrich all-terrain T/A KO2 tires, renowned for their rugged design and traction in diverse environments, from highways to challenging off-road terrains. Complementing these tires are high-quality custom Tiffin Adventure black alloy off-road wheels (Figure 5-1), which not only enhance the vehicle’s stability but also add a stylish touch to its appearance. This combination makes the Tiffin Open Trail a dependable choice for adventures that demand robust and versatile equipment. 

To keep your custom adventure off-road wheels in top condition, follow these cleaning and maintenance steps: 

1. Regular Cleaning: 

• Start by rinsing the wheels with water to remove loose dirt and debris. This prevents scratches during cleaning. 

• Apply a pH-balanced wheel cleaner or degreaser suitable for your wheel's finish. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. 

• Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the wheels, paying attention to intricate areas and crevices. 

• Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of cleaner and loosened dirt. 

• Dry the wheels completely with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent water spots. 

2. Deep Cleaning: 

• For a thorough clean, consider removing the wheels from your vehicle. This allows access to the back side of the wheels and wheel wells. 

• Follow the regular cleaning steps for the face and barrels of the wheels. If dismounted, clean the back of the wheels and spokes as well. 

• Use an iron remover to break down brake dust and other contaminants during deep cleaning. 

3. Protection: 

• Apply a high-quality wax, sealant, or ceramic coating to protect the finish. This creates a barrier against brake dust, road grime, and other contaminants. 

• Avoid using acidic or alkaline cleaners, as they can harm the wheel's finish. Stick to pH-balanced products designed for wheels. 

4. Maintenance: 

• Inspect the wheels regularly for signs of damage or wear. Address any issues promptly to maintain their integrity. 

• Clean the wheels frequently to prevent the buildup of brake dust and grime, preserving their appearance and extending their lifespan. 

By following these steps, your wheels will remain in excellent condition, ensuring both aesthetics and performance for years to come.