TM 9-2320-302-10
0005 00-11
OPERATION UNDER USUAL CONDITIONS - CONTINUED
0005 00
OPERATE SLIDING FIFTH WHEEL/COUPLE TO SEMITRAILER
CAUTION
•
The M915A3 is designed to be used with M871, M872, and M1062
semitrailers only. Other semitrailers may cause equipment damage.
•
Semitrailer must be blocked and semitrailer brakes locked to prevent
damage to tractor or semitrailer by uncontrolled sliding of fifth wheel.
•
If towing M872 semitrailer, rear mud flaps must be removed and stowed
in brackets provided. Failure to do so will cause equipment damage.
•
Tractor trucks have the capability to turn greater than 90°. Care must be
taken to avoid hitting semitrailer with tractor when turning more than
90°.
•
Operator must use caution when cresting hills which cause the tractor
truck to have a nose down angle greater than 4° with respect to towed
semitrailer. Damage to vehicle or loss of control could occur.
NOTE
Start position for coupling is with fifth wheel jaws unlocked (open), fifth
wheel in LOAD position, and fifth wheel slide control lever in LOCKED
position.
1.
Block trailer wheels.
WARNING
DO NOT use trailer handbrake as primary brake to keep tension on coupling
system. This will cause undue tension on brakes and coupling which could
result in injury to personnel or damage to equipment. Prevent problems with
slack in fifth wheel by using good braking habits and adjusting coupling and
braking systems properly.
2.
Ensure that fifth wheel ramps are level with, or are slightly below, the angle of the pickup
ramps.
WARNING
Use caution when coupling to semitrailer. BE ALERT for personnel in area.
Ensure that hands, arms, and body are clear of potential pinch points. Failure
to follow this warning may result in injury to personnel.
CAUTION
Be careful not to run kingpin up fifth wheel ramps as this can damage kingpin
and/or fifth wheel.
