TM 5-2330-325-14&P
Section III. OPERATION UNDER USUAL CONDITIONS
Paragraph
Page
Number
Paragraph Title
Number
Scope ........................................................................................................................ 2-15
Types of Loads ......................................................................................................... 2-15
Load Distribution ....................................................................................................... 2-17
Calculating Center of Gravity ................................................................................... 2-17
Payload Configurations ............................................................................................ 2-19
Loading or Unloading Equipment and Cargo .......................................................... 2-23
Tiedown Procedures ................................................................................................ 2-26
Transporting Loads .................................................................................................. 2-27
Coupling Gooseneck to Prime Mover and Raising Trailer ...................................... 2-29
Disconnecting Gooseneck from Trailer for Loading or Unloading .......................... 2-34
Connecting Gooseneck to Trailer ............................................................................ 2-37
Uncoupling Gooseneck from Prime Mover .............................................................. 2-40
Caging the Brakes .................................................................................................... 2-42
a.
This section provides instructions on operating the M870A3 Trailer (MHET) under usual
conditions.
b.
Refer to Section IV of this chapter for operating instructions under unusual conditions.
c.
Before, during, and after operation, perform applicable Operator PMCS (Chapter 2, Section II).
CAUTION
Improper load placement can have a detrimental effect on braking, evasive
maneuvers, and handling characteristics of a tractor trailer vehicular combination.
a.
Concentrated Loads. A load that is localized over a short distance is a concentrated load. Trailer
frame members are subject to damage or yielding when subjected to concentrated loads beyond
their capacity. Generally, avoid knife-edged interfaces between the load and the trailer. Load
spreading devices such as timbers or steel beams are recommended when this type of interface
exists.
b.
Distributed Loads. A load that bears continuously along its length of engagement with the trailer is
a distributed load.
c.
Self-Supporting Loads. A load that has its own rigid base is considered to be a self-supported
load. It may also be referred to as a "rigid load" or "rigid base load."
d.
Compound Loads. A load that is a combination of two or more types of loads on one trailer is
considered to be compound load.