TM 9-2330-357-14&P
2-11. OPERATION OF SEMITRAILER.
NOTE
For additional Information on driving, see FM 21-305.
Semitrailer is designed to be towed by 10 ton, 8x8, Tractor Truck (M983).
a.
Towing.
(1) When towing the semitrailer, overall length of the unit must be kept in mind when passing
other vehicles and when turning.
(2)
Turning and backing operations will be affected because the tractor truck and semitrailer
are a hinged unit.
(3)
Semitrailer's payload will effect stopping and off-road maneuverability.
(4)
Always tow semitrailer at safe speeds and note any driving irregularities.
b.
Turning.
(1)
When turning corners, allow for semitrailer wheels turning inside turning radius of tractor
truck.
(2) To make a right turn at an intersection, drive tractor truck halfway into intersection, then cut
sharply to right. This will allow for shorter turning radius of semitrailer and will keep semitrailer off curb.
c.
Stopping.
(1)
During normal operation, brake pressure must be applied gradually and smoothly.
(2)
Brakes of tractor truck and semitrailer are applied at the same time when driver applies
brake pedal.
(3) Semitrailer brakes may be applied separately by using brake control lever on tractor truck
steering column. On steep grades or slippery surfaces, semitrailer brakes must be applied before tractor truck
brakes. This will help prevent semitrailer from jackknifing or swinging out of line of travel.
d.
Parking.
(1)
When tractor truck and semitrailer are to be parked and left unattended, set parking brake
on tractor truck.
(2)
Turn off tractor truck engine.
(3)
Set chock blocks behind rearmost wheels of semitrailer.
e.
Backing.
(1)
Use a ground guide to ensure safe backing operation.
(2)
Adjust all tractor truck rearview mirrors before backing.
(3) If semitrailer is to be backed to right, turn tractor truck steering wheel to left
(counterclockwise). If semitrailer is to be backed to left, turn tractor truck steering wheel to right (clockwise).
(4) When semitrailer has turned and backing in a straight line is required, turn tractor truck
wheels in the direction semitrailer is moving. This will slowly bring tractor truck and semitrailer into a straight
line.
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