TM 9-2330-227-14&P
PREPARATION FOR USE - CONTINUED
CHECKING BRAKES
1. Apply towing vehicle semitrailer handbrake control.
2. Have assistant watch semitrailer tire and wheel assemblies as you move semitrailer forward.
Semitrailer tire and wheel assemblies should not move. If they move, recheck truck tractor-
to-semitrailer airhose connections.
OPERATION
DRIVING
When driving truck tractor and semitrailer, the overall length of unit must be kept in mind when passing
other vehicles and when turning. Because unit is hinged in the middle, backing is also affected.
TURNING
When turning corners, allow for fact that semitrailer tires and wheels turn inside turning radius of the
truck tractor. Make right turn at road intersection by driving towing vehicle about half way into
intersection, then cut sharply to the right. This will keep semitrailer off curb.
STOPPING
Brakes of truck tractor and semitrailer are applied at the same time in normal operation when driver
steps on brake pedal. Brake pressure must be applied gradually and smoothly. Semitrailer brakes
may be applied separately by using semitrailer handbrake control lever on steering column. On
steep downgrades or slippery surfaces, semitrailer brakes must be applied before tractor brakes.
This will reduce the possibility of jackknifing semitrailer.
TA231213
2-23
