TM 9-2330-383-14&P
b. Towing HEMAT.
CAUTION
Allow 2 minutes for trailer air suspension to fully inflate before
highway or cross-country driving or suspension system may be damaged.
The trailer obstacle clearance is 14.4 inches and "High Center" is 20.2
inches. These values differ from the towing vehicle and must be
considered when operating off-road.
(1)
Driving. When driving the towing vehicle with the trailer attached, the
overall length of the combined unit must be kept in mind when passing other
vehicles and when turning. Because the unit is hinged in the middle, turning and
backing are also affected. The trailer payload will affect stopping and off-road
maneuvering.
(2)
Turning. When turning corners, allow for the fact that the trailer
wheels turn inside the turning radius of the towing vehicle. To make a right turn
at a road intersection, drive the towing vehicle about halfway into the
intersection and then cut sharply to the right. This will allow for the shorter
turning radius of the trailer and keep it off the curb.
(3)
Stopping. In normal operation, the brakes of the towing vehicle and the
trailer are applied at the same time the driver steps on the brake pedal. Brake
pressure must be applied gradually and smoothly. The trailer brakes may be applied
separately by using the brake control lever on the towing vehicle. On steep
downgrades or slippery surfaces, the trailer brakes must be applied before the
vehicle brakes. This will reduce the possibility of jackknifing. Refer to towing
vehicle operator's manual for more detailed instructions about braking for your
particular truck.
(4)
Parking. When the towing vehicle and trailer are left parked and
unattended, set the parking brake on the vehicle. When the towing vehicle parking
brake is set, the trailer brake is automatically set.
________
WARNING
Do not allow any personnel to stand between the towing vehicle and
trailer when backing. Make sure that you can see your ground guides at
all times. Serious injury or death can occur if personnel are caught
between moving vehicles.
Backing the trailer without locking towbar may cause vehicle to
jackknife, injuring personnel and damaging equipment. Perform this
procedure only when absolutely necessary.
(5)
Backing - Locked Towbar.
(a)
When backing trailer, use two ground guides. Refer to FM 21-60
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