TM 9-2330-384-14&P
2-13. TOWING SEMITRAILER (Con't).
b. TURNING.
(1)
When turning corners, allow for semitrailer wheels to turn inside the turning radius of
tractor.
(2)
To make a right turn at an intersection, drive tractor halfway into intersection, then cut
sharply to right. This will allow for semitrailer shorter turning radius and will keep tires
off curb.
c. STOPPING.
(1)
For safe stopping, apply brakes gradually and smoothly.
(2)
During normal operation, apply brakes of tractor and semitrailer at the same time. On
steep grades or slippery surfaces, apply semitrailer brakes before tractor brakes. This
will help prevent semitrailer from jackknifing or swinging out of line of travel.
(3)
Keep brakes on full for a few moments after stopping in the event that braking se-
quence causes fuel surge inside semitrailer tank.
(4)
To ensure optimum braking capability, drain air reservoirs after every eight hours of
continuous operation (see paragraph 2-2).
d. PARKING. When tractor and semitrailer combination is to be parked, set parking/
emergency brakes to prevent vehicles from rolling. Place chock blocks in front or behind wheels, as
required (see paragraph 2-11).
e. BACKING.
(1)
Use a ground guide to ensure safe backing operations.
(2)
Adjust all tractor rearview mirrors before backing.
(3)
If semitrailer is to be backed to right, turn tractor steering wheel to left (counterclock-
wise). If semitrailer is to be backed to left, turn tractor steering wheel to right (clock-
wise).
(4)
When semitrailer has turned and backing in a straight line is required, turn tractor
wheels in direction semitrailer is moving. This will slowly bring tractor and semitrailer
into a straight line.
2-14. UNCOUPLING SEMITRAILER FROM TRACTOR.
WARNING
All personnel must stand clear of semitrailer and tractor during uncoupling
operation. Failure to follow this warning may result in serious injury or death
to personnel.
a. Set tractor and semitrailer brakes (see TM 9-2320-273-10 or TM 9-2320-283-10).
b. Remove chock blocks from stowage brackets and place firmly in front of wheels (see
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