Low-Bed Trailer

Low-Bed Trailer

The low-bed trailer (fig. 7-4) is often identified by the term lowboy. This trailer is used for hauling heavy equipment and material that is overheight and overweight for stake trailers. Low-bed trailers are heavily constructed to handle loads of 35 tons or more.

Tilt-Bed Trailer

The tilt-bed trailer (fig. 7-5) is often identified by the term tilt-top and is designed to tilt toward the rear for ease of loading and unloading without the use of ramps. Tilt-beds are primarily used to haul equipment; however, they also are used to transport construction materials and supplies.

To avoid damaging equipment and trailers, you should remember the following rules:

1. Do not attempt to load heavy equipment on a tilt-bed trailer from a loading ramp or a dock.

2. Before loading heavy equipment on a tilt-bed trailer, you should ensure the locking mechanism (fig. 7-6) is fully disengaged.

Figure 7-6.-Tilt-bed deck-locking mechanism.

3. When the tilt-bed trailer is in the tilt position, you should ensure the rear of the bed is resting on even ground.

4. Do not place heavy loads beyond the deck hinge.

5. Failure to follow the above rules can result in severe damage to the tilt-bed trailer and to the locking mechanism.

Detachable Gooseneck Trailer

The detachable gooseneck trailer (fig. 7-7) is often identified by the term drop neck and is designed so the gooseneck can be removed, leaving the front of the frame resting on the ground (fig. 7-8). This feature allows equipment to be loaded readily, using short ramps (usually hinged to the deck) or small blocks.

PRESTART INSPECTION

The primary reason for performing a prestart inspection is to ensure your tractor-trailer is safe. When performing your prestart inspection, you should use the same procedure each time. If you do so, you will be less likely to forget anything. A prestart inspection aid is shown in figure 7-9.

The following prestart inspection can be used as a procedure when performing prestart on all automotive equipment. All problems should be documented on the "Hard Card" NAVFAC 9-11240/13 and repaired as required. Do not operate any equip ment that does not meet safety standards. All safety features must be in operational order before any piece of equipment is used.

Figure 7-7.-Detachable gooseneck trailer

Figure 7-8.-Detached gooseneck from trailer.

Figure 7-9.-Tractor-trailer prestart inspection aid.

Vehicle Overview

When you approach the tractor-trailer, take note of the general condition. Look for damage or if the vehicle is leaning to one side. Look under the vehicle for fresh oil, coolant, grease, or fuel leaks. You should check the area around the vehicle for people, objects, low hanging wires, and tree limbs which could present a hazard when the vehicle is moved.

Look inside the cab and ensure the parking brakes are engaged. For added safety, a set of wheel chocks should be in place around one of the tires.

NOTE: In the NCF, all 2 ton and above vehicles must have a set of wheel chocks that are used when the vehicle is parked.