TurnsWhen making turns with the tractor-trailer, youmust allow for the overall length of the unit. Remember:The tractor-trailer is hinged in the middle, and the trailerhas a tendency to cut the corners, rather than follow thetractor. For this reason, it is necessary to make a widerturn than when turning with a straight truck.Figure 7-20.—Right turn.AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS.— Sometractors in the NCF are equipped with automatictransmissions. A low range can be selected to have agreater engine braking power when going down grades.The lower ranges prevent the transmission from shiftingup beyond the selected gears. Shifting an automatictransmission incorrectly can cause serious damage tothe transmission; therefore, operators must study theoperator’s manual for techniques of shifting automatictransmission.RETARDERS.— Some tractors are equipped witha retarder that helps slow a vehicle, reducing the needfor using the brakes. One common retarder is known asthe “jake brake.” Retarders reduce brake wear andprovide another means to slow down. Retarders arecontrolled by the operator and are either exhaust, engine,hydraulic, or electric.CAUTIONTurning turn signals on well in advance ofstarting the turn is extremely important. Thisaction warns other drivers that a turn is going tobe made and allows them to drive safely.RIGHT TURNS.— When performing a right-handturn, turn slowly to give yourself and others time toavoid problems. If you cannot make the right turnwithout swinging into another lane, turn wide as youcomplete the turn, as shown in figure 7-20, view A.Keep the rear of the tractor-trailer close to the curb tostop any drivers from passing on the right. If you mustcross into the oncoming traffic lane when making yourturn, watch for vehicles coming towards you. Give themroom to go by or stop; however, do not back up for them,because you may have a vehicle directly behind you.Do not turn wide to the left as you start the turn tothe right, as shown in figure 7-20, view B, because afollowing driver may think you are turning left and tryto pass you on the right. Remember: If you turn too sharpwhile making a right turn, your trailer will ride up thecurb and possibly run over obstructions (fig. 7-21).Figure 7-21.—Incorrect right turn.7-19
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