CHAPTER 7TRACTOR-TRAILERS ANDTractor-trailers and dump trucks are used to haulequipment, construction supplies, and materials used tosupport construction operations, disaster recoveryoperations, the preventive maintenance program, and soforth. This chapter covers the basic principles oftractor-trailer and dump truck operations.TRACTOR-TRAILERSThousands of miles of tractor-trailer operations aregenerated during a deployment. These operationsinclude the hauling of equipment and constructionsupplies in support of NMCB/NCF tasking. You, as anoperator, must remember that when tractor-trailers areon the open road, they represent the U.S. Navy and theSeabees to the public.The tractor, technically known as a truck-tractor,may have a gasoline- or diesel-powered engine, beequipped with an automatic or manual transmission, andrange in capacity from 5 tons through 25 tons. Someexamples are shown in figure 7-1.NOTE: Because of the variety of transmissiontypes in truck-tractors used by the NCF, it is importantthat you study the operator’s manual before operating acertain model of truck-tractor. The operator manuals arelocated in the Technical Library.Operator’s errors, such as grinding gears whileshifting, clutch slipping, rapid engagement duringshifting, improper downshifting, and so forth, oftencause premature failure of drive-line components,resulting in needless downtime and delays inproduction.TYPES OF TRAILERSThe NCF uses a variety of trailers to support themission of the NMCB. Before using any trailer, knowall safety precautions, and check the manufacturer’srecommendations for loading requirements, and weightrestrictions. This is important because the OPERATORIS RESPONSIBLE for the safe loading, securing, andoperation of the tractor-trailer.7-1DUMP TRUCKSFigure 7-1.—Truck-tractors.
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