Figure 10-4.-Grader frame.Figure 10-5.—Front axle.engine with articulating controlled by a pair of hydrauliccylinders. The articulated frame steering allows for anincrease in productivity and stability. The articulatedframe has a shorter turning radius than the conventionalgrader (fig. 10-3). This allows for easier maneuveringin close quarters and quick turnaround at the end of apass and enables the grader to carry a full blade ofmaterial around a curve. Crab steering helpscompensate for side drift when turning a windrow, keepstandems on a firm footing when clearing ditches, andincreases stability on side slope work.NOTE: Before articulating the grader, be aware ofthe position of the grader blade. With the blade angledin an acute position, articulating the grader sharply canposition the rear tires to run into the blade.FrameThe frame connected to the front axle extends thefull length of the grader (fig. 10-4) and is high enoughto allow space for carrying and manipulating the gradingmechanism.The front axle is compound. The lower sectioncarries the weight of the grader, oscillates on a centerpin, and is hinged to the bottom of the wheel spindle.The upper section of the axle is hinged to the top of thespindle, allowing the front wheels to lean as well as turn(fig. 10-5).MoldboardThe moldboard with the cutting edge and end bitsattached is called the blade. The blade is the working10-3
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