CHAPTER 7
TRACTOR-TRAILERS AND
Tractor-trailers and dump trucks are used to haul
equipment, construction supplies, and materials used to
support construction operations, disaster recovery
operations, the preventive maintenance program, and so
forth. This chapter covers the basic principles of
tractor-trailer and dump truck operations.
TRACTOR-TRAILERS
Thousands of miles of tractor-trailer operations are
generated during a deployment. These operations
include the hauling of equipment and construction
supplies in support of NMCB/NCF tasking. You, as an
operator, must remember that when tractor-trailers are
on the open road, they represent the U.S. Navy and the
Seabees to the public.
The tractor, technically known as a truck-tractor,
may have a gasoline- or diesel-powered engine, be
equipped with an automatic or manual transmission, and
range in capacity from 5 tons through 25 tons. Some
examples are shown in figure 7-1.
NOTE: Because of the variety of transmission
types in truck-tractors used by the NCF, it is important
that you study the operators manual before operating a
certain model of truck-tractor. The operator manuals are
located in the Technical Library.
Operators errors, such as grinding gears while
shifting, clutch slipping, rapid engagement during
shifting, improper downshifting, and so forth, often
cause premature failure of drive-line components,
resulting in needless downtime and delays in
production.
TYPES OF TRAILERS
The NCF uses a variety of trailers to support the
mission of the NMCB. Before using any trailer, know
all safety precautions, and check the manufacturers
recommendations for loading requirements, and weight
restrictions. This is important because the OPERATOR
IS RESPONSIBLE for the safe loading, securing, and
operation of the tractor-trailer.
7-1
DUMP TRUCKS
Figure 7-1.Truck-tractors.