BumpertoBumper the Complete Guide to TractorTrailer Operations Coupling

Bumper-to-Bumper, the Complete Guide to Tractor-Trailer Operations Coupling and Uncoupling Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc. 1

Introduction l This topic includes information on: – pre-coupling – horizontal and vertical alignment – coupling and uncoupling procedures. Common problems associated with coupling and uncoupling are introduced. l Possible solutions are provided. l 2 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Overview On completing this lesson, you will be able to: State what connections should be made when connecting a tractor to a trailer. l Outline the pre-coupling procedures for a tractor and trailer. l 3 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Overview On completing this lesson, you will be able to: l Describe the step by step procedure for making the connection. Include steps for aligning the tractor horizontally and vertically with the trailer. 4 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Overview On completing this lesson, you will be able to: Describe the procedures for uncoupling the tractor from the trailer. l State the importance of safety and how to couple and uncouple safely. l 5 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Connecting the Tractor and the Trailer l Tractor to trailer connections include connecting the kingpin to the fifth wheel and connecting the tractor’s air and electrical system to the trailer’s air and electrical system. 6 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Pre-Coupling Procedures Look for anything in your path that could damage the tractor or trailer. l Chock the trailer tires at the rear. l 7 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor Back the tractor up to the trailer so the coupling assemblies connect without moving the trailer backwards. l Place the tractor so the trailer kingpin is as near to center of the fifth wheel as possible. l Follow the procedures step by step every time. l 8 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor l Know the width of the tractor as compared to the width of the trailer. 9 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor 10 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor l Horizontal Alignment – To align the tractor horizontally with the trailer, approach the trailer from the right. – Steer away from the front of the trailer. – The corners of the trailer will appear evenly in the mirrors. 11 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor l Horizontal Alignment – Adjust your position as you back up to align the fifth wheel with the kingpin. – Stop when the rear of the tractor is about five feet from the front of the trailer. – Inspect the area around the trailer and tractor. – Check the alignment of the fifth wheel with the kingpin. 12 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor 13 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor l Vertical Alignment – To vertically align the trailer with the tractor, raise or lower the trailer to the fifth wheel level. – Secure the crank handle and inspect the fifth wheel. 14 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor 15 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor l Making the Connection – To make the connection: Connect the air supply lines. l Charge the trailer air supply. l Back up until the tractor comes into contact with the trailer. l 16 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor 17 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor l Making the Connection – To make the connection: Check the connection by pulling forward slowly. The tractor should not move. l See that the fifth wheel locking jaw is closed around the trailer kingpin. l Connect the single electrical supply cable (pigtail) to the trailer. l 18 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning and Connecting the Tractor l Making the Connection – To make the connection: Make sure the lights are working. l Check the inflation of your tires. l Look for worn hoses or loose connections in the air system. l Remove any tire chocks. l Try pulling forward slowly. l 19 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Aligning the Tractor 20 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Uncoupling Procedures Set the parking brakes. l Lower the landing gear. l Disengage the fifth wheel locking mechanism. l Disconnect the air supply lines and electrical cable from the trailer. l Pull away from the trailer. l 21 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Uncoupling Procedures 22 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Safety Precautions l Always take safety precautions. – Inspect the area for safety hazards. – Do not cut corners and GO SLOW. 23 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Test Your Knowledge What connections must be made when connecting a tractor to a trailer? l What are the pre-coupling procedures for a tractor and trailer? l What is the step by step procedure for making the connection? l 24 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Test Your Knowledge What is the step-by-step procedure for uncoupling the tractor from the trailer? l How can a driver ensure safety when coupling and uncoupling? l 25 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Observation Skills Test 26 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Summary Connecting the tractor and the trailer l Pre-coupling procedures l Aligning the tractor l Uncoupling procedures l Safety precautions l 27 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.

Where to Get More Information l Bumper to Bumper, the Complete Guide to Tractor-Trailer Operations, Chapter 15 28 Copyright 2004 by Mike Byrnes & Assoc. , Inc.