TM 5-3800-205-10-2
OPERATION UNDER USUAL CONDITIONS - CONTINUED
0005 00
OPERATE SKID STEERING (TRACTOR SECTIONALIZED)
1.
Skid steering is used to steer tractor after it has been sectionalized, in preparation for external air transport by CH-47
helicopter.
a.
Skid steering is enabled when electrical disconnect is made between tractor and water distributor during sectional-
ization.
b.
It is disabled after electrical connection is made between tractor and water distributor, during assembly of machine.
2.
To operate skid steering, perform the following:
a.
Push skid steer control lever to right to turn right.
b.
Pull control to left to turn left.
c.
Control will return to center position automatically.
OPERATE MACHINE
WARNING
BE ALERT for personnel in the area while operating machine. Always check to ensure area is clear of
personnel and obstructions before starting engine, moving machine or lowering or raising water distrib-
utor tank. Failure to follow this warning may result in serious injury or death to personnel or damage to
equipment.
DO NOT allow riders on the machine. Failure to follow this warning may result in serious injury or
death to personnel.
Transport by C-130 aircraft, CH-47 helicopter, OCONUS rail, and some over-the-road transport
requires removal of ROPS/FOPS and temporary operation of machine without ROPS/FOPS. Avoid all
operations that may tip machine. Failure to follow this warning may result in serious injury or death to
personnel.
General Information.
1.
a.
Make sure that personnel are clear of machine before starting engine, moving out or before lowering or raising
tank.
b.
Keep machine under control at all times. Do NOT coast.
c.
Avoid driving close to edge of excavations, overhangs, cliffs, etc.
d.
Avoid operating machine on a side slope. When possible, operate up and down slopes. Maximum side slope oper-
ation (1st gear forward and reverse) +/- 20% loaded or 35% side slope empty.
e.
Reduce engine speed when maneuvering in tight quarters or when going over a hill. Slow down to negotiate
ditches, potholes, bumps or any other unexpected obstructions.
f.
Select appropriate travel speed before driving downhill. Select same gear speed as would be used to travel uphill.
Do NOT downshift while going downhill; downshift before starting downhill. Do not allow machine to overspeed
when going downhill. Apply service brakes.
g.
Never straddle a concertina wire or wire rope cable. Avoid any wire or debris that could become tangled in
machine.
h.
Follow these guidelines when operating in soft soil conditions:
(1)
Before operating in soft soil conditions, check out site to evaluate its condition. If it appears too soft for
even an initial pass with an empty machine, do not enter area. Notify your supervisor.
(2)
If site appears to be OK, make an initial pass with an empty machine.
(3)
During operation, observe ground conditions. Look for cracking that may appear adjacent to the wheels.
0005 00-7
