When the machine must be moved either to a different job site, or because of damage, failure or any other reason, consideration must be given to the reason for moving, the method to be used, machine preparation problems and other factors involved in moving heavy equipment. The following information points out some of the more important factors which should be considered to prevent excessive wear or possible damage when moving the machine.
Be sure to comply with all laws governing the movement of this type of equipment. Interstate Commerce Commission and U.S. Coast Guard regulations concerning the transportation of gases under pressure apply to the brake accumulator cylinder. See the topic, BRAKES. State laws concerning size, weight, speeds, etc. may vary between states and must be checked for the specific area.
When the machine is transported by hauling on another vehicle, be sure it is securely blocked and restrained. Raised equipment should be lowered and blocked so it is well supported, and the engine stopped.
When transporting machine long distances the parking brake should be released and the control lever wired in the brake released position. If the parking brake is applied, sudden stops or starts of the transporting vehicle may cause damage to the parking brake and/or power train. The accelerator, wired in the shutoff position, is an added precaution against accidental or unauthorized starting of the machine during shipment.
Tire inflation pressures for transporting are shown in the topic, TIRES. These pressures are to be used when driving or towing the machine long distances. Do not travel more than 15 miles in any one clock hour. Stop every 45 road miles or every 3 hours to inspect the machine. This will also permit brakes, bearings and other parts to cool. Where extra tread or special tires, or tires weighted with a dry powder ballast are used, consult your local tire dealer for drive away inflation pressures and maximum speed limitation.
It is not desirable to tow the machine long distances on the highway. If the machine is to be towed a short distance, such as into a maintenance area, and there is no failure which will cause damage, this may be accomplished without extensive preparation if appropriate precautions are taken regarding steering and braking. For towing longer distances, or if an internal failure has occurred, the following steps should be observed.
- 1. Remove the axle shafts if an internal failure has occurred or if the machine is towed more than a few miles. This step may prevent extensive damage and save hundreds of dollars in parts and down time.
- 2. If the machine is to be towed without an operator in the seat to "follow" the steering, disconnect the steering follow-up linkage and change the hydraulic steering hose connections so the steering cylinders can move freely.
To change the steering hose connections for towing, disconnect the hoses (2) and (4) from the hydraulic lines (1) and (3). Connect the hose (2) to the line (3) and connect the hose (4) to the line (1), using additional fittings or hose as required.
HYDRAULIC STEERING CONNECTIONS FOR TOWING
1-Hydraulic line. 2-Hose. 3-Hydraulic line. 4-Hose.
Safety Rod: A safety rod is provided on the right side of the rear frame. Whenever the machine is to be transported on another vehicle, either or both ends of machine lifted from the ground or service work is being performed about the center of the machine, the safety rod should be installed. When installed, the safety rod (2) connects the front (3) and rear (1) frames and will hold the machine in a straight ahead position.
Before operating and when operating, the safety rod (2) must be pinned to the retaining plate (4) welded on the rear frame as shown.