Loading/Unloading. Midland End Dump Trailer

4.10 LOADING/UNLOADING

It is the responsibility of the operator to review and be familiar with the trailer loading capacity specifications and be sure that you comply with any and all load limitations or restrictions applicable in the jurisdictions where you will be travelling. Exceeding the trailer weight specifications can result in damage to the structure and voids the manufacturer's warranty. Exceeding the road restrictions is illegal.

Loading/unloading procedures and instructions are covered but not limited to those summarized below:

A. Loading

1. Clear the area of bystanders and remove debris from loading area.

2. Position the trailer as required and set park brake before dismounting.

3. Be sure end gate is closed and latched.

4. Minimize the drop height when loading.

a. Position the loading equipment as close to the bottom of the trailer as possible.

b. Do not load trailer unless hooked to towing unit.

5. Do not drop large dense objects into the trailer as they can damage the structure.

6. Distribute the material evenly from sideto-side and front-to-rear during loading to equalize the structural and axle loading during transport.

7. Re-inflate the air bags if they were exhausted for loading, this applies only to an End Dump; if the End Dump is a part of a Side Dump/End

Dump train the Side Dump suspension should remain inflated throughout the loading process.

8. Secure the trailer cover as required.

Fig. 17 COVER

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B. Unloading

Extra care must be taken by the operator when unloading or dumping the trailer. These special instructions include but are not limited to:

1. Clear the area of bystanders and remove debris from unloading area.

2. Use the chain on the gate to set gate opening width.

NOTE

Always set both chains the same length to prevent gate bending. Count the links to be sure.

3. Open or remove the tarp if so equipped.

4. Proceed to the unloading area.

5. Use toggle switch in the cab to release the gate latch. Be sure gate latches are released before raising trailer body.

Fig. 18 CHAIN

IMPORTANT

Use care when applying brakes, while backing up a trailer equipped with an Air-Ride suspension system. When applying the brakes aggressively, the axle dynamics can result in the air spring over-extension and can cause component damage.

No damage will occur with slow speeds and gradual braking.

Fig. 19 LATCH RELEASED

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4.10 LOADING/UNLOADING (cont'd)

B. Unloading (cont'd)

6. Direct the flow of oil to the cylinder to raise the trailer.

7. On the Quarter frame model, be sure the fifth wheel stabilizer package has been installed under the fifth wheel.

8. Do not attempt to unload in high wind conditions.

Strong side or shifting winds can blow the unit over when it is raised.

9. Do not allow persons or equipment to enter area where they might be endangered if trailer should upset while dumping.

Fig. 20 FIFTH WHEEL PACKAGE

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10. Do not raise body where overhead obstructions may exist. Stay away from power lines. Remember electrocution can occur without direct contact.

11. move trailer unless body is in fully lowered position. Engage latch only when the body is in its fully lowered position.

12. Do not attempt, under any conditions, to work on or service a trailer with the body in a raised position, unless body is empty and properly braced and propped so it cannot fall.

13. Do not park trailer with the body in the raised position.

14. Do not use the cylinder as a stabilizer during the dump cycle. The cylinder is strictly a lifting device and is not a

Fig. 21 LATCH ENGAGED structural member of the dumping unit.

15. Do not jerk or slingshot the dump unit in an attempt to free a sticking or frozen load.

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4.10 LOADING/UNLOADING (cont'd)

B. Unloading (cont'd)

16. Have tractor and trailer in a straight line on FIRM, LEVEL ground with all tires in contact with the ground when dumping.

IMPORTANT

All axles and tires must be well supported on a firm, level base prior to raising the box. If they are not well supported, the box can tip and/or the frame can bend. This is particularly important for triaxles.

17. Have tractor and trailer securely braked before using hoist except for 1/4 Frame End Dump; where the tractor only or the trailer only must be securely braked.

18. Release tailgate before starting dump cycle.

19. Stay at controls while dumping or lowering body. Lower body immediately if shifting or leaning occurs during dump cycle.

20. Feather the dump unit down slowly to avoid a high-pressure build up in the cylinder when lowering a load that is sticking.

21. Inspect trailer to assure safe operation as often as a prudent person would deem necessary but in no case less than daily when in operation.

22. Know the characteristics of the material being handled. Never enter the trailer if toxic material is being handled.

Quarter Frame

Straight Frame

34 Fig. 22 UNLOADING

Roads