TM 9-2330-392-14&P
2-11 TOWING INSTRUCTIONS.
NOTE
Refer to FM 21-305 for further information on proper towing practices.
a. Driving.
Sudden stops may cause drawbar to bend or buckle and may cause damage to hydraulic
brake actuator assembly.
(1)
When the trailer is coupled, always start and stop the towed load slowly and gradually. Do this
whether or not the trailer is loaded.
(2)
When driving a vehicle towing a trailer with a hydraulic brake actuator assembly, sudden and
fast deceleration will cause the trailer hydraulic brakes to be applied.
(3)
Never exceed the maximum speed of 55 mph (88.5 km/h) highway or 20 mph (32.2 km/h) cross-
country.
(4)
When driving the towing vehicle and trailer, the overall length of the unit must be kept in mind
when turning and passing other vehicles. Because the unit is hinged in the middle, turning and
backing are also affected. Heavier payloads will increase stopping distance and decrease off-
road maneuverability.
b. Turning.
Tight turns may cause damage to hydraulic brake actuator assembly.
(1)
When turning comers, allow for the fact that the trailer wheels may turn inside the turning
radius of the towing vehicle.
(2)
To make a right turn at an intersection, drive the towing vehicle partway into the intersection,
then cut sharply to the right. This will allow for the turning radius of the trailer to keep its
wheels off the curb.
c. Backing.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Always back the towing vehicle slowly and gradually.
Whenever possible, use an assistant driver or another person to act as a ground guide.
Adjust all towing vehicle rearview mirrors before backing.
When backing, the rear of the trailer will move in the opposite direction in which the towing
vehicle is turned. When the towing vehicle is turned to the right, the rear of the trailer will go
left. When the towing vehicle is turned and backing in a straight line is required, turn the tow-
ing vehicle in the direction the trailer is moving. This will slowly bring the towing vehicle and
trailer into a straight line.
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