TM 9-2510-247-13&P
TRANSPORTING LOADS
1. General
a. The 250M Fifth Wheel Towing Device, with its prime mover, will have different operational
characteristics based on gross weight, differences between loaded and unloaded weight and
suspension characteristics. Safe operating limits are affected by the interaction of the vehicle
characteristics, load, road surface, weather, driver skill, and vehicle speed.
b. Before operating the towing device, ensure that all the operating procedures contained in this
manual have been read and fully understood.
c.
The 250M Fifth Wheel Towing Device, when coupled to a prime mover and loaded, acts in
the same manner as a trailer. All precautions contained in prime movers operating instructions in
reference to towing a trailer apply to the fifth wheel towing device.
d. The batteries on the fifth wheel towing device will run low during extended operation of the
strobe lights and must be recharged by connecting the 24-volt NATO slave cable to the
IVEC connector and allowing the prime mover to idle for an extended period of time.
WARNING
Prior to transporting loads, ensure the transport leg assembly is
locked in the vertical position or the handle may swing free and
cause injury or death to personnel.
2. Pre-Trip Inspection. Certain items should be inspected prior to each trip. Appropriate procedures
for services and PMCS (WP 0031) will be completed prior to operating the 250M Fifth
Wheel Towing Device.
3. Driving.
a. General. When driving the prime mover and towing device with attached vehicle, the overall
length must be kept in mind, both when passing other vehicles and when turning. Because
the unit pivots at the fifth wheel, backing is also affected.
CAUTION
Never travel with the fifth wheel towing device boom in the vertical
position. Failure to comply may cause damage to equipment.
b. Road Surfaces. Uneven terrain, steep grades, crowned roads, and unimproved road `
surfaces can introduce forces that will make handling difficult. Even a vehicle that is properly
maintained and loaded can be hazardous when excessive speed and certain road conditions
are combined.
Grades. Operations on grades requires caution. Use the same gear in descending a long
c.
grade as when ascending. Gear selection should be made before descending a grade to
minimize the chance of a missed shift. Avoid excessive use of brakes on long down grades in
order to maintain air pressure and prevent overheating of the brakes.
d. Side Slopes. This device is not recommended to be loaded on an excessisve side slope.
The towing device can be safely operated, with or without payloads, on side slopes
commonly encountered on highways or unimproved roads.
0017 00-1
