Hitching and uncoupling of a tractor with a semitrailer

Strong, competent and high-quality coupling of a road train is ensured by a proven and reliable connection of its two main elements – a truck tractor and a semi-trailer. Hitching and uncoupling are the two most important procedures that are carried out before starting and ending work, as well as when changing a semitrailer.
These procedures must be performed by an experienced professional who has undergone the necessary instruction and has all the necessary skills and knowledge, including theory and practice.
If the hitch or uncoupling is not performed correctly, problems such as:

• emergency situations during movement (will require attention of the head of the enterprise and timely repair of breakdowns);
• accidents (will require the provision of necessary assistance, a call to the medical team of doctors, relevant services – DAI, Ministry of Emergencies and so on);
• fires, spills of technical liquids, loss of tightness of tanks, scattering of cargo along the road (require the use of special machinery and equipment).

The safety and reliability of the coupling and uncoupling of semi-trailers and tractors is ensured by strict compliance with all requirements, norms and standards. Only in this case, it is possible to guarantee the delivery of goods from point A to point B without any incidents.

Performance of work – general requirements

To perform the coupling procedure, the driver or his partner must be guided by special instructions and documentation that contain the following information:

• recommendations and advice on preparing for the procedure;
• requirements for persons carrying out procedures;
• ensuring safe operation;
• other information.

Employees at such events should receive appropriate training. They read the instructions and documentation, and then sign in the corresponding document.

Performer Requirements

All operations related to the operation, repair and maintenance of freight transport devices are performed by persons who have reached the age of 18 and are trained in safe work procedures. A prerequisite is an introductory, initial or repeated briefing.
Hitching and uncoupling are important procedures that require attention and concentration of the performer. Gloves, protective overalls, special shoes and other personal protective equipment are required. In addition, you will need to strictly follow all the steps and steps.

Where does the work begin

Any activities should begin with a health assessment:

• trailer trailer;
• car tractor;
• used devices, equipment, car tools.

If you find any problems and malfunctions, you should immediately notify the responsible person and proceed with their elimination (carry out repairs or maintenance of the chassis, brake system, steering, light signaling, and so on).

Requirements for the location of the procedure

Before hitching / uncoupling, put the tractor and semitrailer on a flat surface. In this case, the longitudinal axis on them must coincide. The semitrailer is braked by a parking brake, antiretractable stops are placed under its wheels. The drawbar without supporting springs must be mounted on a special support.
All connecting hoses, the wiring system are checked (all wires must be removed and secured), the sides of the semitrailer are closed and fixed.
The tractor moves in reverse to the semitrailer, while making sure that there are no outsiders in the danger zone. It is located between the tractor and trailer only after putting the tractor on the parking brake and turning off the engine. The gearshift lever is in the “neutral” position.

Hitching

The procedure includes:

• adjusting the fifth wheel coupling (check for damage, lubricate if necessary, set to the hook position);
• checking the semi-trailer (inspection of the chain pin, load securing, parking brake);
• proper setting of the truck;
• hitch height adjustment, alignment of the saddle and kingpin in one axis;
• pneumatic system connection;
• checking the performance of the brake system (with the engine turned off);
• connecting the electrical system and electronics, checking the operation of headlights, turn signals;
• raising and fixing the legs of the support.

Hitching and uncoupling is ideally carried out by two people, however, in special situations, when there are no other options, this procedure can be performed by only one driver.
It is very important to conduct an assessment of its condition immediately before the departure of the road train. It is necessary to check the air pressure, oil pressure, the sound and light signals. Also checked the operation of washers, braking systems, electrics. Must have a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher.
It is necessary to assess the condition of the wheels and the tread, to check the reliability of the fifth wheel coupling. Do not forget to clean and wipe the dirt of headlights, lights and turn signals.

Uncoupling

The uncoupling procedure is performed in the reverse order. To do this, the tractor and semitrailer are exposed on a suitable flat platform, after which the following measures are carried out:

• setting the semitrailer on the parking brake;
• lowering the rollers, raising the semitrailer until the load is completely removed from the saddle;
• closing uncoupling taps;
• disconnection of electric wires and cables, pneumatic systems;
• inclusion of back light on a tractor;
• turning the self-release fuse (the lever is moved to the extreme forward position until it stops);
• the tractor moves forward evenly.

Remember that only competent and correct execution of hitching and uncoupling operations ensures the safety and durability of any vehicle. All routine procedures must be carried out accurately and correctly; you cannot skip a single paragraph of the instruction.
It is imperative to carry out regular technical inspections with the replacement of working fluids and worn elements. Such procedures should be performed “automatically” – over time, they will become a habit and will not cause any difficulties.