TM 5-3895-383-10
Operation Section
4-47
Towing Information
Towing Information
Towing the Machine
SMCS Code: 7000
Improper hookup and towing is dangerous and
could result in injury or death to yourself or others.
The towing connection must be rigid, or towing
must be done by two machines of the same size or
larger than the towed machine. Connect a machine
on each end of the towed machine.
Be sure that all necessary repairs and adjustments
have been made before a machine that has been
towed to a service area, is put back into operation.
These towing instructions are for moving a disabled
machine for a short distance at low speed. Move the
machine at a speed of 2 km/h (1.2 mph) or less to a
convenient location for repair. These instructions are
only for emergencies. Always haul the machine if long
distance moving is required.
Shielding must be provided on both machines. This will
protect the operator if the tow line or the tow bar
breaks.
Do not allow an operator to be on the machine that is
being towed unless the operator can control the
steering and/or the braking.
Before towing, make sure that the tow line or the tow
bar is in good condition. Make sure that the tow line or
the tow bar has enough strength for the towing
procedure that is involved. The strength of the towing
line or of the tow bar should be at least 150 percent of
the gross weight of the towing machine. This is true for
a disabled machine that is stuck in the mud and for
towing on a grade.
Keep the tow line angle to a minimum. Do not exceed
a 30 degree angle from the straight ahead position.
Quick machine movement could overload the tow line
or the tow bar. This could cause the tow line or the tow
bar to break. Gradual, steady machine movement will
be more effective.
Normally, the towing machine should be as large as
the disabled machine. Make sure that the towing
machine has enough brake capacity, enough weight,
and enough power. The towing machine must be able
to control both machines for the grade that is involved
and for the distance that is involved.
You must provide sufficient control and sufficient
braking when you are moving a disabled machine
downhill. This may require a larger towing machine or
additional machines that are connected to the rear.
This will prevent the machine from rolling away out of
control.
All situation requirements cannot be listed. Minimal
towing machine capacity is required on smooth, level
surfaces. On inclines in poor condition or on surfaces
in poor condition, maximum towing machine capacity is
required.
Attach the towing device and the machine before you
release the brakes.
Consult your Caterpillar dealer for towing a disabled
machine.
Running Engine
If the engine is running, the machine can be towed for
a short distance under certain conditions. The power
train and the steering system must be operable.
The operator must steer the machine that is towed in
the direction of the tow line.
Ensure that all instructions in this section are followed
carefully. Ensure that all instructions in this section are
followed exactly.
Stopped Engine
Shutting off the engine will result in the loss of
machine steering.
When the engine is stopped, additional steps may be
required before the machine is towed. In order to avoid
damaging the power train, the steering system, and the
brakes, which may be inoperable, additional steps may
be required.
