OM3012.1 Operation - Section 3 Operating Instructions Page 3-1 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS PREPARING FOR OPERATION At The Truck - Ground Level Walk Around Inspection The safest trucks are those which have been properly prepared for operation. At the beginning of each shift, a careful check of the truck should be made before the operator attempts engine start-up. At the beginning of each shift, a careful walk around inspection of the truck should be made before the operator attempts engine start-up. A walk around in- spection is a systematic ground level inspection of the truck and its components to insure that the truck is safe to operate before entering the operator’s cab. 1.
When walking to and from the truck, BE ALERT, remain a safe distance from all other machines even if the operator is visible. 2. Check for any oil or coolant leaks. When checking coolant in radiator, relieve pressure slowly before removing radiator cap. Start at the left front corner of the truck (see illustration, next page), and move in a counter-clockwise direction, front-to-rear, across the rear, and continuing forward up the opposite side of the truck to the original starting point. If these steps are taken in sequence, and are repeated from the same point and in the same direction before every shift, many potential problems may be avoided.
If engine has been running, allow coolant to cool, before removing the fill cap or draining radiator. Serious burns may result if coolant is not allowed to cool. If problems or potential problems are found during the "walk-around", be sure to notify maintenance. Vehicle breakdowns and UNSCHEDULED downtime and loss of production can be reduced. 3. Check tires for cuts, damage or "bubbles". Check tires for low pressure periodically during shift. If truck has been run on a "flat", the tire must be cooled before parking truck inside .
Local work practices may prevent an operator from performing all tasks suggested here, but to the extent permitted, the operator should follow this or similar routine. 4. Visually inspect all headlights, worklights and tail- lights and safety equipment for external damage from rocks or misuse. Make sure lenses are clean. 1. Start at left front of truck (see illustration, next page). While performing the walk around inspec- tion, visually inspect all lights and safety equip- ment for external damage from rocks or misuse. Make sure lenses are clean and unbroken. 5. Always use handrails and ladder when mounting or dismounting the truck.
Clean ladder and hand- rails of any foreign material, such as ice, snow, oil and mud. 2. Move behind the front of the left front tire, inspect the hub and brake assemblies for leaks and any abnormal conditions. Check that all suspension attaching hardware (including the splined nut under the spindle) is secure, and inspect for evidence of wear. Check that the suspension extension (exposed piston rod) is correct, and that there are no leaks. Always mount and dismount the truck facing the truck. Never attempt to mount or dismount the truck while it is in motion. 3. With engine stopped, check engine oil level. Check that the engine oil filters or oil lines to filters are not leaking. 6.
Dirt or trash buildup, specifically in the operator’s cab, should be cleared. Do not carry tools or supplies in cab of truck or on the deck. Check air cleaner indicator. If the RED area is showing in the indicator, the air filter must be cleaned/replaced before operating truck. 7. Insure steering wheel, controls and pedals are free of any oil, grease or mud. 4. Inspect fan and air conditioner belts for correct tension, obvious wear, and tracking. Inspect fan guard for security and condition. 8. Insure adequate ventilation before start-up if the truck is in an enclosure. Exhaust fumes are dan- gerous!