OM3023 10/00 Operation - Section 3 Operating Instructions Page 3-1 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS PREPARING FOR OPERATION Local work practices may prevent an operator from performing all tasks suggested here, but to the extent permitted, personnel should follow this or similar rou- tine. The safest trucks are those which have been prop- erly prepared for operation. At the beginning of each shift, a careful check of the truck should be made by the operator before attempting to start the engine. Vehicle breakdowns and UNSCHEDULED down- time and loss of production can be reduced. 1. Start at left front of truck (see illustration, next page).
While performing the walk around inspection, visually inspect all lights and safety equipment for external damage from rocks or misuse. Ensure lenses are clean and intact. 2. Move behind the front of the left front tire, inspect the hub and brake assemblies for leaks and any abnormal conditions. Locate air system expansion tank drain valve mounted on steering tubes, left frame rail and exhaust moisture by pulling chain toward tire. Check that all suspen- sion attaching hardware is secure and inspect for evidence of wear. Check that the suspension extension (exposed piston rod) is correct, and that there are no leaks. 3.
Inspect fan and air conditioner belts for correct tension, obvious wear, and tracking. Inspect fan guard for security and condition. 4. Look overhead at bottom of cab and check for steering control valve or hose leakage. 5. Move outward from the front wheel, and inspect attaching lugs/wedges to be sure all are tight and complete. Check tires for cuts, damage or “bubbles”. Check for proper inflation. 6. Move behind the rear of the front wheel, inspect for leaks at hub or brakes or any unusual condi- tions. Inspect suspension hardware to be sure it is all in place. Inspect the tie-rod pivots and steering cylinder for proper greasing, and for security of all parts. Check for hydraulic leaks. 7.
Check pumps on front of transmission for leak- age and that all parts are secure. Check the transmission filter for leaks. 8. Inspect sight glass for transmission oil level. With engine stopped, hydraulic fluid should be between the upper two marks. (Refer to decal on transmission oil pan.) Notify mainte- nance if oil appears to be low. SAFETY IS THINKING AHEAD Prevention is the best safety program. Prevent a potential accident by knowing the employer's safety requirements and all necessary job site regulations, as well as use and care of the safety equipment on the truck. Only qualified operators or technicians should attempt to operate or maintain the truck.
Safe practices start before the operator gets to the equipment! Wear the proper clothing. Loose fitting clothing, unbuttoned sleeves and jackets, jewelry, etc., can catch on a protrusion and cause a potential hazard. Always use the personal safety equipment provided for the operator such as hard hat, safety shoes, safety glasses or goggles. There are some conditions when protective hearing devices should also be worn for operator safety. When walking to and from the truck, maintain a safe distance from all machines even if the operator is visible.
At The Truck - Ground Level Walk Around Inspec- tion 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 inspection 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. Start at the left front corner of the truck (see illustra- tion, next page), and move in a counter-clockwise direction, front-to-rear, across the rear, and continu- ing 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 poten- tial problems may be avoided. Notify maintenance of any problems or potential problems found during the “walk-around inspec- tion”.