Midland SIDE DUMP GRAVEL TRAILER Operator's Manual page 25

4.3 BREAK-IN (cont'd)
6. Suspension
A suspension system connects the axles to the
frame. All fasteners must be maintained at their
specified torque to ensure that all clamping and
anchoring forces remain intact. If these forces
are not maintained, components can shift or
move and affect the performance and component
life. Refer to Maintenance Section for the list
of required torque values for all fasteners in
suspension system. Any loosening can lead
to component shifting, misalignment and/or
twisting. Any of these items can cause erratic
handling, broken components or rapid tire wear.
Always tighten the nut end of fastener. Specified
torque values apply only to nut end torquing.
7. Axle Alignment
Axle alignment is properly set at the factory
when the unit is new and will remain aligned
unless fasteners loosen or components wear.
Use a steel measuring tape to check the
alignment. Refer to Maintenance Section for
alignment checking procedure. Axles that are
out of alignment can cause erratic handling
characteristics, broken components and
accelerated tire wear.
8. Fifth Wheel Assembly Components
The king pin, upper and lower fifth wheel
assemblies must be inspected to check for
mechanical integrity of all components. All
components and systems must be kept in good
condition to safely and reliably transmit the
accelerating, braking and side loads between the
trailer, fifth wheel and towing vehicle.
a. King Pin:
Check the king pin for cracks, chips, or
whether it is bent. Check that there are no
cracks or distortions between the king pin
and its anchor plate before resuming work.
b. Fifth Wheel Assembley:
The fifth wheel assembly consists of the king
pin locking mechanism, surface plate, frame,
pivot and anchor system. Check that the king
pin locking mechanism locks and unlocks
easily and that all moving surfaces are coated
with grease. Check that the surface plate is
clean and coated with grease.
Check the surface plate, pivot and anchor
frame for cracks, bends or distortions.
Replace any damaged components. Retorque
fasteners to maintain the proper clamping
forces on all components to move or bend
and create mechanical or safety problems
during operation.
9. Electrical and Air Lines
Electrical and air lines extend from the front of the
unit to each light and air operated component.
Although they are all anchored along their routing
pathways from the factory, they occasionally do
come loose and will sag. Inspect all electrical
and air lines. Use plastic ties to secure line to
frame if any are loose and sag. Replace if any
are pinched, kinked, cut or abraded. Extra care
should be taken in cold or extreme operating
conditions. Ice, mud or brush can pull lines loose
from their anchors and cause damage. Clean
components, repair damage, re-anchor and
install protectors if appropriate. Do not operate
with damaged components.
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