Great Dane Operators Manual 2022
Great Dane Operators Manual 2022
GreatDane.com
683 DMD 1122 Part No. 42101203 WARNING: This manual contains important safety information.
Read manual carefully. Keep manual with trailer at all times.
Refer to the Great Dane Maintenance Manual
before performing any repair, service or procedure.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Hazard signal words (such as Warning or Caution) appear in various locations throughout this
manual. Additional notes are used to emphasize areas of importance.
The following definitions indicate the nature of the consequences of these actions:
1
IMPORTANT
Read this manual carefully. Should you have any questions, contact the Great Dane Customer
Service Department immediately for the answers. This manual should be kept with the trailer at all
times and should remain with the trailer when it is sold. Replacement manuals Part No. 42101203
can be purchased from Great Dane authorized service parts facilities.
CONTROLLED-TEMPERATURE TRAILERS
It is important that owners and drivers of controlled-temperature trailers be well informed about the
trailers limitations and to operate such trailers within their limitations to ensure safety and profitability
of the equipment. Following are some year-around guidelines, which are applicable to controlled-
temperature trailers:
1. Do not haul frozen foods in trailer designed only to haul chilled products.
2. D
o not install a larger capacity mechanical refrigeration unit in a trailer with inadequate insulation
and hope to get the job done.
3. Match trailer insulation performance with refrigeration unit output for highest efficiency.
4. D
o not expect the trailer to act as a freezer. Products to be hauled should be loaded at a temperature
as cold as or colder than the required temperature of the products at the time of delivery.
2
COUPLING AND UNCOUPLING
Knowing how to couple and uncouple correctly is basic to the safe operation of combination
vehicles. General coupling and uncoupling steps are listed below. There are differences between
various combinations of tractors and trailers. Learn the specific details of coupling and uncoupling
the vehicles you will operate.
WARNING: Incorrect coupling and uncoupling can result in serious injury or death.
4
COUPLING continued
STEP 10: Back Under Trailer • Go under trailer and look into the back of the
• Use lowest reverse gear. fifth wheel. Make sure the fifth wheel jaws have
• Back tractor slowly under trailer to avoid hitting closed around the shank of the kingpin.
the kingpin too hard. • Check that the locking lever is in the “lock”
• Stop when the kingpin is locked into the position.
fifth wheel. • Check that the safety catch is in position over
STEP 11: Check Connection for Security locking lever. (On some fifth wheels the catch
• Raise trailer support legs slightly off ground. must be put in place by hand.)
• Pull tractor gently forward while the trailer • If the coupling is not right, do not drive the
brakes are still applied. coupled unit; get it fixed.
STEP 12: Secure Tractor-Trailer STEP 14: Connect the Electrical Cord
• Put transmission in neutral. and Check Air Lines
• Put parking brakes on. • Plug the electrical cord into the trailer and fasten
• Shut off engine and take key with you so the safety catch.
someone else will not move the tractor-trailer • Check both air lines and electrical line for signs of
while you are under it. damage. Repair or replace if necessary.
• Make sure air and electrical lines will not hit any
STEP 13: Inspect Coupling moving parts of vehicle.
• Use a flashlight if necessary.
• Make sure there is no space between upper STEP 15: Raise Trailer Support Legs
coupler and fifth wheel. If there is space, some (Landing Gear)
thing is wrong (kingpin may be on top of closed •
W ith two hands on the crank handle, carefully
fifth wheel jaws; trailer can come loose very easily). use low-gear range (if so equipped) to begin
raising the support legs. Once free of weight,
switch to the high-gear range.
5
• Raise the support legs all the way up. (Never – Check for enough clearance between rear of
drive with support legs only part way up as they tractor frame and support legs. (When tractor
may catch on railroad tracks or other things.) turns sharply it must not hit the support legs or
• After raising the support legs, properly secure their bracing.)
the crank handle. – Check that there is adequate clearance between
• With the front of the trailer supported by the the top of the tractor tires and the underside of
tractor, the trailer.
WARNING: Incorrect coupling and uncoupling can result in serious injury or death.
UNCOUPLING TRACTOR-SEMI TRAILERS The following steps will help you to uncouple safely.
STEP 1: Position Rig • Apply parking brakes while tractor is pushing
• Make sure surface of parking area can support against the kingpin. This will hold the tractor with
weight of trailer. pressure off of the locking jaws.
• Have tractor in a straight line with the trailer. STEP 3: Lower the Support Legs
(Pulling out at an angle can damage the support • Use high gear range, hold handle carefully using
legs and upper coupler.) two hands and lower the support legs until they
STEP 2: Ease Pressure on Locking Jaws make firm contact with the ground. Turn crank in
• Shut off trailer air supply to lock trailer brakes. low gear a few extra turns. This will lift some
• Ease pressure on fifth wheel locking jaws by weight off the tractor. (Do not lift trailer off the
backing up gently (this will help you release the fifth wheel). This will make it easier to unlatch
fifth wheel locking lever). fifth wheel and couple next time.
6
UNCOUPLING continued
STEP 4: Disconnect Air Lines and STEP 6: Pull Tractor Partially Clear of Trailer
Electrical Cable • Pull tractor forward until fifth wheel comes out
• Disconnect air lines from trailer. Connect air line from under the trailer.
couplers to dummy couplers at back of cab. • Stop with tractor frame under trailer (prevents
• Hang electrical cable with plug down to prevent trailer from falling to ground if support legs
moisture from entering it. should collapse or sink).
• Make sure lines are supported so they will not STEP 7: Secure Tractor
be damaged while driving the tractor. • Apply parking brake.
STEP 5: Unlock Fifth Wheel • Place transmission in neutral.
• Raise release handle lock. STEP 8: Inspect Trailer Support
• Pull the release handle to “open” position. • Make sure ground is supporting trailer.
• Keep legs and feet clear of the rear tractor • Make sure support legs are not damaged.
wheels to avoid serious injury in case the
vehicle moves. STEP 9: Pull Tractor Clear of Trailer
• Release parking brakes.
• Check and drive tractor clear.
An informative video, “Hooking Up Doubles,” showing the TMC recommended method of safely
coupling and uncoupling multiple trailers, is available ATA Customer Service 866-821-3468
or www.atabusinesssolutions.com
7
PROPER USE OF STEPS AND HANDHOLDS
Use all steps and handholds with extreme caution. Such components are subject to wear, damage and
environmental conditions. Make sure these components are firmly attached and properly maintained. If
you suspect that they are not, do not use them. If steps are wet, iced or for some reason seem to be
slippery, they must not be used.
Steps and handholds are provided on the front wall corners as part of optional vent door packages. They
should only be used for access to the vent door. They must not be used to start, inspect or maintain any
heating or cooling unit installed on the front wall of the vehicle.
On all models, no attempt should be made to secure a vent in an open position unless the
vent holdback is securely installed and functioning.
CLIMBING PRACTICES
1. Store clipboards, phones and all other objects prior to climbing. Hands must be free.
2. Face inward (toward the trailer) at all times while ascending and descending.
3. Maintain a three-point contact at all times.
4. Wear slip-resistant footwear.
8
STEPS AND HANDHOLDS continued
ACCESS FROM THE TRACTOR
If the tractor is not equipped with adequate steps, handholds and slip-resistant deck plate to the rear
of the cab, Do Not Attempt Access To The Trailer Steps From The Tractor. Use “Access From The
Ground” method. If the tractor is properly equipped with steps, handholds and a deck plate and the
tractor is coupled and locked to the trailer, it is most important that the tractor be in a partial “jackknife”
orientation. The tractor must be positioned such that the deck plate is directly beneath the lowest step.
WARNING:
1. DO NOT climb on steps not firmly attached simultaneously in a “spread-eagle” hold or
and properly maintained. stance for support.
2. DO NOT climb on steps with any item in your 7. DO NOT use an access system if wet, iced, or
hands. for any reason seems to be slippery.
3. DO NOT use a tractor not equipped with a 8. DO NOT use a trailer’s front wall access
safe, adequate climbing system to access the system to start, inspect, or maintain any
trailer’s front wall steps. heating or cooling unit.
4. DO NOT step on tires, fenders, tractor frames, 9. DO NOT climb higher than necessary to open,
or mudflap supports. secure or close the vent door.
5. DO NOT step over air and electrical lines 10. DO NOT remain on a trailer’s access system
between the tractor and the trailer. while the trailer is being coupled to or
Disconnect and properly store if necessary. uncoupled from a tractor.
6. DO NOT use any portion of the tractor in 11. DO NOT jump from the trailer to the ground.
conjunction with any portion of the trailer
9
NORMAL USE
This Great Dane trailer was designed for operation within legal highway speed limits on reasonable road
surfaces in accordance with the following:
1. This trailer was built to carry cargo within the cargo space. CAUTION! The maximum load
limitations of weight ratings shown on the indicated on the certification label may or may
certification label. These ratings, GAWR and not be a legal load on the highway you plan to
GVWR are: use.
a. The GAWR (gross axle weight rating) is the 2. This trailer will carry a total payload equal to the
structural capability of the lowest rated Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) less the
member of the running gear components: weight of the trailer. The load must be uniformly
suspension system, hubs, wheels, drums, distributed, or it must be uniformly distributed
rims, bearings, brakes, axles, or tires. except for up to 25,000 pounds that must be
b. The GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is the evenly distributed in any 10 linear feet of trailer
structural capability of the trailer when length. Recommended payload distributions are
supported by the upper coupler and axles with shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3.
the load uniformly distributed throughout the
continued
WARNING: Walk carefully in the trailer. The floor may be slippery. Enter and leave only
from a dock as high as the floor or by means of a substantial ladder. Advise
others of these precautions.
CAUTION: Operation of the trailer outside the limitations of this manual is against
federal law and Great Dane design criteria. Any operation exceeding the
limitations stated will void any responsibility of Great Dane for the results.
10
NORMAL USE continued
3. NOTE: Exceptions to the above are meat rail Regulation, Subpart 1 – Protection Against
trailers. For the maximum allowable suspended Shifting or Falling Cargo:
load, see the vehicle certification label. Section 393.100 -393.114 General Rules for
4. The cargo should be properly loaded, blocked, protection against shifting or falling cargo —
and braced to prevent load shifts and to comply including front end structure.
with the following sections of the Department of Section 393.116 -393.136 Rules for specific
Transportation Federal Motor Carriers Safety types of cargo or loads.
11
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
12
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FOR VAN TRAILERS
FIGURE 1
13
WARNING:
LOADING
1. LOAD HINDQUARTERS AND FOREQUARTERS IN SEPARATE GROUPS.
2. PACK SUSPENDED MEAT CUTS TIGHTLY TOGETHER AND TIGHTLY AGAINST WALLS TO MINIMIZE
CARGO MOVEMENT.
3. USE LONG MEAT HOOKS AND DOUBLE HOOKING WHERE POSSIBLE TO LOWER LOAD CENTER
OF GRAVITY. KEEP VERTICAL SPACE BETWEEN TRAILER FLOOR AND BOTTOM OF MEAT CUTS TO
A MINIMUM.
4. BALANCE WEIGHT OF SUSPENDED MEAT CUTS EVENLY FROM SIDE TO SIDE TO KEEP LOAD
CENTER OF GRAVITY OVER CENTER OF TRAILER.
5. DO NOT OVERLOAD TRAILER. SEE CERTIFICATION PLATE FOR GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING
(GVWR) AND GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING (GAWR).
6. MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE SUSPENDED LOAD, INCLUDING HOOKS, IS 40,000 LBS (18,144 KG)
UNIFORMLY DISTRIBUTED, NOT TO EXCEED 833 LBS (378 KG) FOR EACH FOOT OF TRAILER
LENGTH.
14
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FOR VAN TRAILERS continued
Loading heavy concentrated loads not occupying full trailer floor area
FIGURE 3
WRONG WRONG
CORRECT CORRECT
15
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
16
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FOR PLATFORM TRAILERS
FIGURE 1
17
Loading heavy concentrated loads not occupying full trailer floor area
FIGURE 3
WRONG WRONG
CORRECT CORRECT
18
EXTENDING AND CLOSING EXTENDABLE TRAILERS
TO EXTEND THE TRAILER: 4. Back the tractor until the locking pins are just
1. Charge the brake system short of the desired locking hole.
2. Apply the trailer brakes. 5. Operate the handle on the locking pin actuator
3. Operate the handle on the locking pin actuator to move the pins into the locking position. On
to retract the locking pins or apply air to third newer trailers, pins are moved into locking
gladhand, depending on age of trailer. position by returning the gladhand to the
4. Pull the tractor ahead until the locking pins are normal position, reversing what was done in
just short of the desired locking hole. step 3.
5. Operate the handle on the locking pin actuator 6. Back the tractor until the pins engage the
to move the pins into the locking position. On locking holes. Make visual check to be sure both
newer trailers, pins are moved into locking pins are clearly through the inner beams.
position by returning the gladhand to the LOAD RATINGS: Rigid, self-supporting loads:
normal position, reversing what was done in 60,000 lbs. Flexible, non-self-supporting loads (lbs.):
step 3.
OVERALL LENGTH 40-65 45-75 48-80 53-90
6. Pull the tractor forward until the pins engage the 45' 50,000 — — —
locking holes. Make visual check and gently rock 50'
53'
40,000
—
45,000
—
—
44,000
—
—
the trailer forward and backward to be sure both 55' 32,000 35,000 — —
58' — — 34,000 43,000
pins are clearly through the inner beams. 60' 28,000 28,000 — —
63' — — 28,000 35,000
TO CLOSE THE TRAILER: 65'
68'
25,000
—
25,000
—
—
23,000
—
30,000
1. Charge the brake system 70' — 21,000 — —
73' — — 21,000 26,000
2. Apply the trailer brakes. 75' — 18,000 — —
3. Operate the handle on the locking pin actuator 78'
80'
—
—
—
—
19,000
18,000
22,000
—
to retract the locking pins or apply air to third 83'
88'
—
—
—
—
—
—
19,000
18,000
gladhand, depending on age of trailer. 90' — — — 15,000
19
WARNING: Stay clear of open area while extending and closing.
NOTES: 5’ MIN
20
PRE-TRIP INSPECTION
INSPECTION PROCEDURE Approaching vehicle
BEFORE EACH TRIP Look for oil, water, or fuel leaks.
WARNING:
When you make inspections, hookups, or
repairs, be careful how you position your
body, because the trailer or tractor might
move unexpectedly and cause injury.
2. C
heck oil pressure, warning lights, air pressure.
Deplete pressure until warning buzzer sounds.
21
3. S
ound the horn, test for 4. Test washer-wiper and examine 5. S
ee if mirrors on both sides
excess amount of wheel play. windshield for cracks. of the cab are clean and
aligned.
1. M
ake sure the fuel tank cap 2. E
xamine rear tractor wheels, wheel 3. M
ake sure fifth wheel is
is tightly secured, no leaks. nuts and tires. Check tires for proper locked.
inflation and abnormal wear.
4. S
ee if electrical connector is 5. I nspect air hoses for 6. M
ake sure the landing gear is raised
firmly seated and that cord chafing, air leaks, and and the handle is securely stowed in
is free from chafing. proper support. the crank handle holder.
23
7. W
here applicable, check for proper placard and 8. I nspect and clean sidemarker lights and reflective
shipping papers. material
9. W
here applicable, inspect sliding tandem lock. 11. Inspect and clean conspicuity tape.
10. Inspect trailer wheels and tires. Listen for air
system leaks.
24
PRE-TRIP INSPECTION continued
REAR OF TRAILER
1. S
ee if all lights are working properly, and clean as 2. Make sure all doors are secured
required.
25
FRONT OF TRACTOR
1. Inspect front tires, wheels and wheel nuts. 2. I nspect headlamps, clearance lights, identification
lights, flashers, and turn signals.
26
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
CAUTION: See Connector Wiring Change caution inside front cover.
The electrical system on every Great Dane trailer Use only a 12-volt DC battery for checking lamps or
meets or exceeds all federal and state requirements antilock brake systems. Never use battery chargers
in effect at the time of manufacture. Wherever or transformers.
required by law, lamps and reflective materials are Inspect all wiring to see that it is not frayed, and
marked by the manufacturer to indicate the that it is properly supported and protected, with
appropriate specification with which each complies. all connections tight. See that the electrical cable
For optimum performance and long life from the is clean and long enough to permit “jackknife”
trailer’s lamps and wiring, follow this inspection maneuvers. Be certain that the cable is supported
procedure. so that it cannot be pinched or entangled by the
Clean reflective materials and lamps. See that all lower and upper couplers. Keep the plug on the
lamps burn properly. Replace all burned out lamps electrical cable and the receptacle on the trailer
and damaged reflective material. Factory approved free of corrosion.
replacement parts should be used, and replace-
ment bulbs of equal candlepower should be used
for safety.
27
WARNING: Failure to heed this warning can result in property damage,
serious injury or death.
Trailer is equipped with antilock brake system (ABS). No. 7 (Blue) circuit is reserved for
continuous power supply to ABS for most effective ABS operation, towing vehicle must supply
minimum of 10 amps at 12.5 volts on no. 4 (Red) & no. 7 (Blue) circuits.
28
WIRING DIAGRAM
GREEN BROWN
BROWN
WHITE
GREEN
BROWN
WHITE
RED
BROWN
4 COND ABS HARNESS WHITE
7 COND MAIN HARNESS
BLUE
WHITE
WHITE-GREEN
RED
BROWN
RED
BROWN
WHITE
YELLOW
BROWN
WHITE
RE
YELLOW WHITE D
BROWN WHITE-GREEN
WHITE BROWN
29
FIFTH WHEEL AND KINGPIN ENGAGEMENT
Inspect the kingpin and the upper coupler on the The upper coupler fasteners should be inspected to
trailer at regular intervals to be sure that they have see that they are in place and properly tightened.
not suffered damage or undue wear. Although the Before coupling the trailer to its tractor be certain
kingpin is made of hardened forged steel, it is still that the tractor fifth wheel is properly lubricated
subject to wear and can be chipped or broken with and the fifth wheel jaws are open to receive the
abuse. Always check the bottom locking flange of kingpin.
the kingpin to determine its condition.
30
SLIDER FOR VAN TRAILERS
1. If your trailer has a sliding undercarriage, visually
inspect to see that all locking pins have fully
penetrated the upper slide rails and locked
before moving the trailer.
2. T
he slider may be equipped with a manual stop
bar that should be in good working order. If so,
this bar should always be locked in place
immediately behind the slider unit when the
trailer is being operated unless slider is in
rearmost position, then place manual stop bar
just in front of slider.
3. Be certain that the slider hold-downs are
A
fastened in place and properly situated to DETAIL
prevent separation of the lower slide unit HOLD-DOWN
ASSEMBLY
4 LOCATIONS
SLIDER
HOLD-DOWN
31
The slider may be equipped
with a Binkley Qwik Release®
or Hendrickson Quik-Draw®.
B See instructions on the next
page for proper operation.
MANUAL
STOP BAR
DETAIL B
LOCKING PIN
CROSSMEMBER
LOCKING PIN
The slider shown may or may not SHOWN WITH
be used on this vehicle. However, A PROPER PIN
operations will be similar. ENGAGEMENT
32
Qwik Release® Quik-Draw®
Many sliding running gear assem- Many sliding running gear assemblies are equipped with air-as-
blies are equipped with Spring-load- sisted Quik-Draw pin pull mechanisms to retract the pins locking
ed Qwik Release device to retract the the slider frame to the upper rails.
pins locking the slider frame to the To Position Slider:
upper rails.
1. Remove manual stop bar and move to desired location.
To Position Slider: 2. Apply trailer parking brakes.
1. Remove stop bar and move to 3. Pull the Quik-Draw control valve knob (located on a control
desired location. panel at the forward driver’s side of the slider assembly) out
2. Lift pull arm and pull until locked to its fully extended position. This pneumatically retracts the
in the “out” position. If lock pins slider pins.
do not retract after pull arm is 4. Inspect each slider pin. Ensure that each pin is fully retracted.
lowered in the “out” position, If necessary, the trailer can be gently rocked forward and
gently rock trailer with brakes then rearward to fully retract the pins.
applied and pins will
5. While keeping the trailer brakes applied, reposition the slider
automatically retract.
by slowly moving the trailer forward or rearward to the
3. Apply trailer brakes and carefully desired position—contacting the stop bar.
move trailer until contacting
6. Push the Quik-Draw control valve knob all the way in. This
stop bar.
deflates the actuators, causing the slider pin springs to force
4. Release pull arm to the “in” the slider pins outward into the slide box and running gear
position and visually check all rail holes.
lock pins for proper engagement.
7. Inspect each slider pin. Ensure that each pin has fully extended.
5. Locate manual stop bar If necessary, the trailer can be gently rocked forward and then
immediately behind slider. rearward to completely engage misaligned slider pins.
8. Locate manual stop bar immediately behind slider.
33
SLIDER FOR PLATFORM TRAILERS
1. If your trailer has a sliding undercarriage,
visually inspect to see that all four locking pins
have fully penetrated the web of the main
beam and locked before moving the trailer.
Anytime the body of a locking pin does not
protrude past the outside surface of its mating
hole, retract and release the pins until they do.
Sometimes rocking the trailer back and forth
LOCKING PIN
will free a binding condition between the slider
and the trailer, allowing the pins to work freely. LOCKING PIN
34
CARE AND ADJUSTMENT OF BRAKES
The trailer brake systems will perform safely and Program. Out-of-adjustment brakes can cause
efficiently only as long as you maintain them increased stopping distance, shorter brake
properly and do not abuse them. Trailer brakes component life, and a greater tendency for the
should be inspected and adjusted frequently in trailer to jackknife.
connection with a Trailer Preventive Maintenance
35
With the engine still off, slowly open the draincocks
in the trailer’s air tanks and allow the pressure to WARNING:
drop gradually. The parking brakes should apply. Do not operate this vehicle with any brake
Remember that serious air losses are extremely defects or with brakes out of adjustment.
hazardous conditions that are likely to cause
accidents or breakdowns.
TIRES
WARNING:
US Department of Labor NHTSA
Tire and wheel/rim servicing can be OSHA Publications Office Vehicle Safety Hotline
extremely dangerous and must be 200 Constitution Ave. NW 1200 New Jersey Ave. SE
done only by trained personnel Washington, DC 20210 West Building
using proper tools and procedures. 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) Washington, DC 20590
Information about tire and wheel Toll Free: 1-866-327-4236
servicing can be obtained from:
continued
36
TIRES continued
Do not over inflate. Check for proper inflation with Watch new and retread tires for signs of failure
an accurate gauge when the tires are cold. Check during break-in period. Dual tires on any axle end
the spare too. Inspect tires for nails and other should have the same diameter.
objects embedded in the rubber, and for stones and Replace any tire that has fabric exposed through
other objects lodged between duals. Examine tires the tread or sidewall, or that has less than 2/32”
to see that they are free of breaks and other defects. tread depth.
CAUTION: Do not inflate tires above the maximum inflation pressure molded on
the tire by the tire manufacturer. Tires must be matched with proper
compatible rims for safe operation.
TIRE LOADS
Do not overload the trailer tires. Overloading tires
creates a dangerous, unsafe condition that should
be avoided.
The total load per tire must not exceed the tire
manufacturer’s specified load carrying capacity at
stated inflation pressures for both tires and rims.
Great Dane, as required by the safety regulations of
the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,
has assigned a Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
for each axle on the undercarriage. (See example
certification plate at right).
37
The GAWR and tire information shown on the components of the running gear have been
vehicle certification plate was applicable at the time changed or altered since the trailer was
the trailer was manufactured. If the tires or other manufactured, the GAWR may have changed.
SPARE TIRE
Tires and wheels are heavy. Use caution when handling. When
you need to use or replace the spare tire, move the trailer away 2
from traffic to provide a solid, safe working area. 1
To remove the spare tire from the carrier, follow
these steps:
1. Depress spring latch on hook (1). Disconnect hook (1) from SNAP SWIVEL
CHAIN LOCK
free end of chain (2).
2. Pull chain off the tire and remove the tire from the tire
carrier.
To replace the spare tire, follow these steps: 2
1. Slide the spare into the tire carrier as far as it will go. Be sure
the tire size and the carrier are right for each other.
2. Run the chain through the center of the tire and wheel and
back to the starting point. Pull the chain ends together as
tight as possible.
3. Secure the chain by snapping hook (1) on the free end
chain (2).
38
RIMS AND WHEELS 1
10 8
Proper installation of rims and wheels on a vehicle
is essential to safe, economical, trouble-free service. 3 9
Use only the specified sizes of studs and nuts.
5 4
RECOMMENDED INSTALLATION
PROCEDURE 7 9
2
Disc Wheels
Check all parts for damage, including wheels. torque level recommended in the table below and
Insure that studs, nuts and mounting faces of hub to maintain them at that level through planned,
and wheels are clean and free from grease. Replace periodic checks. Note: When inner cap nuts are
any defective parts. retightened, be sure first to loosen outer cap nuts
several turns; then, retighten them.
Mount single wheel or inner dual wheel (also, outer
dual wheel for hub-type mounting) over studs,
being careful not to damage stud threads. Draw up
nuts alternately in the sequence as shown above. WARNING:
Do not tighten them fully, however. This procedure
Do not intermix wheel types. Insufficient
will permit the uniform seating of nuts and insure
mounting torque can cause wheel shimmy,
the even face-to-face contact of wheels and hub.
resulting in damage to parts and extreme
Tighten nuts fully, using the same alternate tire tread wear. Excessive mounting torque
sequence. Mount the outer wheel (for double cap can cause studs to break and discs to crack
mounting) and repeat the entire procedure. In each in the stud hole area.
case, be sure to tighten wheel nuts only to the
39
WARNING:
GREAT DANE LTD PART NO. 42100753
SD83410
*NOTE: Rim and wheel nuts should be rechecked for proper torque
after vehicle has been operated for 50-100 miles, and every 25,000
miles thereafter, as well as during regular maintenance checks.
40
RIMS AND WHEELS continued
LUBRICATION OF FLANGE NUTS AND STUDS
To maintain the desired torque/tension relationship, it is necessary to renew the lubricant on the threads
and between the nut body and flange. Relubrications should be done any time wheels are removed for tire
repair or replacement, brake service, etc.
WARNING: Be sure to keep nut flange face and wheel and drum surfaces
(denoted by “X”) free from lubricant, dirt or other foreign material.
41
NUT TIGHTENING PROCEDURE
To maintain the desired torque/tension relationship, it is TOP
necessary to renew the lubricant on the threads and
between the nut body and flange. Relubrications should
be done any time wheels are removed for tire repair or
replacement, brake service, etc. PILOT PADS
A. Before installing wheels, generously coat pilot pads
with a non-water-based lubricant, and be sure that
the drum is positioned on the raised step of the
pilot pad. One of the hub’s pilot pads should be at
the top location. Adjustment of the brakes prior to
installation of the wheels helps keep the drum in
proper position.
B. Lubricate the flange nuts and stud threads. Apply
two drops of any common lubricant on the threads,
and also in the crevice between the flange nuts body
and its attached flange.
C. After positioning wheels on pilot pads, hand start
flange nuts. ALL nuts and studs have RIGHT HAND
metric threads.
D. Snug top nuts to about 50-100 lb-ft torque. Snug remaining nuts using pattern shown.
STARTING AT THE TOP will help insure that the drum and wheels seal properly on their pilots.
E. Check to be certain that the mating surfaces of the wheel(s) and drum are flush.
F. Again, starting with the top nuts, tighten to 450-500 lb-ft using the pattern shown.
42
RIMS AND WHEELS continued
WARNING:
Excessively corroded or cracked rims or
rings can be dangerous. Deflate tires
prior to the removal of rims or wheels
from vehicle.
43
RIM AND WHEEL MAINTENANCE
DURING TIRE CHANGES
Check all metal surfaces as in No. 1 above. A more damages illustrated on the next page and refer to
thorough check may be made, however, after the recommendations in this section if corrective
tire has been demounted. Watch particularly for the measures are required.
Cracks in the wheel disc, between stud holes or hand holes. These are
caused by loose wheel nuts, improper installation procedures, and use
of incorrect sizes or types of attaching parts.
Cracks in the rim base, in the back flange and gutter areas. These are
caused by deep rim marks, overloading and overinflating tires, and
using larger than recommended tire sizes.
44
HUBS
WARNING: Cracked wheels, loose nuts, or missing studs are extremely hazardous
conditions that are likely to cause accidents or breakdowns.
Check hub gaskets and seals for leaks before each the hub cap. Too much oil can damage the wheel
trip. Leaking seals can result in ruined wheel bearings. Use a gear type oil: SAE 140 if tempera-
bearings and possible failure of the axle-wheel ture is above freezing. SAE 90 if temperature is
assembly. below freezing, or a multipurpose oil with a SAE
Check oil level in hubs before every trip. Add oil range of 85 to 140 for year round conditions.
when low, only to the level indicated by mark on
LUBRICATION FILL OIL (STATIC) LUBRICATION FILL SEMI-FLUID GREASE (NO. 00)
FILL TO
OIL LEVEL LINE FILL TO 3 AND
9 O’CLOCK LEVEL
APPLY GREASE
AROUND ADJUSTING NUT
45
AXLE ALIGNMENT
Axle alignment must be checked at regular intervals. If the trailer is not tracking properly, this should be
reported to the Maintenance Department.
47
SUPPORTS (LANDING GEAR)
1. Always raise support legs completely before
moving the trailer.
2. Always engage the support operating handle.
Do not depend on the retaining bolt to transfer
the rotation from the crank handle to the gear
shaft.
3. Always use chock blocks or lock trailer brakes
when uncoupling or coupling tractor and trailer
on the road or in the terminal area. Chock as
required for unusual conditions.
4. Always place support feet on a plank for
flotation to prevent sinking into soil or soft
asphalt when a loaded trailer is uncoupled from
a tractor.
5. Always lower supports to the ground before
disconnecting the tractor from the trailer.
6. Always store the crank in the crank holder.
48
PARKING BRAKES
All axles are equipped with air/spring actuators. To manually release parking brake actuators:
Each actuator is separated into two units. The 1. Always position wheel chocks at both front and
base unit applies the service brakes. The top unit rear of tires before manually releasing parking
contains a coil spring that must be compressed brakes.
by air within the chamber to release the parking
2. A parking brake release tool is stored in a pocket
brakes. Loss of air pressure in the supply line to
on the side of the brake chamber. (See photo).
the brake chamber will automatically apply parking
and/or emergency braking. 3. Insert the detachable release bolt through hole
in head. Turn the release bolt clockwise until it
stops and locks, then pull the release bolt out as
CAUTION: far as possible, and run the nut down, holding
Actuator plugs must remain in place when the bolt in place.
not being serviced. Plugs prevent contami-
Using a hand wrench, turn the release bolt nut
nates from entering brake chamber.
clockwise until the bolt extends about three inches.
Make sure the release bolt is locked properly in the
A manual release piston.
tool is provided on The parking brake coil spring is now caged.
each actuator to
allow release of
the spring brake CAUTION:
when sufficient air DO NOT operate your trailer with parking
pressure is not brakes caged or in any other way disabled.
available. Never attempt to open a brake actuator.
The internal spring is very dangerous.
49
ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
WARNING:
GREAT DANE LTD PART NO. 42100749
SD83830
50
REAR, SIDE, AND VENT DOORS
1. Check rear, side, vent, and any accessory doors. To assure safe, reliable, and continuous operation,
Secure them open or closed as required. the following precautions and maintenance
2. Never have side or rear doors unlocked or open instructions must be observed.
when the trailer is moving. 1. Operate the door only when it is properly
adjusted and free from obstruction.
SWING DOORS
2. Do not use any part of the door, such as the
strap or lift handle, as an aid when entering or
CAUTION: leaving the trailer.
When you open side or rear doors, at all
3. Use caution when passing under a roll-up door
times apply an inward pressure on the door
handle when releasing the handle from the with a lift truck.
gravity keeper. This may prevent a toppled 4. Leave the door alone if it becomes difficult or
load from snapping open the door handle, impossible to operate. Have it repaired or
perhaps causing serious injury. adjusted by a qualified door repair person.
5. The door spring is constantly under extreme
OVERHEAD DOORS tension. Repairs and adjustments, especially to
the door counterbalance assembly, are poten-
tially dangerous and must be performed by
CAUTION: qualified service personnel only.
When in operation, an overhead door is a
large, heavy moving object. When the door 6. Clear any obstruction from the door tracks and
is moving up or down, avoid standing in the the base of the mounting angle where the door
opening or walking through the doorway. comes down to the floor.
51
7. Perform regular inspection and maintenance BULKHEADS
on the listed items:
a. Be certain that all nuts and bolts are tight and secure. CAUTION:
b. Check cables at attachment points and replace all Do not operate the trailer with a
frayed or otherwise damaged cable. bulkhead locked in the horizontal
c. .Check cable drums for tightness against bearings. position. Do not use the bulkhead
as a load shifting barrier or brace.
d. Check all rollers for smoothness of
operation, and have all sliding or otherwise damaged
rollers replaced.
e. Replace frayed, damaged, or severely worn pull straps.
f. Check the door lock to be sure that it is free, and fully
operational.
g. Replace broken or damaged hinges.
h. Periodically use a light lubricant (not grease) on rollers,
counterbalance hinges, and lock, as necessary, to
CAUTION:
Close and lock overhead door before moving the trailer.
52
WARRANTY CLAIMS
First purchaser warranty claims
and other consumer complaints
should be reported in writing to:
L E
Great Dane LLC
P
P.O. Box 67
SAM
Savannah, GA 31402-0067
or call 877-369-3493
53
REPORTING CLAIMS AND SAFETY DEFECTS
Customer Service Phone Number: 877-369-3493
This vehicle was designed and quality inspected to If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
conform with industry standards, and all applicable could cause a crash or could cause injury or death,
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration you should immediately inform NHTSA in addition
(NHTSA) safety standards. Great Dane LLC warrants to notifying Great Dane LLC.
this vehicle to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship when manufactured. If you detect a If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open
defect that could cause an accident, injury or death; an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect
or if you wish to report any such accident, injury or exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall
death, or any property damage claim or other and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot
complaint not addressed to the Customer Service become involved in individual problems between
Department, then you should in writing advise: you, your dealer, or Great Dane LLC.
Director, Customer Service To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle Safety
Great Dane LLC Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-
P.O. Box 67 9153); go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write to:
Savannah, GA 31402-0067
Administrator, NHTSA,
1200 New Jersey Ave. SE
West Building
Washington, DC 20590
55
SERVICE RECORD
DATE MILEAGE DESCRIPTION
56
NOTES
57
NOTES
58
NOTES
59