Operator’s Manual
© Copyright 2018 - Rail-Ability Limited
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15 Coupling and Uncoupling
WARNING
•
The operator is responsible for all coupling/uncoupling procedures. The machine/crane
controller must be present to verify that each procedure has been carried out correctly.
•
Only trained and assessed competent staff are allowed to undertake coupling/uncoupling
procedures for these vehicles.
•
In DC electrified line areas (3
rd
and 4
th
rail), and in addition to the possession, a DC isolation
must be in place at all times whilst a trailer is on the line.
•
When not in use, all trailers must be off-tracked to a safe position.
•
Whenever a rail trailer is placed on track, a test of the brakes must be carried out.
•
NOTE: THE MACHINE ENGINE SHOULD NOT BE RUNNING WHEN THE TRAILER
BREAKS ARE CONNECTED AND DISCONNECTED AND THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE
PRESSURE GAUGE ON THE RAIL AXLE SHOULD READ ZERO BAR IN BOTH CASES to
ensure the trailer brakes apply fully.
15.1 Coupling/Re-Coupling
Connect the trailer tow bar to the RRV towing coupling. Then allow the machine to approach the trailer
automatic coupling end. The drawbar will automatically operate the coupler on the trailer as the
drawbar eye end enters the coupler funnel. (Do not connect the brake hose).
WARNING
– Newer attempt to connect a towing jaw end of a vehicle to another towing jaw end of a
vehicle, unless following emergency recovery procedures.
Carry out a test pull. The trailer brakes should resist movement: none of the wheels should rotate.
Connect up the brake hose, release the trailer parking brake from the machine and repeat the test
pull, allowing for any time delay in the system operation. The trailer should now move freely.
WARNING
– Only if the above brake tests are satisfactory should the trailer be used.
If the brakes are found to be ineffective, the trailer must be off-tracked.
If the trailer cannot be lifted off track in one operation while the host machine is in rail mode, then the
end of the trailer nearer the host machine must be carefully derailed in order to prevent runaway.
At all times, the trailer must be secured to prevent runaway.
15.2 Uncoupling
The vehicles should be brought to a stop; the towing vehicle’s parking brake applied and the engine
stopped
(where necessary). Follow the manufacturer’s procedure for ensuring that the brake pressure
has been released. Note that after stopping the engine there is usually a delay before line pressure
decays.
Disconnect the brake hose and restart the engine (where necessary).
Use the towing vehicle to carry out a test pull. The trailer brakes should resist movement: none of the
wheels should rotate.
WARNING
– If brakes are found to be ineffective, the trailer must be off-tracked.
