446B Backhoe Loader Caterpillar

Towing the Machine

Usage:

446B 5BL

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Personal injury or death could result when towing a disabled machine incorrectly.
Block the machine to prevent movement before releasing the brakes. The machine can roll free if it is not blocked.

Follow the recommendations below, to properly perform the towing procedure.

This machine is equipped with hydraulically applied wet disc brakes.

These towing instructions are for moving a disabled machine for a short distance at low speed. Move the machine at a speed of 2 km/h (1.2 mph) or less to a convenient location for repair. These instructions are only for emergencies. Always haul the machine if long distance moving is required.

Shielding must be provided on both machines. This will protect the operator if the tow line or the tow bar breaks.

Do not allow an operator to be on the machine that is being towed unless the operator can control the steering and/or the braking.

Before towing, make sure that the tow line or the tow bar is in good condition. Make sure that the tow line or the tow bar has enough strength for the towing procedure that is involved. The strength of the towing line or of the tow bar should be at least 150 percent of the gross weight of the towing machine. This is true for a disabled machine that is stuck in the mud and for towing on a grade.

Keep the tow line angle to a minimum. Do not exceed a 30 degree angle from the straight ahead position.

Quick machine movement could overload the tow line or the tow bar. This could cause the tow line or the tow bar to break. Gradual, steady machine movement will be more effective.

Normally, the towing machine should be as large as the disabled machine. Make sure that the towing machine has enough brake capacity, enough weight, and enough power. The towing machine must be able to control both machines for the grade that is involved and for the distance that is involved.

You must provide sufficient control and sufficient braking when you are moving a disabled machine downhill. This may require a larger towing machine or additional machines that are connected to the rear. This will prevent the machine from rolling away out of control.

All situation requirements cannot be listed. Minimal towing machine capacity is required on smooth, level surfaces. On inclines or on surfaces in poor condition, maximum towing machine capacity is required.

Attach the towing device and the machine before you release the brakes. If equipped, disengage the front wheel drive.

Consult your Caterpillar dealer for towing a disabled machine.

Towing with a Running Engine

If the engine is running, the machine can be towed for a short distance under certain conditions. The power train and the steering system must be operable. Tow the machine for a short distance only. For example, pull the machine out of mud or pull the machine to the side of the road.

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Illustration 1	g00105007

Move the transmission control lever to the NEUTRAL position.

Engage the transmission neutral lock.

Raise the attachments off the ground.

Release the parking brake in order to allow the machine to move.

Towing with a Stopped Engine

Perform the following steps before you tow the machine with a stopped engine.

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Illustration 2	g00104991

Engage the parking brake.

Move the transmission control levers to the NEUTRAL position.

Engage the transmission neutral lock.

Raise all of the attachments above the ground. If necessary, use a hoist in order to lift the attachments. Lift the attachments while you move the control levers to the raise position.
Note: The attachments must be blocked up in the raised position. Release the levers after you raise the attachments and after you block up the attachments.