freightliner 108SD, Driver Manual

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9.
Chock the tires on the disabled vehicle and con-
nect the towing vehicle’s air brake system to the
vehicle being towed. Then, release the spring
parking brakes and remove the chocks.
Rear Towing Hookup
NOTICE
Using a rear towing hookup on a vehicle
equipped with a roof fairing could cause damage
to the cab structure.
If reverse towing at speeds above 45 mph (70
kph) is necessary, hold down the cab with ten-
sion straps looped over the cab shocks and
under the frame rails. Failure to do so could
allow the wind load to lift the cab unexpectedly,
resulting in damage to the air springs and other
components.
1. If the vehicle is equipped with cab air suspen-
sion, and reverse towing at speeds above 45
mph (70 kph) is necessary, hold down the cab as
follows:
1.1 Drain the air from the cab air springs.
1.2 Loop a 2-inch (5-cm) ratchet-style tension
strap (rated 2000 lb [900 kg] minimum
work load) over the top of the cab shock
and under the frame rail. Tighten the strap
for a snug fit. See
Fig. 24.7 . If the cab is
equipped with two or more shocks, re-
strain the aftmost shock on each side of
the vehicle.
2. Place the front tires straight forward and secure
the steering wheel in this position.
3. Disconnect the battery ground cables.
NOTICE
Failure to protect the frame rails from the chains
could cause damage, leading to eventual frame
failure.
4. On dual drive axles, using protection to keep the
chains from damaging the vehicle frame, chain
the forward-rear drive axle to the frame.
5.
Attach the towing device.
NOTE: Due to the many variables that exist in
towing, positioning the lifting and towing device
is the sole responsibility of the towing-vehicle
operator.
6. Lift the vehicle and secure the safety chains. If
extra clearance is needed, remove the bumper
extension if equipped.
7. Connect the clearance lights, taillights, and sig-
nal lights. Also connect any special towing lights
required by local regulations.
Fire in the Cab
The incidence of fire in trucks is rare, according to
data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Admin-
istration. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
#302 limits the flammability of specified materials
used inside the cab, but despite this, most materials
will burn. The cab of this vehicle contains urethane
foam, which is of concern in this respect.
06/09/2014 f602529
Fig. 24.7, Tension Strap Installed to Hold Down the Cab
In an Emergency
24.6