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INTRODUCTION
This manual is provided to every user of a newly manufactured LUFKIN trailer to acquaint you
with the importance of maintenance and safety in the operation of your trailer.
The life of a trailer can be increased with adequate regular service and an organized Trailer
Preventative Maintenance program (TPM). The Department of Transportation requires by
regulation that maintenance records be kept on every commercial highway vehicle. It is to your
advantage to be able to show that regularly scheduled TPM inspection checks have been
performed on every piece of equipment operated and will place you in the most favorable
position from a legal standpoint in the event of an accident involving your equipment.
If LUFKIN can be of help in your Trailer Preventative Maintenance program, please give us a
call.
LUFKIN INDUSTRIES, INC.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Vehicles manufactured by LUFKIN INDUSTRIES, INC., are designed to be operated in
accordance with the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) shown on the certification label and at
legal highway speeds in the service for which they were intended.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Maintenance should be performed by a LUFKIN Dealer or by other qualified service facilities
that regularly provide such service.
Alterations to a LUFKIN Trailer should not be made without first consulting the LUFKIN Trailer
Engineering Department. Alterations could affect the structural integrity of the trailer and void
the warranty. Welding or other alterations should never be made to any air reservoir, wheel,
rim, air chamber, or spring.
The gross axle weight rating (GAWR) that is stamped on the certification plate is the structural
capacity of the lowest rated component of the suspension, springs, hubs, drums, wheels, rims,
bearings, brakes, axles, or tires.
If components are substituted that affect GAWR that are of less capacity that those originally
installed, the GAWR on the certification plate must be lowered to the corresponding lower
capacity by adding an “Altered Vehicle” label. If components are substituted that are of equal
or greater capacity than those originally installed, then GAWR labels need not be changed.
Appearance maintenance is important to the Trucking Industry. It can favorably project the
public image of your company. It also adds to their physical condition and ultimate trade-in
value.
Protective films such as paints and other coatings are necessary to prevent corrosion and
protect the metal and wood surfaces. Trailers that operate in environments that are conducive
to severe corrosion may require more or different protective coatings than those usually
applied as standard; check with your LUFKIN representative for recommendations.
There are “
WARNING
” and “
CAUTION
” decals prominently displayed on all trailers. All
personnel operating the vehicle should follow these.