User guide 

 

TD steering system (0101, 0102 and 0105)

- December 2015 - V1.4

www.tridec.com

Table of Contents

2 11-12-2015 U-TD0101EN

Contents

Preface.......................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Chapter 1: Safety & environmental consideration..................................................... 4Symbols................................................................................................................................................................. 4Safety regarding operation.................................................................................................................................... 4Environmental considerations................................................................................................................................4

Chapter 2: Description.............................................................................................................................5Acronyms............................................................................................................................................................... 5Components...........................................................................................................................................................5Principle operation................................................................................................................................................. 7

Chapter 3: Operation................................................................................................................................. 8Couple and uncouple a steered semi-trailer.........................................................................................................8

Couple:........................................................................................................................................................ 9Uncouple:.................................................................................................................................................... 9

Driving with a steered semi-trailer...................................................................................................................... 10Vulnerability of the steering system......................................................................................................... 10Steering characteristics and swing out of a steered semi-trailer..............................................................11

Chapter 4: Maintenance....................................................................................................................... 12Maintenance of the TD steering system............................................................................................................. 12

Maintenance schedule.............................................................................................................................. 12Type designation................................................................................................................................................. 13Lubricants.............................................................................................................................................................15

Grease specifications................................................................................................................................15Cleaning............................................................................................................................................................... 15Lubrication of the TD steering system................................................................................................................ 16Daily check of the TD steering system...............................................................................................................18

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Preface

About this guide:

This guide is written for the driver or other user of the TD steering system and contains the necessary informationabout the use of the TD steering system.

For the service technician we provide a separate maintenance and repair guide containing the necessaryinformation regarding the maintenance and repairs of the TD steering system. This guide is available at our websitewww.tridec.com.

At first delivery of the TD steering system a separate installation guide has been provided.

Proper usage:

The TD steering system is not designed for use on its own. It is designed for mounting on a semi-trailer as a steeringsystem.

Modifications of any kind may affect the safety level of the device. In addition, the modifications render the warrantyvoid and will also void the homologation of the vehicle.

If the TD steering system is not used correctly, all warranty claims against the manufacturer and supplier of the TDsteering system will be rendered void.

The device must not be used until it has been established that the semi-trailer on which the system has been installedcomplies with the national regulations for road traffic.

The system is only allowed to be taken into operation in conjunction with the owner's manual for the truck as well asfor the semi-trailer.

Danger: All safety information is compiled in chapter 1. The required safety information is repeatedand marked with symbols in the various chapters where the user is in danger.

Contact details:

TRIDEC Transport industry development centre bv5692 GA Son, The NetherlandsPhone: +31(0) 499 491050 Fax: +31(0) 499 491060www.tridec.com info@tridec.com

Legal and copyright:

No part of this document may be reproduced and/or published by print,photocopy, microfilm or by any other means without prior written permissionfrom TRIDEC. The figures and specifications used in this guide are compiledwith upmost care. However, we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuraciesor omissions. TRIDEC reserves the right to change parts technically withoutnotifying in advance. For information about this subject please contact TRIDEC.

© Copyright TRIDEC, Son, The Netherlands

This version is a translation, the original version is written in Dutch (NL)

Date of issue: 11 December 2015 Version: 1.4

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Chapter

1

Safety & environmental consideration

The following sections contain information about the safety of the TD steering system.

Sections:

Symbols on page 4Safety regarding operation on page 4Environmental considerations on page 4

Symbols

The following symbols are used in this guide:

Table 1: Used symbols

Description Description Description

Danger for injury or lifethreatening situations!

Danger for injury or lifethreatening situations bybreaking parts.

Risks for crushing!

Risks for electrical shocks and/ordamage to the electrical system!

Risks for system damage! Risks for falling pieces!

Important restriction! Read this information first!

Safety regarding operation

Operation of a semi-trailer with TD steering system contains risks. Apply the relevant regulations which are applicablein your country (for example: road traffic regulations, company procedures, occupational health and safety regulations)when operating a semi-trailer with the TD steering system installed.

General instructions when operating a semi-trailer include TD steering system:

NEVER attempt to use or bring a semi-trailer with installed TD steering system on public roads as long as it hasnot been established that the complete semi-trailer complies with the national regulation for road traffic.Read the operation instructions BEFORE coupling and starting to operate the semi-trailer with installed TDsteering system.Carry out the daily inspection BEFORE coupling the semi-trailer to the truck or start to drive.

The driver of the truck is ALWAYS responsible for operating the TD steering system.

NEVER steer the semi-trailer with TD steering system when people are close to moving or steering parts of thesemi-trailer.

Environmental considerations

Hydraulic fluids, oil, greases and batteries are pollutants that can seriously pollute the environment. Return thesesubstances to the designated authority or appropriate waste disposal company for recycling.

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Chapter

2

Description of the TD steering system

The following sections contain information about the TD steering system:

Acronyms on page 5Components of the TD steering system on page 5Principle operation of the TD steering system on page 7

Acronyms

FWU: (Fifth Wheel Unit) This is the transfer mechanism for the steering system between the truck and semi-trailer.FWU's must be installed in the trailer chassis. The main parts of the FWU are the fifth wheel housing, the turntable,fifth wheel plate, the kingpin, steering wedge, and the journal which is connected to the steering rod.

AMF: (Axle Mounting Frame) This is the transfer mechanism for the steering system between the trailer chassis andthe steered rear axle of the semi-trailer. The AMF must be installed in the trailer chassis. The main parts of the AMFare the frame, the turntable, the steering beam, and the cross members.

Components of the TD steering system

0101_024

2 34

5

1

1

67

87

8

1b

32

(1) FWU (G), (1b) optional FWU (K), (2) king-pin, (3) steering wedge,(4) steering rod, (5) rod guidance's, (6) AMF, (7) leaf spring bracket plates(optional), (8) mudguard support (optional)

Figure 1: Component overview of the TD steering system (0101)

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2 34

5

1

1

0101_104

67 8

7

8

(1) optional FWU (T), (2) king-pin, (3) steering wedge,(4) steering rod, (5) rod guidance's, (6) AMF, (7) leaf spring bracket plates (optional), (8)mudguard support (optional)

Figure 2: TD steering system in 12 t version, type (0105)

1b

32

0102_001

45

1

2 3

1

6

6

7

88

8

88

8

8

(1) FWU (G), (1b) optional FWU (K), (2) king-pin, (3) steering wedge, (4) steering rod, (5) rod guidance's, (6) AMF, (7) second steering rod, (8)mudguard support (optional)

Figure 3: TD steering system with two steered axles, type (0102)

Description of the TD steering system

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Principle operation of the TD steering system

12 3 4

56

0101_002

(1) FWU, (2) steering rod, (3) rigid axle, (4) AMF, (5) fifth wheel plate, (6) rod guidance’s

Figure 4: Principle operation of the TD steering system

0102_007

12 3 4 5

6 7

(1) FWU, (2) steering rod, (3) AMF nr 1, (4) second steer rod, (5) AMF nr 2, (6) turntable plate, (7) rod guidance’s

Figure 5: Principle operation of the TD steering system with two steered axles

The TD steering system is a "articulated steering system". This steering system minimizes the used road space of thetruck trailer combination in curves. Semi-trailer combinations that are equipped with steering axles are much moremanoeuvrable than semi-trailer with fixed axles.

The TD steering system is mainly developed for distribution purposes. The type-designation " TD" stands for the Dutchwords "push/pull rod".

The steering forces are created when the truck changes direction. During driving in a bend the steering wheels of thesemi-trailer will always steer automatically. The steer angle of the semi-trailer is proportional to the steering movementof the truck.

While steering, the rotational movement between the truck and semi-trailer is transmitted to the FWU by the kingpinand a wedge that drops into the fifth wheel. A steering rod (2) establishes a pivoting connection between the fifthwheel plate (5) and the AMF (4) of the steered axle.

If the semi-trailer is equipped with multiple axles, the rear axle is always steered. The steering angle of the AMF isdetermined by the center-to-center distance between the kingpin and the bearing journal of the steering rod on theFWU.

When the steering system includes two steered axles the steering angle of the preceding AMF is determinde by thecenter-to center distance of the steering rod's bearing journals to the rear AMF and the preceding AMF.

For stability a small caster forces a steered axle to the straight forward position when driving forward.

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Chapter

3

Operation of the TD steering system

The following sections contain information regarding the operation of the TD steering system.

Important: Before starting to operate a trailer with the TD steering system installed, FIRST read the chapterSafety & environmental consideration on page 4

Sections:

Couple and uncouple a steered semi-trailer on page 8Driving with a steered semi-trailer on page 10

Couple and uncouple a steered semi-trailer

Coupling requires attention, be aware of the warnings and always follow the steps below:

Danger: SEMI-TRAILER CAN SLIDE SIDEWARDS WHEN INCORRECTLY COUPLING OR UNCOUPLING.

During coupling the semi-trailer is lifted by the fifth wheel, which raises the legs from the ground. This may allow thesemi-trailer to slide side wards.

Therefor it is of great importance that the truck's riding height is set correctly when coupling to a semi-trailer.

8300_059

Figure 6: During coupling the semi-trailer can slide off!

Operation of the TD steering system

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Couple:

Caution: An incorrect coupling height can lead to undesirable movement of the semi-trailer.

Caution: Coupling or uncoupling at an angle can cause misalignment and/or damage to the system.

8300_057

Figure 7: Coupling a steered semi-trailer

1. Make sure that the fifth wheel of the truck is at the same coupling height as the turntable plate of the semi-trailer.2. Drive the truck under the semi-trailer in a straight line.3. The semi-trailer must NOT be coupled at an angle.

Uncouple:

Caution: Coupling or uncoupling at an angle can cause misalignment and/or damage to the system.

8300_058

Figure 8: Uncoupling a steered semi-trailer

1. Make sure that the truck trailer combination is on a flat horizontal surface.2. Extend the trailer legs far enough that the trailer will remain at the same height during un-coupling.3. Drive the truck in a straight line out from under the semi-trailer.4. The semi-trailer must NOT be un-coupled at an angle.

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Driving with a steered semi-trailer

Danger: Inattentive driving will cause accidents and/or damage to the steering system!

Driving with a steered semi-trailer requires attention; take care of the vulnerability and the behaviour of the steeringsystem.

Vulnerability of the steering system

Caution: Inattentive driving in to a road that makes a sharp angle or inclination causes damage to thesteering system!

When driving, always take care that neither the front nor the rear position of the trailer section above the fifth wheelcontact or strain any part of the steering system when entering a road that makes a sharp angle of inclination.Examples are level crossings and loading docks or the embarkation/disembarkation ramps of a ferry boat.

Tip: When entering a road that makes a sharp inclination, stop to check (or let your relief driver check) thespace between truck and semi-trailer, and drive slowly. When there is minimal space left, don't go further butstop and find an alternative route.

8300_060

Figure 9: Vulnerability of the steering system!

Operation of the TD steering system

U-TD0101EN 11-12-2015 11

Steering characteristics and swing out of a steered semi-trailer

Danger: When turning, the semi-trailer can swing out of the drive line! Causing danger to other roadusers!

The steering characteristics of a non-steered semi-trailer differ from those of a steered one. The center of rotation ofthe semi-trailer (point A) is closer to the truck for a steered semi-trailer than for a non/steered semi-trailer. This hasinfluences on the turning radius and the required road space of the semi-trailer and makes it possible to manouvremore easily through narrow streets. Always remember when entering a bend/corner (point B) that the rear corner of asteered semi-trailer will swing out further than a non-steered semi-trailer.

Tip: Practice first and get used to the steering characteristics of a steered semi-trailer, before driving intonarrow streets and heavy traffic.

8300_061

B B

CC

1 2

D D

A A

(1) characteristics of a non-steered semi-trailer, (2) characteristics of a semi-trailer that includes the TD steering system,

(A) center of rotation of the semi-trailer, (B) swing-out of the semi-trailer, (C) turning radius of the semi-trailer, (D) required road space

Figure 10: Characteristics of a non-steered semi-trailer compared with a steered semi-trailer

8300_062

Danger zones of a semi-trailer include steering system are indicated in red.

Figure 11: Danger zones of a steered semi-trailer

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Chapter

4

Maintenance of the TD steering system

The following sections contain information regarding the maintenance of the TD steering system.

Important: Before starting FIRST read the chapter Safety & environmental consideration on page 4

Sections:

Maintenance of the TD steering system on page 12Type designation on page 13Lubricants on page 15Cleaning on page 15Lubrication of the TD steering system on page 16Daily check of the TD steering system on page 18

Maintenance of the TD steering system

Danger: In order to ensure the safety of service mechanics, the driver, and others, the maintenanceevents of the TD steering system must be carried out by skilled service mechanics. Negligence can putthe service mechanic, the driver and others at great risk.

Danger: Maintenance doesn't only have influences the length of life of the system, but also ensures asecure and safe operation of the system.

Maintenance schedule

Table 2: Maintenance schedule

Item: Interval: Performed by:

Daily check Daily before operation Driver/operatorFirst maintenance event After the first 10.000 km / 2 months Skilled service mechanicMaintenance Every 25.000 km / 3 months Skilled service mechanicMaintenance (extended) Every 100.000 km / 24 months Skilled service mechanic

Maintenance of the TD steering system

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Type designation

The TD steering system has decals on the following positions.

0101_025(0120)

3

2

2

1

2

2

2

2

1

2

(1) turntable type decal, (2) serial number decal, (3) identification decal of the TD steering system

Figure 12: Location of identification numbers (0101)

0101_106

2

3

34455-1-123

2

1

4

34455-1-123

(1) turntable type decal, (2) stamped serial number, (3) identification decal of the TD steering system, (4) stamped serial number

Figure 13: Location of identification numbers in 12 t version, type (0105)

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3

34455-1-123

2

1

24

34455-1-123

(0120)

2

34455-1-123

2

1

(1) turntable type decal, (2) stamped serial number, (3) identification decal of the TD steering system, (4) stamped serial number

Figure 14: Location of identification numbers with two steered axles, type (0102)

8300_006

AB

CD

C

B

8300_014

(A) type, (B) serial number, (C) year of manufacture, (D) Dutch national approval number

Figure 15: Product identification decal of the TD steering system and the serial number decal.

Table 3: Explanation of the identification number

SE 15 10 S TD G / XXXXX-X-XXX Description:

S Steering systemE or T/D/V Number of axles on the semi-trailer (E=1, T=2, D=3, V=4 or 5)12,15, 18 Max load FWU in tonnage (1 t = 1000 kg)10 Number of steered axles (10=1, 20=2, etc.)S Not applicableTD Type of steering systemG,T or K Type of FWU (G = bolted version, K = extra low version) (T = 12 t version)XXXXX-X-XXX Serial number

Maintenance of the TD steering system

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Lubricants

Restriction: ONLY apply the specified lubricant in the TD steering system, other lubricants are NOTpermitted.

Caution: REPLACE lubricants of the TD steering system as specified in the maintenance schedule.

Grease specifications

Lubricate the TD steering system with grease that complies with NLGI-class 2 specification. If the system has a centrallubrication system use grease that complies with NLGI-class 0 or 2 specification, verify specifications with the manualof the central lubrication system.

Table 4: Grease specifications

NGLI class 2: NGLI class 0: (central lubrication)

Thickener Calcium, Sulfonate, Lithium Calcium, Sulfonate, LithiumDrop point >180 °C >180 °CTemperature range -20 °C to 100 °C -20 °C to 110 °CViscosity from base oil at 40 °C > 280 mm² > 600 mm²Shell 4 ball test > 250 kg > 220 kg

For lubrication process: Lubrication of the TD steering system on page 16.

Cleaning

The following items must be taken into account when cleaning the TD steering system with a high pressure washer orsteam cleaner:

1. The maximum allowed pressure is 100 BAR (10.0 Mpa).2. Maintain a minimum distance of 30 cm between the nozzle of the pressure washer and the surface being cleaned.3. Don't pressure wash electrical components and connectors (if available).4. Don't use aggressive cleaning solvent which can be harmful for the paintwork and seals.5. Use a dry cloth and if required a degreaser to clean control boxes.6. Always lubricate the TD steering system after cleaning with a high pressure washer.

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Lubrication of the TD steering system

Lubricate the TD steering system with grease that complies with NLGI-class 2 specification. If the system has a centrallubrication system use grease that complies with NLGI-class 0 or 2 specification, verify specifications with the manualof the central lubrication system. Lubricants on page 15

Caution: When lubricating the TD steering system, ensure that the lubricating points are thoroughly lubricated,so that the grease extrudes and forms a collar around the seal of the component (such as: turntables).

1. Drive the truck-trailer combination in a straight line.2. Clean the lubricating nipples and surrounding area and remove the caps from the nipples. (see figure).3. Apply grease to all grease nipples of front and rear turntables.4. Turn the truck to right so that the truck-trailer combination will stand in an angle of approximately 45 degrees.5. Apply grease to all grease nipples again to evenly spread the grease across the turntable.6. Turn the truck to left so that the truck-trailer combination will stand in an angle of approximately 45 degrees in the

other direction.7. Apply grease to all grease nipples again to evenly spread the grease across the turntable.8. Return the truck-trailer combination back to the straight ahead position.9. Remove excess grease that escapes from under the seals of the turntable bearings.10. Fit the caps to the grease nipples.

2

1

0101_041

1 (0120)

(1) lubrication nipples on FWU, (2) lubrication nipples on the AMF

Figure 16: Lubrication points of the TD steering system (0101)

Maintenance of the TD steering system

U-TD0101EN 11-12-2015 17

0101_110

1

2

(1) lubrication nipples on FWU, (2) lubrication nipples on the AMF

Figure 17: Lubrication points of the TD steering system in 12 t version, type (0105)

0102_035

11

3

2

(0120)

(1) lubrication nipples on FWU, (2) lubrication nipples on the AMF nr 1, (3) lubrication nipples on the AMF nr 2

Figure 18: Lubrication points of the TD steering system with two steered axles, type (0102)

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Daily check of the TD steering system

Table 5: Items to check:

1.

a

b c 8300_070

d

e

2.

0101_039

a

bcd

e

f

3.

0101_040

a

b

c

a

4.

8300_074

5.

8300_072

6.

8300_073

Danger: Negligence of the daily check can put the driver and others at great risk.

The following items must be considered when performing the daily check on the TD steering system:

1. Check the FWU housing (a), the king pin (b), the steer wedge (c) and the turntable plate (d) for damages and orloose bolts. Also check the bolt connection to the steering rod (e).

2. Check the connection from AMF to chassis (a), the turntable (b), the leaf spring bracket plates (optional) (c), theleaf spring (d), and the mudguard support (e) for damages, cracked welds and or loose bolts. Check also the boltconnection to the steering rod (f)

3. Check the journal for damages or loose bolts (a), and also check the rod guides for damages or loose bolts (b) andwear (c).

4. Check if the FWU and the AMF are sufficiently lubricated.5. Check if the steering system operates correctly and without noises when steering.6. Check if the truck trailer combination drives in a straight line when steering straight ahead.7. Report damages and or strange noises immediately to your service provider.8. Never drive with a semi-trailer which has damage, loose or lost bolts, excessive wear or a lack of maintenance.

Maintenance of the TD steering system

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TRIDEC,Transport industry development centre bv, Ekkersrijt 6030, 5692 GA Son - the Netherlands

Tel. +31 499 49 10 50, Fax +31 499 49 10 60, info@tridec.com, www.tridec.com .