Hauling oversize equipment

When hauling oversize equipment in North Dakota, remember to comply with all relevant state and local regulations regarding load characteristics such as height, weight, width, and length 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19. Regulations governing wide loads should also be observed 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.

Before transporting any machine, make sure to know the total weight, length, width, and height of the machine [1]. You should also investigate the route to be traveled, checking for bridge and overpass clearances, and the height of road signs 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19. Obtain any necessary permits from the appropriate government agencies for machine transportation [1].

When preparing the machine for transport:

• Use a trailer with a sufficient rated capacity [1].
• Ensure the trailer has ramps or that a ramp is available for loading and unloading [1].
• Set the travel speed control switch to LOW before loading the machine and avoid operating the switch while loading 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Turn off the Automatic Engine Speed Control (AEC) during loading and unloading, especially in close quarters, to prevent sudden machine movements 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Remove ice, snow, or slippery materials from loading docks and truck beds 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Choose the flattest ground available for loading and unloading 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Chock the trailer wheels before loading 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Ensure loading ramps are of adequate length, width, strength, and slope (maintaining a slope within 15 degrees) 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Position the machine to drive straight up the ramps with the final drives toward the rear 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Lower the work tool to the bed of the transport machine 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Chock both tracks and install sufficient tie-downs and wire cables to prevent rolling or sudden movement 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19.
• Retract the radio antenna and remove mirrors, storing them securely [2].
• Place a wood block under the bucket link to prevent ground contact and protect the bucket cylinder [2].

Secure the machine by chocking the front and rear of the crawlers and using wire ropes of appropriate strength to prevent movement [2]. If equipped, you might need to remove door hooks, cab bumpers, and fuel tank steps, referring to local regulations for specifics 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19.