1. Speed Adjustment and Movement
When changing gears, first push the accelerator handle forward to the low-speed idle position, then push the main clutch lever to the frontmost position to disengage the main clutch. Due to the effect of the small brake in the main clutch, the power input shaft of the transmission stops rotating. At this time, correctly move the gearshift lever to the desired gear position, and then place the forward or reverse lever in the forward or reverse position (when the bulldozer is moving forward, pull the forward lever backward; when it is moving backward, push it forward). After shifting gears, pull the accelerator handle backward to increase the engine speed and smoothly engage the main clutch. The bulldozer starts moving. When the bulldozer is moving, pull the main clutch control lever to the farthest position; do not place it in the semi-engaged position. Because semi-engaged main clutch will aggravate the wear of the friction plates. When the bulldozer is in neutral gear, the control lever should be placed in the neutral position. Generally, bulldozers have 5 forward gears and 4 reverse gears. The steering lever can be used to change the direction of the bulldozer's movement. When the bulldozer is operating, it should run at the highest speed to improve operational efficiency. However, the driver should always pay attention to whether the engine is running normally. If the engine overheats and emits black smoke, the speed should be appropriately reduced.
2. Steering
When steering during the operation of the crawler bulldozer, pull the lever of the steering clutch backward to separate the steering clutch. Thus, the speed of the corresponding side's tracks slows down, and the bulldozer begins to turn. To make the bulldozer make a sharp turn, in addition to separating the steering clutch, the corresponding brake pedal should also be depressed. Generally, sharp turns are only allowed when in neutral gear. Without using the brake, the foot should not be placed on the brake pedal, otherwise it will cause the brake band to wear and increase fuel consumption. When the bulldozer turns, it should smoothly press the brake pedal to avoid jolting during the turn. After the turn, release the brake pedal first, then release the control lever. If the turning radius is large, there is no need to press the brake pedal. It is not necessary to make the bulldozer revolve at high speed on the spot to avoid the tracks from derailing and causing an accident.
3. Driving on Slopes
Different models of bulldozers have different climbing capabilities (generally 30°), and the slopes and terrains that the bulldozers can adapt to are also different. The driver should be familiar with the climbing limits of the used model to avoid sliding due to insufficient up- and downhill capabilities. Before going up a slope, select the appropriate speed gear according to the terrain, slope size and length. Do not change gears halfway while climbing the slope.
When climbing a slope, the bulldozer should run horizontally at a perpendicular angle to the slope. Sideways driving is not allowed on steep slopes. The bucket can be appropriately lowered to avoid affecting the view and be able to quickly make the bucket touch the ground in case of a slide to help the bulldozer brake. If the engine stalls during the ascent, immediately stop fuel supply, lower the bucket and apply emergency braking. When the bulldozer cannot stop and restart on the slope, change to reverse gear and slowly slide to the bottom (brake while sliding) and then start. If the engine does not stop fuel supply and drives down in forward gear, the engine will reverse and catch fire due to the reverse transmission of power, causing the air filter to spray fuel outward. If the engine catches fire in reverse, quickly close the accelerator and stop the bulldozer. Before restarting, check if the gearshift lever is in the neutral position. When the bulldozer is descending, select a low-speed gear with a small throttle and use the brake pedal.
4. Crossing Ridges, Steep Cliffs or Stone Patches
When crossing large boulders or steep ridges and other obstacles, drive slowly and steadily up. At the moment when the body is about to tilt forward at the top, quickly separate the clutch to allow the front part of the bulldozer to slowly touch the ground, then engage the clutch to continue moving. Do not drive diagonally over the obstacle. When crossing a stone patch, select a route in advance and drive straight through. Try to turn less during the journey and drive at a low speed gear with a small throttle. Do not drive at high speed gear, large throttle on the bumpy stone patch and make sharp turns.Bulldozer
