City of Santa Barbara Fire Department Vehicle Driver’S Handbook

CITY OF SANTA BARBARA FIRE DEPARTMENT VEHICLE DRIVER’S HANDBOOK

Tractor Drawn Aerial Tiller Operator Manual

1 Recognition of Contributions

Thank you to the all the agencies listed below for volunteering their department operations manuals for review by our organization. This manual was created from the best information contained found within these manuals.

Like all good training documents, this manual will need to be reviewed and updated by our organization as we acquire newer equipment and when our operations change in order to meet the expanding needs of our profession.

A Special thanks to the San Jose Fire Department for putting the bulk of this manual together.

The contributing reference manuals are listed in alphabetical order and not according to the contributions or importance of their contribution to this project:

The City of San Jose Fire Department

The Alameda County Fire Department

The City of Berkeley Fire Department

The Fremont Fire Department

The City of Huntington Beach Fire Department

The City of Long Beach Fire Department

The County of Los Angeles Fire Department

The NFPA 1002, Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications

The Orange City Fire Department

The Orange County Fire Authority Truck Committee

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training

The Phoenix Fire Department

The City of San Francisco Fire Department

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the Tractor Drawn Aerial certification program is to provide the training evolutions and enforce standards which are deemed necessary to successfully operate as the Tractor Drawn Aerial driver. This program will provide an opportunity for employees to gain the knowledge necessary to understand the laws, safety concerns, and liability associated with driving this unique emergency vehicle.

The intent of this program is not to replace or supersede the department's current Defensive Driver Program, but is meant to augment that program.

Under no circumstances shall any unauthorized person operate any Tractor Drawn Aerial without the consent of the Company Officer.

INTRODUCTION

Tractor Drawn Aerials present special training requirements for truck firefighters. These trucks have a steering axle at the rear end of the trailer. This is referred to as the tiller axle. The word “tiller” is commonly used in reference to the lever that turns the rudder of a boat from side to side. Imagining the way a boat responds to the movement of a rudder will help visualize the response of the trailer when the tiller wheels are turned. The person that steers the tiller is called a Tiller Operator and the seat provided from which to steer is called the tiller seat or “tiller bucket.” The responsibility of driving a Tractor Drawn Aerial Truck is divided between the Engineer and Tiller Operator. There is, perhaps, no other activity in the fire service which catches the interest of an observer more quickly than the work of a tiller operator when a ladder truck responds to an alarm. The public is always thrilled by the sight of the ladder truck maneuvering in and out of traffic with the Tiller Operator negotiating turns that appear impossible. There is, however, much more to the Tiller Operator’s job than steering and maneuvering the trailer of a ladder truck.

ENGINEER-TILLER OPERATOR TEAM WORK

The Engineer and the Tiller Operator of a tractor trailer ladder truck have a dual responsibility unique among fire department apparatus drivers. The Engineer is responsible for proper maneuvering of the tractor, and the Tiller Operator for the proper lateral control of the trailer. However, both must work together as a team and coordinate their actions to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the tractor and trailer as a unit.

Truck company officers should realize that the Engineer and Tiller Operator who work together will soon learn each other’s operating techniques and thereby develop into an efficient Engineer-Tiller team. Company officers must-recognize and adhere to good, safe driving practices while observing all traffic laws. It is good practice for the regular Engineer of a ladder truck to practice tillering in order to become more familiar with the Tiller Operator’s responsibilities. Any combination of Engineer and Tiller Operator should be capable of handling the apparatus efficiently while working together as a team.

TILLERING

Safe and proper tillering is not just a matter of climbing into the tiller bucket and steering the trailer. The concept of tillering is in some ways the opposite of driving a vehicle. For example, when a driver wants to turn a vehicle, the steering wheel must be turned in that direction. However, when a Tractor Drawn Aerial Ladder Truck makes a turn, the Tiller Operator calculates the need to turn the tiller wheels which could mean steering in the opposite direction of the tractor. This will cause the trailer to swing away from the corner or obstacle allowing the needed clearance. The Tiller Operator will then steer in the direction of the turn and back into an “in-line” position. The candidate will better understand the principle of tillering when he/she studies this manual and begins hands-on training.

STEERING THE TRAILER

Steering correctly and in a timely manner depends on a Tiller Operator’s ability to react properly to the movement of the tractor. Because the Tiller Operator’s seat is in an elevated position, the Tiller Operator has ample view to check the readiness and safety of the crew and proper security of the ladders and equipment. This elevated position also provides the Tiller Operator opportunity to see traffic patterns develop and prepare for any direction the truck might move. Looking at least one-half block ahead of the truck helps avoid being taken by surprise and reacting late to a decision made by the Engineer.

When traveling forward or backward, the Tiller Operator should, whenever possible, keep the trailer wheels parallel to the frame of the trailer and in direct line with the tractor. This is called an “in-line” position.

This is especially important when traveling on wet streets where the danger of skidding is high. When the tractor and trailer are not in line, the width of the apparatus is greatly increased, which also increases the chance of an accident.

The Tiller Operator must not pre-position the trailer for a turn without direct verbal communications with the Engineer (this can be accomplished by the headsets). Pre-positioning the trailer can cause an accident by moving the truck out of an in-line position unnecessarily and possibly in the wrong direction necessitating a severe correction. Additionally, this may cause the Engineer to divert attention from the road ahead to the movement of the trailer.

TRAVELING FORWARD

Normal tractor trailer trucks cannot steer the rear wheels of the trailer. When a vehicle of this type goes around a corner, the rear wheels follow a different path than the front wheels. This is called off- tracking.

When a tiller truck makes the same turn the Tiller Operator can steer the trailer away from the corner or obstacle and track in the same path as the tractor, allowing a narrower width of swept path.

When traveling in a forward direction, correct hand position on the tiller steering wheel is at three and nine o’clock, palms down with thumbs pointing in. Turning the tiller wheel counterclockwise turns the trailer wheels to the left and moves the rear of the trailer to the left. Turning the tiller wheel clockwise moves the trailer wheels and the rear of the trailer to the right. (Figure 2) An easier way to remember this is to use your thumbs as indicators. Moving the steering wheel in one of the directions your thumbs are pointed will move the trailer in the same direction. Feed the steering wheel left or right through your hands as needed. The hand over hand method is not recommended.

(Figure 2)

When the tractor and the trailer are “in-line” and traveling forward, the Tiller Operator should keep the trailer wheels parallel to the frame of the trailer and in a direct line with the tractor. Little movement of the tiller wheel is necessary to accomplish this. Under this condition it is normally only necessary for the tiller operator to control the “drift” of the trailer to one side or another, similar to the drift which occurs when driving a passenger car forward.

When making a turn, or when required to weave in and out of traffic on an emergency response, the Tiller Operator should keep the trailer “in-line” as much as possible, turning the trailer wheels only enough to maintain adequate clearances. To negotiate turns where traffic is congested by stopped or parked vehicles, or where narrow streets are involved, the Tiller Operator will find it necessary to steer the trailer. To accomplish this task the Tiller Operator must first steer the trailer away from the turn. This will allow the trailer to track away from the corner or obstacle. Remember, “STEER AWAY FROM DANGER” in most situations. Once the trailer has cleared the corner or obstacle, the Tiller Operator must complete a smooth recovery by turning the tiller wheel in the direction of travel, back to an “in-line” position, and maintain proper tractor trailer alignment.

It is essential that the Tiller Operator be alert to conditions on the street ahead whenever the apparatus is traveling. Particular attention should be given to commercial trucks and buses because of their height. Precaution should be taken due to the angle of descent the trailer imposes. The Tiller Operator who is alert and anticipates situations that may develop can plan compensatory measures sufficiently in advance to prevent an accident.

It is the duty of all members of a truck company, as well as that of the Engineer and Tiller Operator, to keep a sharp lookout for any overhead obstructions that could injure the Tiller Operator or damage the apparatus.

INTERSECTIONS

Particular care and alertness must be exercised by the Engineer and the Tiller Operator at intersections. If the intersection is clear and the streets are wide, a right or left turn should not be difficult if the Engineer steers the tractor into a wide turn. If the traffic is heavy or the streets are narrow, extra precaution and good judgment must be used, and the Tiller Operator must keep constantly aware of vehicles on each side and to the rear of the apparatus. Even after starting into a turn, developments may occur which will require the Tiller Operator to maneuver the overhang of the trailer into the clear.

On most intersection turns, the trailer will track and follow the tractor without an excessive amount of tillering. When approaching a turn at an intersection, the Tiller Operator should anticipate whether additional traffic lane space will be required to make the turn. If necessary, the Tiller Operator can partially block a line of traffic from the rear by steering the trailer slightly into whichever lane it is necessary to keep clear. When it is necessary to steer the trailer away from a corner when making a turn at an intersection, the Tiller Operator should start turning away from the corner about the time the front tractor wheels first enter the intersection. This maneuver will prevent over-running the “in-line” position and will compensate for the centrifugal force of the turn. It is necessary for the Tiller Operator to judge and maintain proper side clearance on any turn, sufficient to permit safe passage of the rear overhang of the trailer.

If at any time there is doubt regarding safe clearance, the Tiller Operator should immediately signal the Engineer to “STOP.”

OVER STEERING

“OVER STEERING” means allowing the trailer to move well past an “in-line” position after the turn is completed (Figure 3). To avoid this, it is important to begin straightening the tiller wheels before the truck has completed the turn. If you do not, the trailer can go past center and the inertia set up by the trailer swinging wide will make it harder to recover.

(FIGURE 3)

Some Tiller Operators find it helpful to count the number of (steering wheel) turns made one way and reverse that number in the other direction as the Engineer completes a maneuver. This is not recommended because some maneuvers consist of more than one directional change, such as an “S” type turn, causing confusion as to how many turns were made in each direction. Another method is to note the steering wheel position when the truck leaves the station (assuming the trailer tires are aligned when the tiller Operator gets into the tiller bucket). After completing a maneuver, bring the trailer back to an “in-line” position. Then take a quick reference look at the steering wheel to be sure it is in the same position. This method will only give you an “in the ballpark” alignment and should not be relied upon for final alignment. The best method is a visual sensation on an “in-line” alignment. If the Tiller Operator is watching where he/she is going, he/she will know when the trailer is aligned. This will come with experience.

OVER TILLERING

“Over tillering” occurs when Tiller Operators turn the steering wheel unnecessarily. It is the tendency for new Tiller Operators to over tiller because they are not familiar with how the trailer tracks behind the tractor. Additionally, it takes time for the Tiller Operator and the Engineer to develop a comfortable interaction. An experienced Engineer will drive a truck in a manner that limits the need for the Tiller Operator to turn; likewise, an experienced Tiller Operator will not steer unnecessarily. As the Tiller Operator becomes familiar with the driving habits of an Engineer, he/she will be able to correctly judge when and how much to steer.

OVERHANG

Overhang is the portion of the trailer that extends from the center of the trailer wheels (pivot point) to the rear of the trailer (Figure 4). The rear end will swing on the pivot as the truck turns. It is important to allow enough room for the overhang to clear on both sides of the trailer. Awareness of the overhang of the trailer is very important because this is a definite factor in good negotiation of turns with proper clearance distances.

City of Santa Barbara Fire Department

OVERHANG

BLIND SPOTS

There are characteristics in the Tractor Drawn Aerial Ladder Truck design that create blind spots from the Tiller Operator’s position. The area next to and before the tiller wheels are forward blind spots. The area directly behind the Tiller Operator, which cannot be seen in the rear view mirrors, is the rear blind spot (Figure 5). The dimensions of these blind areas very depending upon the year and design of each truck. (FIGURE 5)

Keep Back 300 Feet

3' 6" BLIND SPOTS 3' 6"

Some of the additional blind spots created when the Tiller is stationary in the seat and not aware of the areas of concern.

BACKING

In any backing maneuver of a tractor trailer ladder truck, close coordination must be maintained between the Engineer and Tiller Operator. It is very easy to jackknife the apparatus when backing if close coordination of the Engineer and Tiller Operator is not maintained.

Our trucks are equipped with a jackknife warning alarm that will activate. As soon as this warning device activates, the driver should stop immediately. A Firefighter must get out of the cab and act as a spotter. The spotter should visually inspect to insure clearance between the tractor and trailer are maintained during maneuvering out of jackknife danger and until the warning alarm goes off. Beware; jackknife damage can also occur traveling forward.

In backing operations, the Engineer must control the movement of the truck at a slow, smooth speed. The Engineer must be in a position to stop the truck immediately and steer the tractor so that it tracks the trailer in proper alignment. The Tiller Operator must pay special attention to the position of the tractor, as well as to the clearance on both sides and the rear of the trailer.

When preparing to back the ladder truck, the Engineer will communicate with the tiller Operator. Before answering back, the Tiller Operator makes sure that the area behind and on both sides of the truck are clear. If it is safe to begin backing, signal back to the Engineer.

The Tiller Operator must steer the trailer to the desired location and maintain the wheels in-line when the truck stops. Steering the trailer wheels of a tractor trailer apparatus, when backing, requires the opposite control from that used to steer a single unit apparatus. For example, if the tiller steering wheel is turned to the clockwise, the rear of the trailer will travel to the left; if the tiller steering wheel is turned counterclockwise, the trailer will move to the right. This deviation from conventional steering is one of the many reasons why it is critical to practice tillering in a safe environment.

When backing tiller trucks the Tiller Operator must turn his/her upper body and face to the rear or direction of travel and maintain correct hand placement when backing.

The Tiller Operators hands should be positioned at the bottom of the steering wheel, five and seven o’clock, palms up with thumbs pointing out.

Once again, an easy way to remember which way to turn the steering wheel while backing is to use your thumbs as indicators. For example, if you move the steering wheel in the direction your right thumb is pointing, the trailer will move in the same direction, to the right.

Feed the steering wheel left or right through your hands, as needed. The hand over hand method is not recommended as this can cause an inexperienced operator to become confused. Do not cross your hands! Do not place your hands on top of the steering wheel. This also serves to confuse the operator. Turning the steering wheel from the top while backing will cause the trailer to move in the opposite direction than if pushed from the bottom. 11

If the trailer begins to move in a direction other than what is intended and there is any doubt that the correction cannot be made, immediately signal the Engineer to “STOP.”

COMMUNICATIONS

The headsets allow all members to verbally communicate with one another. These headsets must be on during all operations. Communication is especially helpful between the Engineer and Tiller Operator. The Engineer should constantly apprise the Tiller Operator of his/her intentions during emergency and non- emergency responses. Other members of the truck company must keep talking to a minimum to allow for this communication.

The headsets are an effective tool when used properly. However, some limitations of the headsets include, but are not limited to:

1. Communicating over headsets can be impeded by high radio activity. 2. The Tiller Operator’s headset microphone may be turned off. 3. The headset system may have been inadvertently turned off. 4. During an emergency response the sirens of following apparatus may be picked up by the Tiller Operator’s microphone preventing the Engineer from hearing.

The signal button is also a means of communication that all members are trained to use and respond to. The recognized method of signaling is as follows:

1. One beep: STOP immediately 2. Two beeps: Move forward 3. Three beeps: Reverse

All signals shall be repeated by the person receiving the signal to let the sender know it was received and understood.

BEFORE RESPONSE

When assigned to the Tiller Operator position, a good routine should be established to check for readiness of response. Following the routine the same way every time, will help eliminate overlooking any important checks. The routine check should include the following:

1. Place turnout gear on the truck;

2. Check the direction of the tiller wheels to assure they are in-line;

3. Climb up into the tiller seat and adjust the tiller seat and mirrors;

4. Check seat belt and headset; 12

5. Ensure all truck doors and equipment are secure; Make face-to-face contact with the off-going Tiller Operator. This allows for the exchange of important information.

RESPONDING ON EMERGENCY CALLS

After the alarm has sounded certain tasks should be performed prior to responding to the call. Once again, establishing a good routine will help avoid potential accidents. Tasks should include the following:

1. Visually check both sides of the truck and the rear end. This will insure all compartments are closed, all equipment and ladders are secure and the path of travel is clear.

2. Check the direction of the tiller wheels. If they are in a position other than straight, remember to compensate as the truck begins to move forward.

3. Climb up on the seat, fasten seat belt, place headset on.

4. After receiving a signal from the Engineer to start the truck, depress and hold the tiller’s start button down until the truck starts.

5. After the truck is started and ready to move forward, the Engineer will signal the Tiller Operator. If all checks are complete and movement can be done safely, the Tiller Operator will respond back to the Engineer.

Place both hands on the steering wheel in the recommended nine and three o’clock positions. As the truck moves forward, make any compensation required to align the trailer with the tractor. The Tiller Operator should also be aware of any obstructions that may become apparent as the truck begins moving (e.g., overhead doors coming down, crew members not ready). If an obstruction is noticed, the Tiller Operator should signal to the engineer for an immediate stop. As the truck moves past the apparatus doors, the Tiller Operator should keep the trailer centered. After the truck moves into the street, the Tiller Operator is responsible for closing the apparatus door, if it is safe to do so. Remember steer only as necessary. Otherwise;

“Keep the trailer “in-line” with the tractor at all times”.

CONSIDERATION FOR APPARATUS PLACEMENT

Tiller Operator’s consideration will vary on the type of incident to which the truck company is responding. For instance, when arriving at a structure fire in a single family dwelling, ground ladders may be needed; therefore, the ladder bay must remain clear. The Tiller Operator should consider positioning the trailer from the “in-line” position to an angle that prevents the ladder bay from being blocked by other fire apparatus or vehicles. All ground ladders must remain accessible during an emergency incident. Consideration must also be given to leave the street accessible for other apparatus.

When the truck company arrives on scene at an apartment or large commercial building fire, the aerial ladder may be used to access the roof. The truck will usually remain in the “in-line” position. In any case, communicate with the Engineer and follow directions.

SAFETY POINT:

During an emergency response, it is important that the Tiller Operator remains seated and belted until the truck comes to a complete stop. The Captain will request the Tiller Operator’s assistance if needed. This will prevent delay in repositioning the apparatus and avert the possibility of moving the apparatus without a Tiller Operator.

SUMMARY OF SAFE TILLERING

The key factors for safe tillering are re-emphasized in the following points:

1. Maneuvering the direction of the tiller wheels correctly 2. Proper Engineer-Tiller Operator signaling 3. Keeping the trailer in-line with the tractor on straight roadways 4. Bringing the trailer back in-line with the tractor as soon as turns are completed 5. Avoiding rough and over-tillering 6. Being continuously aware of the trailer overhang when making turns 7. Verbally acknowledge overhead hazards while driving, parking, and preparing for ladder operations. 8. Utilizing and understanding proper nomenclature is critical for a safe and efficient operation. “Kick me”, “Follow me’, “Crab right” are a few examples.

Awareness of the overhang of the trailer is very important because this is a definite factor in good negotiation of turn with proper clearance distances.

CONCLUSION

The Tiller Operator’s assignment carries a great deal of responsibility. As discussed in this manual, much more is involved than simply climbing into the seat and turning the steering wheel. Tillering is a skill that develops with time and proper training. It is important to note the material in this manual covers basic Tiller Operator driving responsibilities and does not address the emergency incident responsibilities of truck personnel. Nor does it address any defensive/Code 3 driving classes, or any other responsibilities that may be required by the Santa Barbara City Fire Department, or any other outside agency.

DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES

Driver Operators must have a good understanding of the following areas regarding the operation of Fire Department vehicles:

1. Department personnel shall be familiar with all of the information in the Vehicle Operator's Handbook.

2. Driver Safety Procedures.

3. Discusses tactical guidelines for apparatus placement.

4. Vehicle Operators Handbook – a. Describes proper defensive driving techniques b. Provides an awards program for outstanding driver achievement c. Describes proper actions for an employee to take if involved in an accident d. Explains how to properly complete an accident report e. Describes procedures the department will follow if an employee is involved in an accident.

5. Tiller operators are required to obtain a class “C” license with a FIREGHTER endorsement prior to on the road tiller training.

DIMINISHING CLEARANCE DRIVING EXERCISE

This exercise teaches the driver depth perception and handling characteristics of fire department apparatus. It reinforces the employee’s mental and physical reactions required to avoid accidents, which will result in the prevention of apparatus damage and possible injury or death.

The diminishing clearance exercise measures a driver’s ability to steer the apparatus in a diminishing straight line, and to judge distances from wheel to object. The course for this exercise is arranged by two rows of markers that form a lane at least 100 feet long. The lane narrows from a width of two (2) feet wider than the vehicle to a diminishing clearance of four (4) inches. The driver must maneuver the apparatus through this lane without touching the cones.

100 100’ 100’ ’

9'3" 10'

Forward

Backward

This evolution is arranged with two rows of markers that form a lane 160 feet long. The lane narrows from a width of 10 feet to a diminishing clearance of 9 feet 3 inches. The driver and tiller operator must maneuver the apparatus through this lane without touching the markers. The driver must stop the apparatus within 6 inches of the finish line. At the signal of the proctor, the driver and tiller operator will back the apparatus out of the lane without touching the markers. If the driver hits the front bumper into the finish line, the event is failed.

SERPENTINE DRIVING EXERCISE

Knowing the turning capabilities and clearances of the apparatus is essential for any driver. This exercise simulates maneuvering around parked or stopped vehicles and tight corners. It reinforces the employee’s mental and physical reactions required to avoid accident, which will result in the prevention of apparatus damage and possible injury or death.

First Circuit: Starting the first circuit, the driver is required to drive the apparatus along the left side of the markers in a straight line and stop just beyond the No. 1 marker. Then in one continuous motion, the driver and tiller operator must back the apparatus between the markers. Start by passing to the left of No. 1, to the right of No. 2, to the left of No. 3, and to the right of No. 4. At this point, the driver and tiller operator must stop the vehicle just beyond the last marker. Next, drive the apparatus forward between the markers by passing to the left of No. 4, to the right of No. 3, to the left of No. 2, and the right of No. 1.

Second Circuit: After completing the first circuit, the driver and tiller operator must complete a second circuit, which is the opposite as the first circuit. Drive the apparatus along the right side of the markers in a straight line and stop just beyond the No. 1 marker. Continue the circuit, passing the markers on the opposite side as the first circuit.

2 1

Forward

Start on left side of markers traveling forward - an area of approximately 40’ x 224’ is required for the Tiller Quint

OFFSET ALLEY DRIVING EXERCISE

This exercise teaches the driver depth perception and the handling characteristics of fire department apparatus. It reinforces the employee’s mental and physical reactions required to avoid accidents, which will result in the prevention of apparatus damage and possible injury or death.

The offset alley driving exercise is designed to test the driver’s capabilities of quickly changing lane positions which may occur due to changing traffic conditions. The course is composed of two turns, where the barriers are set at close tolerances to the apparatus. The course is set up to compensate for vehicle width and length. The first jog shall have a distance equal to the vehicle length. The second jog shall also be the vehicle length. Distance between the two jogs shall be equal to the vehicle length. Width of the driving lanes is 11 feet. 50’

100 11' 6"

Length +6’ 11' 6"

Forward

Backward

The driver shall first drive forward through the course, then will drive backwards through the course. There is no set speed established for this maneuver, but should be driven in a constant, deliberate manner.

First, the driver and tiller operator will maneuver the apparatus forward through the lanes in one continuous motion without touching any markers and stop after the apparatus has cleared the alley. At the signal of the proctor, the driver and tiller operator will back the apparatus through the lanes in one continuous motion without touching any markers and stop after the apparatus has cleared the alley

TURN-AROUND DRIVING EXERCISE Drivers of fire department apparatus are often required to turn around in limited space either for a change of direction, or to spot at an emergency scene. This exercise offers the driver an understanding of the limitations of the turning radius required for apparatus turn-around. Fire apparatus often needs to be turned around to complete an operation. This turning around exercise helps to develop a driver’s ability to properly spot apparatus for operations. Although turning fire apparatus around may not be difficult in adequate space, it becomes more complicated in narrow streets or intersections. However, if street width is adequate and if traffic conditions permit, the U-turn may be used. The measurements for this course are based on the actual lengths and widths of each apparatus to be driven. (See diagram for measurements)

TURN-AROUND DRIVING EXERCISE

F I N I S H S

T A

R T

Forward

The driver and tiller operator will drive forward and stop just pass the intersection. Then back the apparatus into the right lane of the intersecting lane. Proceeding forward, they will make a left turn and travel in the opposite direction that they were originally traveling.

STALL PARKING/STATION APPARATUS BACKING DRIVING EXERCISE

Backing of apparatus into an alley or a parking stall is a very important task of the fire department driver. Apparatus must be properly positioned prior to accomplishment of this task. This exercise will offer the driver an example of the judgment that is necessary to perform the alley dock maneuver successfully.

The alley dock driving exercise tests the driver’s ability to move a vehicle backwards from a non- restricted area, into a restricted area such as an alley, dock or fire station. This exercise demonstrates the difficulties involved in backing the vehicle without striking walls or boundaries, and to bring the vehicle to a stop close to the rear wall.

The boundary lines developed for this exercise are to simulate driving forward on a street, stopping and backing into a driveway or alley. The street width is to be a minimum of 30 feet wide, similar to the distance of a four lane street. Perpendicular to the street is an alley 14 feet wide and the length of the apparatus deep. The procedure for driving the exercise is to drive past the alley, stop and then back the vehicle into the alley, stopping before the rear boundary line. Back up guides shall be used during the exercise.

PARALLEL PARKING

70’

12 18" maximum

Forward

Backward

Parallel Parking Evolution -

The driver and tiller operator will drive forward into the parking space using the "crabbing" technique and stop the apparatus at the forward cones of the marked parking space. They will back the apparatus in one continuous motion to align the apparatus along the curb line. The apparatus should be within 18" of the curb when parked. Hitting course markers to the front or rear is an event failure.

FORWARD STOP / STRAIGHT LINE BACKING

100’ 100’

10'

Constant Speed Zone Stop within

Forward

Backward

Forward Stop / Straight Line Backing -

The driver and tiller operator will drive forward between two rows of markers. They must maneuver the apparatus through this lane without touching the markers and stop the apparatus within 6 inches of the cones. At the signal of the proctor, the driver and tiller operator will back the apparatus out of the lane in a straight line without touching the markers.

MEASURED RIGHT TURN

80'

30’

24"

20'

Measured Right Turn Evolution:

The driver and tiller operator will drive forward through a 30' wide lane. At the end of the lane, they will make a right turn into a lane 20' wide. The rear wheel of the tractor and the wheel of the tiller must be within 24 inches of the cone located at the inside corner of the turn. The driver and tiller operator must maneuver the apparatus through the lanes without stopping or touching the markers. Touching the inside corner marker is an event failure.

STREET DRIVING

Prior to being certified to drive the tiller, driver/tiller operators will drive a specific street course to demonstrate their ability to operate the apparatus on public thoroughfares. In preparation of the Street Course Test, driver/tiller operators should only be allowed to operate on public thoroughfares after they have successfully completed the Rodeo Skills Manipulative. The driver/tiller operator's street driving should cover all the usual and expected driving conditions.

As a minimum, the Street Course Test for certification will include at least the following elements:

1. Four left and right turns

2. A straight section of urban business street or two-lane rural road at least one mile in length

3. One through intersection and two intersections where a stop is required

4. A railroad crossing

5. One curve , either left or right

6. A section of limited-access highway that is long enough to allow for at least two lane changes and includes a conventional on-ramp and off-ramp

7. A downgrade that is steep enough and long enough to require gear changing to maintain speed

8. An upgrade that is steep enough and long enough to require gear changing to maintain speed

9. One underpass, low-clearance bridge

10. Apparatus backing

11. Turn around

12. U-turn