Uphill and downhill gradeability of log trucks with short log trailers

Abstract

The use of cut-to-length systems has increased the use of short log truck and trailers in the western United States and elsewhere. The equations for uphill and downhill gradeability for loaded short log truck and trailer units are derived under conditions of nonturning motion. A sensitivity analysis shows both uphill and downhill gradeability of the short log truck and trailer is highly affected by the load distribution and is also affected by the angle of the tongue between the tractor and trailer. © 2004 by the Society of American Foresters.