Heil Trailer International, Co.

ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OSHAS 18001 - Certified

Crude Oil Trailer
Owner’s/Operator’s Manual

© 2012 by Heil Trailer International, Co. All Rights Reserved

This manual is intended to help ensure the safe and efficient operation
of your Heil Trailer and products. IF INCORRECTLY USED, OPERATED,
MAINTAINED OR REPAIRED, THIS EQUIPMENT CAN CAUSE SEVERE
INJURY, DEATH AND PROPERTY DAMAGE. THOSE WHO USE, OPERATE,
MAINTAIN AND REPAIR THE EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE TRAINED IN ITS
PROPER USE, OPERATION, MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR, WARNED OF
ITS DANGERS, AND SHOULD READ THIS ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO USE, OPERATE, MAINTAIN, SET UP, ADJUST, SERVICE
OR REPAIR THE TRAILER OR PRODUCT. Recommended operating
practices furnished in this manual are general practices. Heil Trailer
International, Co. cannot possibly know, evaluate, or advise anyone of
all conceivable ways a Heil trailer or product might be used, operated,
maintained, set up, adjusted, repaired or of all possible consequences
of each way. ALL PERSONS WHO PERFORM ANY OF THESE TASKS
MUST FIRST SATISFY THEMSELVES THOROUGHLY THAT NEITHER
THEIR SAFETY OR THE SAFETY OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC WILL BE
JEOPARDIZED BY ANY METHOD THEY SELECT. KEEP THIS MANUAL
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

Image Disclaimer
The pictures and images contained in this manual portray both standard and
non-standard (optional) equipment to meet specific customer needs. These
pictures are used for referencing components and general nomenclature of a
Heil crude oil transport tank. Your trailer may or may not have the
components shown in this manual.

2

WARRANTY STATEMENT
Heil Trailer International, Co. warrants trailers sold by us to be free from defects in
material and workmanship. This coverage is subject to and limited to coverage periods listed in the Heil Trailer International Limited Silver Warranty Sub Part A - Limitations document and as defined in the Heil Trailer International Limited Warranty
Sub Part B – Definitions document. Our obligation and liability under this Warranty
is expressly limited to repairing or replacing, at our option, within the coverage time
limitations listed in the Heil Trailer International Limited Silver Warranty Sub Part A
- Limitations document, from the date of shipment any defective product except for
maintenance items, tires, and purchased items which are warranted separately by
the original manufacturer. Any repair(s) determined by Heil Trailer International,
Co. at our sole discretion, to be major or critical to the structural integrity of any
trailer at any time whatsoever during the warranty period must be performed at a
Heil Trailer Certified Service Center as determined by Heil Trailer International, Co.
Repairs not performed in a Certified Service Center once directed by Heil Trailer
International, Co. will void this warranty. A failure that is determined by Heil Trailer
International, Co., at our sole discretion, to be caused by wear and tear or misuse
as opposed to product defect is not covered at any time in the warranty period. WE
MAKE NO OTHER WARRANTY, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND MAKE NO WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Our obligation
under this warranty shall not include any transportation charges, or any liability for
direct, indirect or consequential damage, loss of profits or delay. Any Improper use,
operation beyond rated capacity, substitution of parts not approved by us, or any
alteration or repair by others in such manner as in our judgment affects the product
materially and adversely shall void this warranty. NO EMPLOYEE OR REPRESENTATIVE IS AUTHORIZED TO CHANGE THIS WARRANTY IN ANY WAY OR GRANT ANY
OTHER WARRANTY WITHOUT THE WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION OF AN OFFICER OF
HEIL TRAILER INTERNATIONAL, CO.
Heil Trailer International, Co. warrants that this trailer is manufactured in accordance with the specifications of the order. Heil Trailer International, Co. does not
warrant this piece of equipment for use in hauling any specific product. Heil Trailer
International, Co. accepts no responsibility for damage to the equipment, or for
cargo losses due to an adverse affect on the equipment, caused by the incompatibility of the product being hauled in the trailer. Where Tanks are prepared for lining,
all agreements, billing included, that concern the tank barrel lining will be the responsibility of the customer and the lining company. In this connection, Heil Trailer
International, Co. makes no warranty of products, including lining manufactured
and /or installed by others, the same being subject to warranties, if any, of their
respective manufacturers or installers. The customer shall bear the risk for damage
or loss to the tank or injury to property or persons while the tank is either at or in
transit to or from the lining company.
Warranty will be paid only if Heil Trailer International, Co. procedures for filing warranty claims are followed. Pre-approval prior to any repairs is a mandatory requirement for receiving payment along with strict adherence to all other conditions of the
procedures. Warranty repairs will only be permitted at Heil Trailer International, Co.
approved, authorized, or certified service centers.

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL
Introduction.............................................................................................................5
Warranty Claims and Inquiries.............................................................................5
Directional Reference.............................................................................................5
Important Safety Messages....................................................................6 thru 15
General Nomenclature

........................................................................... 16

thru 20

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Pre-trip and Tractor

............................................................................. 21

thru 24

Operating Pressure......................................................................................25
Vapor Recovery..............................................................................25
Venting............................................................................................. ...........26
Loading Instructions

............................................................................ 27

Unloading Instructions

........................................................................ 31

Overfill Protection System
Landing Gear

thru 30
thru 33

................................................................................34

....................................................................................................... 35

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Introduction....................................................................................36
Delivery Inspection...........................................................................36
Maintenance Schedule............................................................37 thru 38
Lubrication and Service Chart.................................................39 thru 40
Brakes (Maintenance & Adjusting)...........................................41 thru 42
Roll Over Protection and ABS..................................................43 thru 48
Wheel Bearing and Seals.......................................................49 thru 51
Tank Liner......................................................................................52
Tires and Wheels..................................................................52 thru 53
Axle Alignment.....................................................................54 thru 57
Suspension..........................................................................58 thru 61
Torque Chart..................................................................................62
Notes.............................................................................................63
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS and SPILLS………..Inside Back Cover

Publication Disclaimer
The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for
printing. Heil Trailer International, Co. Athens, TN USA reserves the right, however, to discontinue or
change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation
whatsoever. Revision 6/2012.

4

INTRODUCTION
This manual is designed to help ensure safe and efficient operation of the Heil
Trailer International, Inc. Crude Oil Transport.
The book is divided into three sections. Part 1 will familiarize you with the unit.
Part 2 gives operating procedures and tips. Part 3 covers the maintenance
necessary to keep the unit in safe operating condition.
TO THE OWNER

We at the Heil Trailer International, Co. take pride in the products we manufacture. We trust you will be well satisfied with your purchase. Properly operated
and maintained, the Crude Oil Transport will provide many years of low-cost,
trouble-free service.
WARRANTY CLAIMS & INQUIRIES

The Heil Trailer Standard Warranty is included in this manual. In the unlikely
event you need warranty service on your tank equipment purchased from Heil
Trailer International, Co. or its distributors, contact the distributor or Heil
Trailer International, Co. (800-400-6913) directly, for service and repair
procedures.
For all parts, claims or inquiries refer to the model and serial number of your
unit. This information is found on the identification plate (See Figure 1).

Figure 1. Example Identification Plate

DIRECTIONAL REFERENCE

For your reference the sides of the tank transport are determined by facing in
the direction of forward travel. The right side is the “Curbside”; the left side is
the “Roadside or Streetside”.

5

IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES

THESE SAFETY ALERT SYMBOLS INDICATE
IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES THROUGHOUT THIS MANUAL.
WHEN YOU SEE THESE SYMBOLS,
CAREFULLY READ THE MESSAGES THAT
FOLLOW AND BE ALERT TO THE
POSSIBILITY OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND/OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE, PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS.
6

IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES

7

IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES

8

IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES

9

IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES

10

IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES

11

IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES

12

SAFETY DECALS

13

SAFETY DECALS

14

SAFETY DECALS

15

GENERAL NOMENCLATURE
REAR VIEW

Figure 2.
1. MUDFLAP
2. REAR BUMPER
3. REAR PLACARD HOLDER
4. TOW HOOK
5. HOSE TUBE
6. JUNCTION BOX
7. FENDER
16

GENERAL NOMENCLATURE
FRONT VIEW

Figure 3.
8. HOSE HOOK
9. FRONT PLACARD HOLDER
10. NOSE BOX/GLADHANDS
11. EMERGENCY DRAIN LOCATION DECAL
12. HYDRAULIC LINES
13. 5th WHEEL PLATE & KINGPIN
14. EMERGENCY SHUTOFF VALVE
17

GENERAL NOMENCLATURE
TOP VIEW

Figure 4.
15. PRESSURE/VACUUM VENT
16. VAPOR RECOVERY VENT
17. OVERFILL PROBE
18. SPILLDAM
19. OVERTURN CLEANOUT
20. MANHOLE

18

GENERAL NOMENCLATURE
PRODUCT PIPING VIEW

Figure 5.

21. VAPOR RECOVERY OUTLET
22. EMERGENCY VALVE
23. PRODUCT PIPING
24. GRAVITY OUTLET VALVE
25. PRESSURE OUTLET VALVE
26. ROLLER BEARING PUMP
27. MECHANICAL OPERATOR
28. HYDRAULIC DIRECTIONAL
CONTROL VALVE

19

GENERAL NOMENCLATURE
SIDE VIEW

Figure 6.
29. AXLE/HUBS/WHEEL SEALS/DRUM/TIRES
30. STORAGE CABINET
31. HOSE TUBE
32. TANK VESSEL
33. LANDING LEG
34. PRODUCT PIPING
35. OVERFILL SYSTEM

20

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
PRE-TRIP INSPECTION
Before each trip, for your safety and that of the motoring public, your crude oil
transport tank should be inspected by a person trained and familiar with the
operations and functions of the tank and, to ensure proper and safe operation,
proper corrective action should be taken in all of the following areas:

1. TIRES - Check for cuts, bruises, tread wear, and improper air pressure.
2. RIMS AND WHEELS - Check for cracks and deformation.
3. BRAKE SYSTEMS - Check for air leakage with and without service brakes
applied. Check for damaged, worn or cracked brake hoses and drums.
4. LANDING GEAR - Ensure all braces are intact and the gear is operable in the
event it is needed due to a breakdown en route.
5. EQUIPMENT SECURITY - Ensure the spare tire, hoses, tools, fittings, and
emergency equipment are properly secured in their respective compartments with chains, latches, etc., in good restraining condition.
6. LADDER AND WALKWAY - Ensure all ladder bolts are tight. See Torque
Chart on page 62. Ensure non skid material is present and in good shape.
7. LIGHTING SYSTEM - Ensure all lights perform their proper function and are
clearly visible.
8. UPPER 5TH WHEEL - Ensure the 5th wheel plate is properly lubricated and is
free of measurable thinning, gouges, or unusual distortion. Ensure tightness of the bolts fastening the plate assembly to the frame.
9. KINGPIN - Check the kingpin for wear. Do not exceed allowable wear.
10. TRACTOR ELECTRICAL CABLE AND AIR HOSES - Ensure electrical cable
and air hosts are free of cuts and abrasions
11. ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE - Check tractor cable receptacle for good
electrical contact and mechanical security.
12. TRACTOR WIRING - Ensure the tractor is wired per TTMA TB No. 119.

21

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
HOOKING TRACTOR TO TRAILER
Prior to backing the tractor under the trailer, check the following items:
1. Trailer brakes are set or wheels blocked to prevent trailer from rolling.
2. Upper 5th wheel is at approximate height of lower 5th wheel.
3. Latch on lower 5th wheel is on the FULLY OPEN position.
4. Adequate clearance exists between the tractor frame and all parts of the tank.
5. All personnel are clear of the area.

Then proceed as follows:
1. Back the tractor under the trailer, aligning the king pin with the slot in the
lower 5th wheel. When the latch locks around the king pin, check the
hookup by attempting to pull forward.
2. Apply the parking brake (ensure proper operation) and shut down the
engine.
3. Double check the latch on the 5th wheel to ensure it is fully engaged.
4. Connect the tractor supply and control brake hoses to the glad hands on
the trailer (the glad hands are marked for correct installation).
5. Connect the electrical connector to the receptacle on the trailer.
6. Raise the landing gear legs (see page 35).
7. Check the brakes and lights for proper operation.

NOTICE
All operating and loading procedures outlined in this manual are general
practices. Heil does not know, evaluate or advise anyone of all conceivable
methods to load, unload or operate a crude oil transport, or the possible
consequences of each way.

22

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATING TRACTOR WITH TANK TRAILER ATTACHED
OVER-THE-ROAD SAFE HANDLING INFORMATION
Crude Oil tank trailers are used to carry products that are hazardous and
flammable. Only properly licensed and qualified drivers are permitted to
operate a tractor trailer combination. When operating a tank trailer loaded with
a hazardous material, you have a double obligation to yourself and to the
public to drive safely.
Traffic accidents that cause a spill can turn into disasters including explosions
and environmental damage. YOU - THE OPERATOR - have control over the
most important factors that affect vehicle stability. The tank trailer is an
important tool in our transportation industry, and, like any tool, is safe in the
hands of a qualified operator.
HANDLING PARTIALLY LOADED TANKS

It is an accepted fact that liquid tanks filled to their normal capacity (with 5%
outage or less) handle essentially the same as a similar vehicle with a solid
load. However, as the tanks are partially loaded due to product density or legal
requirements, mobility of the load or "sloshing" can be detected and must be
taken into account when establishing safe driving practices. In general, a
partially loaded tank will be less stable under cornering and braking conditions
than an ordinary liquid tank loaded to its normal capacity. This factor must be
given full consideration when determining the handling characteristics of the
unit and establishing the knowledge required for safe driving of the unit. A
specific suggestion is that the driver of a downloaded tank should learn the
characteristics of the load and handle his/her braking efforts accordingly for
smoothest stopping. It is also a good practice to keep the brakes on full for a
few moments after coming to a stop to avoid vehicle movement in the event
that the braking sequence has developed a wave action inside of the tank.

23

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATING TRACTOR WITH TANK TRAILER ATTACHED
DRIVING INSTRUCTIONS
When driving a tractor and tank trailer, the overall length of the unit must be
kept in mind while passing other vehicles and while turning. Because the unit is
"hinged in the middle", turning, parking, and sight range are affected.
TURNING INSTRUCTIONS
When turning corners, remember that the tank trailer has a larger turning radius
than the tractor. To make a right turn at a road intersection, it is necessary for
the tractor to continue forward to about the center of the crossroads and then
turn sharply to the right to allow for the larger turning radius of the tank trailer.
If the tank trailer is to be backed to the right, the steering wheel of the tractor
should be turned to the left or counterclockwise. The front of the tank trailer will
be pushed to the left and the tank trailer wheels will steer to the right.

STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS
In normal operation, the brakes of the tractor and those of the tank trailer are
applied at the same time. Brake pressure should be applied gradually and
smoothly.

PARKING INSTRUCTIONS
When the tractor-with-trailer combination is to be parked and left unattended,
set the parking brake on the tractor firmly. Tractors equipped with an air
suspension dump valve should release air bags to prevent trailer from moving.

UNHOOKING TANK TRAILER FROM TRACTOR
1. Disconnect the tractor supply and control brake hoses from the glad-hands
on the tank trailer. The tank trailer spring brakes will set automatically when
the supply (emergency) air brake hose is uncoupled.
2. Drain any water from the air reservoir by pulling the cord attached to the
drain valve at the bottom of the air reservoir.
3. Disconnect the electrical cable from the receptacle on the tank trailer.
4. Lower the landing gear legs (See Page 35).
5. Release the tank trailer kingpin from the tractors 5th wheel latch.
6.

Pull the tractor out from under the tank trailer, allowing the trailer to lower
slowly until the landing gear shoes are firmly on the ground.

24

OPERATING PRESSURE

Bulkheads During Normal Operation

Bulkheads During Abnormal
Operation With High Vacuum

Bulkheads During Abnormal
Operation With High Pressure

Figure 7. Pressure Effect on Bulkheads
Your crude oil transport is designed to operate between 25 psi and 35 psi. The
venting system is designed to support operations within the allowable operating
pressures. All vents and vent system components should be maintained and
tested to ensure proper operation. Be certain to remove all caps and open all
manual valves that would create a pressure outside of the allowable operating
pressures.
Failure to follow this procedure will result in pressures that are outside the
allowable pressures of the tank and will produce an unsafe work environment.
Failure to do so may result in severe damage to the tank, including buckled
(reversed) bulkheads. Your trailer is equipped with the following warning
labels to highlight the danger of the situation.

VAPOR RECOVERY
The vapor recovery system allows the exchange of vapor between the crude oil
tank and storage tank(s) therefore limiting the volume of vapor that is released
into the atmosphere. While filling the tank, vapor will flow from the crude oil
tank into the vapor recovery system and back to the storage facility. Be certain
to remove all caps and open all valves that would create a blockage or otherwise
restrict the flow of the vapor. Be aware of the types of fittings on the vapor line,
as some (such as optional dry break) may need a special tool at the storage
facility to open.

25

VENTING
DOT 407 specification crude oil transport tanks are equipped with a pressure
relief vent that is designed to operate between 25 psi to 35 psi pressure and 4
to 10 in Hg vacuum. The standard crude oil trailer is equipped with a springloaded, dual-acting pressure and vacuum vent. On tanks transporting crude oil
this vent provides much needed protection from dangerous build-up of positive
and negative forces, known as pressure and vacuum. All vents and vent
system components should be maintained and tested to ensure proper
operation.
NOTICE
For more information reference the vent manufacturer’s web literature or call
their customer support.
VACUUM FLOW

PRESSURE FLOW

Figure 8. Pressure Vacuum Vent Operation
26

PRE-LOADING INSTRUCTIONS
PRECAUTIONS TO OBSERVE BEFORE LOADING

1. Ensure all product discharge valves and emergency valves are in operating
order and are closed. The remote emergency valve control (usually located
at the front of the tank) should be functional and the fusible link in the
emergency valve operator should be in place.
2. Ensure the correct commodity placards are in place.
3. Ensure the manhole cover gasket is intact and the closing mechanism
functions properly to secure the lid tightly.
4. Ensure the unit is equipped with spring loaded emergency venting.
5. Ensure the tank is clean, since some products can react violently when
mixed.
6. Know the nominal capacity of the compartment and the commodity
capacity of the tank to avoid spillage due to overfilling.
7. CFR 173.24b requires that there be enough outage to allow for expansion
due to any rise in product temperature during transit. In no case is this to
be less than 1% for flammable liquids.
8. If the unit is to be bottom loaded and is not equipped with a positive vent
or PAF, open the top fill cover or the manhole before loading.
9. Always set parking brake before loading.
10. Ground/Bound tank to the storage facility.
11. Do not load the vehicle beyond the maximum product load specified on the
metal specification plate or on the vehicle vin plate which specifies the
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR is the maximum allowable
total weight of the vehicle, payload, fuel, driver and equipment on the
vehicle(s).

27

PARTIAL LOADING
The recommendations concerning the partial loading of compartmented tanks
are illustrated below. These procedures are intended to minimize surging of
product and to maximize traction of the tractor trailer combination while in
transportation.

Recommended

Not Recommended Push crank handle in for high gear.
> Pull crank handle out for low gear.
> Turn crank: Counterclockwise to Retract, Clockwise to Extend.

35

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
INTRODUCTION
Lubrication and service performed at regular intervals will keep the
crude oil transport in top operating condition for the longest period of
time. The importance of regular inspection cannot be over-emphasized.
Making necessary adjustments, tightening nuts and bolts, checking air
lines, lights and wiring connections will help prevent serious trouble and
delays on the road.
The driver should be the first line of defense in Preventive Maintenance.
A conscientious and alert operator will promptly report all need for
adjustment or repair. A vehicle safety check should be performed daily
prior to operation.

LUBRICANTS
It is not the policy of the Heil Trailer International, Co. to guarantee
lubricant performance. The responsibility for the quality of any lubricant
rests solely with the distributor or manufacturer of the lubricant.

DELIVERY INSPECTION
All units are thoroughly tested and inspected at the factory. As an
added precaution, the following items should be double checked upon
delivery.
Axle……………………………….…………………………….… Check king pin alignment
Wheels………………………………………………………………...Check wheel lug torque
Brakes.………………………….……Check for proper operation and adjustment
Lights and Wiring…………………………………Check lights for proper operation
Air Spring Bolts…………………………………………………..Check for proper torque
Shock Absorber Bolts…………………………………………Check for proper torque
Suspension Pivot Connection Bolts……………….…Check for proper torque
Piping……………………………………..……………………………………….Check for leaks
Manhole Cover………………Check clamping device for proper cover closure
Landing Leg Support Bolts…….……………………..….Check for proper torque
Front and Rear Structure Bolts…………………………Check for proper torque

36

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
DAILY
Anti-Lock Brake System…………………………………Check for proper operation
Lights and Wiring………………………….…Check all lights for proper operation
All Bolts………………………………………………………….Visually check for tightness
Air Reservoirs………………………………………….…Drain at the end of each shift
Tires……………………………………………...Check for proper inflation and inflate

WEEKLY
Wheel Seals…………………………………………Check for oil leakage and oil level
Wheel Lugs……………………………………………………….…Check for proper torque