Backing with a Tractor-Trailer: Steering Wheel Direction

What happens when you turn the steering wheel left while backing with a tractor-trailer?

a) The trailer turns to the left

b) The trailer turns to the right

c) The trailer's direction remains unaffected

d) The trailer jackknifes

Final answer:

If backing with a tractor-trailer, turning the wheel left will cause the trailer to turn to the right. Therefore, the correct answer is b) The trailer turns to the right.

When you are backing with a tractor-trailer and you turn the steering wheel to the left, the rear of the trailer will move to the right. This may seem counterintuitive, but it is because the pivot point is at the trailer's axle at the back.

This means that the front of the trailer moves in the opposite direction to the truck cab, resulting in the trailer turning to the right when you turn the wheel to the left.

Backing a tractor-trailer straight requires you to turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the trailer to travel. In this case, turning the wheel to the left will make the trailer turn to the right.

Backing with a tractor-trailer is a challenging maneuver that requires practice. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and have a spotter to assist you when backing up safely.

So, remember that turning the wheel left while backing with a tractor-trailer will make the trailer turn to the right.