The article considers conditions for safe operation of low-tonnage road trains with overall trailers, namely universal platforms with a load capacity of up to 3 tons, capable of transporting agricultural machines, mini-factories and other equipment, as well as tourist houses. Transportation of such trailers on wheels is associated with high risks arising at small turning radii and emergency braking. (Research purpose) The research purpose is in improving the safety of operation and maneuverability of agricultural low-tonnage road trains operating in difficult road and terrain conditions of agricultural production. (Materials and methods) Authors have analyzed the results of research and experiments on the safe operation of low-tonnage road trains with trailers weighing up to 1 ton. The authors developed and tested on the basis of VIM and the Volga State Technical University a mechanical coupling device with a flexible connection that increases the handling and maneuverability of the trailer. (Results and discussion) The authors determined that the critical turning radii depending on the speed of a low-tonnage road train in different road conditions and different loading of the trailer when driving in front and rear for a conventional single-axle trailer with a load capacity of 1.5; 2; 2.5; 3 tons. It was found that the maneuverability is largely provided by the additional force in the cable, so authors recommend using a cable with a diameter of at least 9 mm. (Conclusion) Further research will make it possible to determine the critical indicators of safe operation of a low-tonnage road train with a load capacity of up to 3.5 tons: safe speed when passing critical turns, emergency braking and reversing.
