If the truck was disengaged from the spreader to perform a test strip, the truck and spreader should be joined together again. As the spreader and truck move forward, the gates should be opened just before reaching the beginning of the asphalt shot. The truck bed should be raised enough to keep the receiving hopper full until the truck bed is empty.

For best results, aggregate should be applied on any type of asphalt binder as soon as possible without causing the rocks to roll over or the asphalt to be picked up on spreader box, haul truck, or roller tires. That is, the aggregate spreader should follow closely behind the asphalt distributor. Refer to for more information on the proper time to begin spreading the aggregate.

Once the truck bed is empty, a signal should be given to lower the truck bed. This will allow the truck to separate from the spreader without causing the tailgate or rear of the truck bed to strike the top of the receiving hopper.