Issue 715

TB 43-PS-715

Approved for
Public Release;
Distribution is
Unlimited

June
2012

wanna see
my insights
on Sights?
See
Page 27!
The Master Key to Proper PMCS

LoOks like you’re yep. checked the But I’m well,

on the right baLl JoinTs just still not let me
track, benson. like the TM said. sure if show you
they’re a little
bad, trick to
sarge. test ‘em…

Top is bOtTom
solid! is solid!

Army leaders know PMCS done correctly is a force multiplier. Likewise, damaged
or failing equipment can reduce unit readiness. Poor or neglected PMCS also lowers
Soldier morale and decreases safety.
First-line supervisors, you are the master so keep
key in this equation. Given proper guidance, the wheels
motivation and resources, most Soldiers will
turning in
your head
do scheduled PMCS and do it well. But they to keep
the wheels
still look to you to set a positive example and rolling on
offer feedback. the ground.

By setting up effective PMCS programs and

actively observing mechanics at work, you
can ensure your unit upholds high standards at
home and in the ield. This means taking an
active and sometimes even a creative approach
to continually inspire them to do their best.
TB 43-PS-715, The Preventive Maintenance Monthly, is an official publication
of the Department of the Army, providing information for all Soldiers assigned
to combat and combat support units and all Soldiers with unit maintenance
and supply duties. All information published has been reviewed and approved
by the agency responsible for the equipment, publication or policy discussed.
Application of the information is optional with the user. Masculine pronouns may
refer to both genders. The use of product or company names does not constitute
endorsement of those products, services or companies by the U.S. Army. The
use of non-DoD hyperlinks, along with their content, does not constitute
endorsement by DoD or DA. Neither DoD nor DA exercises any editorial control
ISSUE 715 JUNE 2012 over, and cannot vouch for, content on non-DoD websites.

COMBAT VEHICLES 2 SMALL ARMS 27

Stryker Hub Oil Check 2-3 The Proper Sight-Weapon Mix 27-34
M1-Series Tank Engine Exhaust Grille Washers 3 M2/M2A1 Machine Gun Barrel Switching 35
Bradley, BFIST Hydraulic Reservoir Fluid Levels 4-5 M2A1 Proper Loading 36-37
MLRS Carrier Fire Sensor Alarms 6-7 M242 Stand Plans 37
M109 Howitzer, Ammo Carrier Exhaust Pipe Packing 8 M240B/M240L Machine Gun Buffers 38-39
M119A2 Towed Howitzer Jack Stand Usage 9 Smoke Grenade Launcher Turn-in 39
Gage Maintenance Tips 40-41
WHEELED VEHICLES 10 HIMARS W529 Connector Cover 41
M119A2 Howitzer Breech Block Serial Number 42-43
Tactical Vehicle Cargo Tie-Down Procedures 10-12
HMMWV Auxiliary Fuel Tank Identification 13
CBRN 44
M915 FOV Fuses Missing 14
Expanded Capacity Utility Truck Wrench NSN 15
Fox NBCRS Slat Armor Cautions 44-45
Linseed Oil Preserves Decking 43
Trailer Tire NSN 43
M101-Series Bulk Brake Line NSN 45
COMMO/ELECTRONICS 46
M105A3 Landing Leg Kit 45 100-kW Generator Hydraulic Pump Warranties 46-47
Lightweight Water Purifier Membranes 48
MRAP/ROBOTICS/CCE 15 Computer Cleaning Kit 49
Microphone Headsets Now Available 50
MRAP M-ATV Silencing Backup Alarms 15
MRAP M-ATV Steering Wheel PM 16
MRAP Door Handle, Escape Hatch Marking 17 SOLDIER SUPPORT 51
RCV Buffalo A2 Drain Plug Locations 18-19
RCV Buffalo A2 Differential Breather Valves 20 Heraldic Items Ordering 51
XM1216 SUGV Micro-display Lens Protection 21 Religious Supply Storage 52-53
RTCH Is Not a Crane! 22 Combat Eyewear Replacement Parts 53

AVIATION 23 LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT 54

ALSE Fire Resistant Environmental Ensemble 23 PQDR Submissions 54-55

Aircraft Tire Cage Selection 24-25 PS Magazine Article Submissions 56-57
Aircraft Parts Care During Turn-in 26 Annual Service Kits 58-59

Connie’s Post Scripts 60-61

You are invited to send PS your ideas for improving maintenance By order of the Secretary of the Army:
procedures, questions on maintenance and supply problems and
questions or comments on material published in PS. RAYMOND T. ODIERNO
General, United States Army Chief of Staff
Just write to:
MSG Half-Mast Official:
PS, the Preventive Maintenance Monthly
USAMC LOGSA (AMXLS-GP)
5307 Sparkman Circle
Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898
Or email to: JOYCE E. MORROW
[email protected] or Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Army
[email protected]
Internet address: 1211002
https://www.logsa.army.mil/psmag/pshome.cfm

PS, The Preventive Maintenance Monthly (ISSN 0475-2953) is published monthly by the Department of the Army, Redstone Arsenal,
AL 35898-5000. Periodical postage is paid at the Huntsville, AL post office and at additional mailing offices.
Postmaster: Send address changes to PS, The Preventive Maintenance Monthly, USAMC LOGSA (AMXLS-GP), 5307 Sparkman Circle,
Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898-5000.
Stryker… how can you should’ve they loosened
all of your checked my fill and up over that Oil Color
hubs start drain plugs after rough terrain! Oil color in your Stryker’s hubs will vary. Knowing how to read the color code
can head off damage.
I don’t leaking at the last operation!
get it?! once?
New oil will be yellowish to clear in color. It soon turns black—usually within
the irst 25 miles or so. Either color works as long as the level is where it should be.
But if the oil turns milky or
greenish in color, you’ve got a
problem. Those colors mean the
oil is contaminated with water and
has lost its ability to lubricate. Your
Stryker is NMC until your mechanic
can lush the contaminated oil and
reill the hub with SAE 75W90 oil.
Mechanics, make sure you go
slow and easy when replacing the
Two Steps to Hub Oil Check oil. There’s a small lip inside the
iller hole that makes illing the
The wheel hubs on your Stryker have sight glasses for checking the oil, drivers. hub slow work. Go too quickly
Seems like it oughta be an easy process then, huh? and you’ll have a mess to clean up Lip inside hub ill hole can cause oil overlow
It’s a little more complicated than you might think. Checking the oil is actually a when the oil overlows.
two-step process that involves oil level and oil color.

Oil Level
M1-Series Tanks…
Wheel hub oil levels should be
Oil level should be in upper half of sight glass
checked after every operation—but
not immediately after. You need to Right Washers the Key
allow about an hour for the oil to run
back from the planetary gears into the That clanging noise you heard coming from the rear of your tank might have been
hub to get an accurate reading. Do it the engine exhaust grilles falling off.
too soon and you’ll end up overilling That’s because some mechanics Key washer tabs keep bolt in place
the hubs. igure any lat washer will do when
The correct oil level should be bolting the grilles in place. But a
in the upper half of the sight glass, common lat washer can’t stop engine
usually between 3/4 and 7/8 full. vibration from loosening the grate
Keep that oil level bolts. When the bolts work loose—
where it should be by Loose CLANG!—off come the grilles.
checking the ill and ill/drain So make sure your mechanic uses
drain plugs periodically. plugs key washers, NSN 5310-00-824-5474,
Sometimes those plugs can leak under the bolts. That’s what’s called
can loosen during for in the parts TMs. With a tab folded
operation and allow the over the bolt head, each key washer
hub to leak. If you don’t keeps its bolt tight and the grilles
catch it soon enough, where they’re supposed to be.
the hub can seize up.
PS 715 3 JUN 12

715 02-03.indd 1-2 4/20/12 10:47 AM

M2A2/M3A2, M2A2/M3A2 ODS, M2A3/M3A3 Bradleys, M3A3 BFIST…
Step 1

P P for Reservoir PM Park the vehicle on level ground. The reservoir sight glass won’t give an accurate

STE U
reading if your Bradley is parked at an angle.

hey! What why won’t your engine

gives!? acceSs dOor open? Step 2
Open the access door all the
You didn’t
check my
way before checking the luid Fourth
grah! hydraulic level. When the door is only detent
reservoir
last time,
partially open, you’ll get a high is fully
remember? reading because the hydraulic open
cylinders aren’t fully extended.
Later, when you drain extra
FRH from the reservoir to bring
down the level, the system is
under-illed. That lets air into the
system and may keep the door
from opening.
Open the access door to the
fourth detent on the support link.
have you checked the fluid then you shouldn’t
That’s fully open.
level in the hydraulic reservoir be surprised if you
of your bradley’s power unit have to open the door
access door lately? manually next time. Step 3 An Extra Step
no.
Eyeball the luid level in the reservoir. The While you’re checking the
level in the sight glass should reach the full sight glass, pay special attention
mark line inscribed on the reservoir. to the color of the luid. Fluid
that is milky is probably
Fluid level should reach ill mark on reservoir contaminated with water. Let
your mechanic know right away
since contaminated luid will ruin
the seals.
I hate checking the so follow
surprises. reservoir level these three
is a daily task. steps to ensure
the reservoir
has the
correct amount
of fluid…

If it doesn’t, add FRH until it reaches the

line. If the level passes the mark, drain some
of the luid. Use an AOAP vampire pump,
NSN 4930-01-119-4030, to remove the Report milky color in sight glass
excess luid.

PS 715 5 JUN 12

715 04-05.indd 1-2 5/2/12 10:42 AM

MLRS Carrier… keep …by checking
those them weekly

No AlArm?
sensors like this…
in top
form…

Be AlArmed!
I keep now what the
smelling some- heck could
thing burning! that be?

1. Raise the cab.

2. Set the MASTER POWER switch to ENGINE ON.
3. Using a red ilter, NSN 6230-00-111-0190, shine your lashlight directly into the
sensor. The FIRE WARNING light should come on.

Shine red light into sensor… …and look for FIRE WARNING light
that’d
be me!

sure wish
you’d checked
my fire sensors
recently!

the sensors on your properly warned,

mlrs’ fire suppression you can trigger the
system are supposed to fire extinguishers
trigger the fire warning and keep damage to
4. Do the same thing with the second sensor on the other side of the cab.
light when a fire starts. a minimum.

No warning light? The problem could be a dirty connector.

if the sensors don’t Unhook the connector on the faulty
work, it may be too sensor and blow out any loose sand or
dirt. Then, clean the connector with
late—for you and
your vehicle—by the
time you discover isopropyl alcohol, NSN 6810-00-753-
4993, and foam swabs, NSN 4920-01-
the fire.

243-0571.
Don’t use cotton swabs for cleaning.
They leave behind cotton ibers that
cause the same problems as dirt.
Test the sensor again. If the FIRE
WARNING light still won’t come on,
call in your mechanic. He’ll repair or Blow out loose sand and dirt
PS 715 6 JUN 12 replace the sensors.

715 06-07.indd 1-2 4/20/12 10:47 AM

M109-Series SP Howitzer, M992A2 Ammo Carrier…

Exhaust Pipe Needs a Good PaCking

c’mon, it’s not
man! me!

what
did
you eat
last
night?

sorry,
guys! guess
my engine
exhaust
packing is
leaking!

Crewmen, that gassy hiss you keep hearing might not be from last night’s tacos. It could
be an exhaust leak from the engine compartment of your howitzer or ammo carrier.
If so, the culprit could be a worn-out exhaust delector packing. It’s supposed to plug
up the space between the delector and the end of the engine exhaust pipe.
Once the packing is worn enough,
you’ll get exhaust leaks in the engine Packing
compartment. That’s a potentially missing or
dangerous problem. damaged?
Replace that packing when you start
seeing leaks. A new packing comes
with NSN 5330-01-382-4272. Use the
whole packing to ill the gap between
the delector and the hull mount.
If the seal support is bent so the delector won’t seat right, replace it. NSN 2990-00-894-
0075 gets a new support.
Make sure the cap screws that hold the
delector snug against the packing are not
stripped or cross-threaded. Replace bad screws
with NSN 5305-00-269-3238. Note that you’ll get
100 screws with that NSN.
And the next time you need to pull the
powerpack, make sure you remove the exhaust
delector irst. Otherwise, the delector gets Replace damaged or missing screws
ripped off when you remove the deck.
‘Course, it probably wouldn’t hurt to lay off the spicy food, just in case.
PS 715 8 JUN 12
M119A2 Towed Howitzer…
The Right Spot Makes a
using jack stands in the wrong
location is a sure way to causeDifFF
erence!
damage to your m119a2!

Dear Editor,
During several recent site visits, we’ve found that units have been using
jack stands in the wrong place when performing maintenance on their
M119A2 howitzers.
When the jack stand is
placed under the forward
portion of the trail assembly
(the T-bar), the weight of
the howitzer could cause
some significant damage to
the T-bar. This area has a
machined, precision surface
that plays a vital role in Don’t place
plane setting, boresighting jack stand
and the fire control under T-bar!
alignment test (FCAT).
This area of the howitzer
is also used for the gunner’s
quadrant, so it’s very
important that it remain in
good condition.
Could you let everyone
know that the proper
location for the jack stand
is under the suspension
stop bracket? It’s called
out in WP 0032 004 of
TM 9-1015-252-20&P
(Aug 06, w/Ch 1, Feb 08). Proper location is
Michael Quig under suspension
Randall Trebat stop bracket
TACOM LARs
Ft Bragg, NC
Editor’s note: Consider them told, gentlemen!

PS 715 9 JUN 12
Tactical Vehicles…

uH-Oh! I guess we
didn’t tie down those
We’re gonna roll these hmmwvs properly!
trucks across the USA !

Dear Editor, • Improper restraint method (one chain used and connecting to the
Securing cargo safely shouldn’t happen by luck or by accident. One transport vehicle passing through two openings, instead of two separate
question I’ve asked others is, did you ever stop and think how valuable a tie-down chains, one per opening, for added security and strength)
lowly chain and its proper use can be?
Any of these issues could result in a restraint failure and a loss of
It’s very important to correctly tie down military vehicles that need to be
load, physical damage, and injuries. This would affect equipment availability,
transported. Official guidance is available to help out with this.
readiness and the safety of warfighters.
I wanted your readers to see these photos. There are a number of
Please remind your readers that restraint guidance is available and must
restraint problems here:
be used by anyone responsible for transportation and deployment. This is
• Improper assymmetrical tie-downs (strap on one side, chains on the other) even more critical when moving items defined as transportability problem
items (TPIs).
TPIs are generally large, heavy and complex items requiring extreme care
• Don’t use a and attention when transporting.
single tie-down The Transportation Engineering Agency (TEA) publishes easy-to-use
point (such as guidance in the form of pamphlets like SDDCTEA Pam 55-20, Tiedown
the tow pintle) Handbook for Truck Movements.
Also, use your vehicle’s tech manuals. The instructions in these pubs
must be followed to make sure you have safe movement. Otherwise, you’ll
end up with improper restraints that can lead to equipment damage,
personnel injuries, or death.

TMs show proper way

to restrain loads

• Improper tiedown
pattern (chains
not crossed to
provide sufficient
lateral load
capability)
PS 715 11 JUN 12

715 10-11.indd 1-2 5/3/12 5:18 PM

Whether you’re heading across post or
traveling the globe, proper restraint
of military payloads is critical.
Guidance is available in TEA
pamphlets for each mode of
transportation (air, highway,
rail, and sea).

Follow
guidance in
transportation
pubs

Units can order or view the pamphlets and other transportability

references for free on TEA’s website:
http://www.tea.army.mil/dep/transport/default.asp
While viewing the website, it’s a good idea to check out TEA Pam 70-1,
Transportability for Better Deployability.
It gives a good overview of transportability. Mark Levine
Pay special attention to the Vehicle Sizes and Transportation Engineer
Weights Chart. SDDC-TEA
Scott AFB, IL

Editor’s note: Great coverage, Mark! Readers, Para 10-1e of FM 55-30, Army
Motor Transport Units and Operations, says: “The driver supervises the loading
of his vehicle and ensures that his cargo is properly loaded and secured against
movement. He further ensures that the load is balanced and does not exceed
the vehicle capacity as noted on the data plate. He uses the vehicle tarpaulin to
protect the load from the weather and pilferage. Once the driver accepts the load
from the shipper, he alone is responsible for its safe delivery. The driver should
not accept an unsafe load and must resolve any dispute before moving.”
Here are some other publications related to transport that you’ll want to read
before moving out:
AR 55-162, Permits for Oversize Overweight, or other Special Military
Movements on Public Highways in the United States
AR 600-55, The Army Driver and Operator Standardization Program (Selection,
Training, Testing and Licensing)
STP 55-88M14-SM-TG, Soldier’s Manual and Trainer’s Guide for MOS 88M,
Motor Transport Operator–Skill Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
TC 21-305-20, Manual for the Wheeled Vehicle Operator
HMMWV…
Identify Auxiliary Fuel Tanks
we just got a so… how it’s look
safety message for do we very right
hmmwvs with auxiliary Id those easy! there!
fuel tanks. hmmwvs?

TACOM LCMC’s GPA message 12-

005 addressed auxiliary fuel tanks Check
in HMMWVs with ground mobility HMMWV’s
vehicle modiications. After that right rear
safety message was released, the truck for second
filler tube
headshed got a lot of requests from the
ield for help identifying HMMWVs
with auxiliary fuel tanks.
One quick and easy way to identify
a HMMWV with the auxiliary fuel
tank is to look for a second iller
tube. The auxiliary iller tube is aft of
the main iller tube on the rear of the Look for fuel tank selector
HMMWV. switch on instrument panel
You can also look for the auxiliary
fuel tank selector switch inside
your HMMWV. It’s located on the
instrument panel on all HMMWVs
with auxiliary tanks installed.
And if you haven’t followed the
instructions in the safety message,
now’s the time. You can eyeball it
online:
https://tulsa.tacom.army.mil/safety/gpm/tacom_wn/GPA12-005.html
PS 715 13 JUN 12
M915 FOV…
Kep Every Fuse in Its Place!

why won’t don’t light ‘cause

you start? a fuse, just that’s what
find me one. I’m missing!
it’s like
I need to
light a
fuse to
get you
started!

Does your unit have an M915A4 truck that won’t start and has no light on the shift
tower? Or does the shift selector in your
M915A4 truck’s cab no longer shift into Missing
drive? In both cases, the problem may be fuse could
a missing fuse. prevent
The factory mislabeled some of the light from
M915A4’s fuses as spares. They’re not
showing in
shift tower
really spares because each one is needed
for your truck to run right.
The solution is to keep all fuses installed
in the fuse panel. Be sure there’s a fuse in
every empty slot. Then keep extra fuses in
your glove compartment. You may need
them later.
eyeball this
table for
fuse NSNs.

Size NSN 5920-01-

10A 149-6952
15A 085-0825
20A 123-5211
25A 149-6953 Fill every empty slot
30A 188-6294 with the right fuse

14 JUN 12
MRAP M-ATV…

Drivers, the last thing you want in a tactical situation

oh no, I is the backup alarm going off on your M-ATV.
thought So, make sure it won’t. Just use the switch on the
you shut
off the
dash to shut off the alarm.
Blackout select
alarm?!
(two-way rocker switch)

oops, I
guess I
forgot!

Quick!
use the
blackout
switch!

Select between normal and blackout mode. For

blackout, press main switch up. To disengage blackout,
press smaller bottom switch up and hold while
pressing main switch down. Releasing small switch
unlocks main switch, allowing return to normal mode.
In blackout mode, backup alarm will not operate.
When you’re backing up your vehicle without the
backup alarm, use a ground guide and lots of extra
caution when the tactical situation allows.

Expanded Capacity Utility Truck…

Correct NSN for Wrench

Dear Editor,
TM 9-2320-387-24P for the expanded capacity utility truck shows the
wrong NSN in WP 0151 01-1 for the open-end wrench. The correct NSN is
5120-01-543-5919.
I think it’s important mechanics make a note of the correct NSN because
the wrench doubles as the handle for the spare tire assembly on the Expanded
Capacity Vehicles (ECV) HMMWVs. And it often disappears in the field.

SFC Stephen Little Editor’s note: This will eventually be corrected in the
Trenton, TN TM, but until it is mechanics should pencil in the right
NSN. Thanks for letting us know, Sergeant.

PS 715 15 JUN 12
MRAP M-ATV… arrgh!

this steering
wheel is hard
to turn!

S ometimes it’s hard to turn the steering wheel on the M-ATV, especially when the
vehicle has been sitting for a while.
Wet sand and mud
That’s because wet sand accumulate on cab floor
and mud corrode the steering
wheel shaft where it mounts
into the cab’s loor.
One source of wet
sand and mud

Here’s what you can do to

make steering easy:

• Use a 7/32-in hex wrench to remove the bolts that hold

the steering column plate in place. You’ll ind the wrench
in a handy key set that comes with NSN 5120-01-473-9592.

Remove access cover

• Use a brush or low-

pressure air (30 psi) to
clean the area around
the steering column.

• After a good cleaning, use a dry-ilm lubricant • And while you’re at it, use a grease
spray on the steering column shaft. NSN gun and lube the shaft’s U-joint
9150-01-260-2534 gets an 11-oz spray can. with 3 or 4 pumps of grease.

PS 715 16 JUN 12
MRAP Vehicles…
Door handles and escape hatches inside MRAP
vehicles are hard to see, especially in the dark,
SHED because there’s little color contrast between the
handles and surrounding area.

SOME You can shed some light (or glow) on the

situation by adding a strip of pressure-sensitive
tape, NSN 9390-01-573-0835, in the right places.
LIGHT Inside the MRAP, place the tape on the escape
hatches and doors like so:

Front door For vehicles with a rear ramp…

…place
on ramp
switch

For vehicles with rear doors

For vehicles with roof hatches

Gunner’s hatch

By the way, this tape works on composite

and non-metallic surfaces. Just make sure
you use a clean rag and alcohol wipes to
clean any dirt off the area where the tape is
being applied.
PS 715 17 JUN 12
RCV Here’s the Solution!
Buffalo
A2… Open the There’s …another
hull’s drain one under one here…
there are plugs on
three drain here…
the bottom
plugs you need of your A2.
to open on the
BuFfalo A2!
There are
three of
them, so
make sure
you open ‘em
or you’ll
if you leave water
don’t, behind.
you’ll
leave
water
behind!

…and don’t forget the drain plug

above and behind the tow pintle.

c rewman, water collects in the hull of your Buffalo A2 like a rain barrel at the side
of a barn.
Water drips off wet boots and uniforms, trickles in from the top of the vehicle,
comes in from the wash rack, or seeps in through loose drain plugs during fording.
Here’s the Problem By the way, make sure any water drained from the hull goes into a drip pan and
Water is disposed of according to your unit’s SOP. That’s because any luid leaks, like
Solid: If you’re in a cold-weather
takes on coolant, oil or power steering luid, can end up in the vehicle’s hull. So, never dump
three region of Afghanistan, the water in
forms – the hull and under the loor plates will
contaminated water down a drain or let it run on the ground.
solid,
freeze. Since water expands as it freezes, Also, you don’t want water to get back in through the drain plug openings. Make
liquid
and gas. lines and ittings are ruptured, causing all sure you reinstall ’em before operation–and do it right. Plugs that are too loose will
kinds of damage. vibrate free. And plugs that are too tight are hard to open and more likely to be left
All three Liquid: Water under the loor plates closed when draining is needed.
create
will rust the vehicle’s air brake valves and So, apply a little anti-seize compound, NSN 8030-01-087-8254, to the threads
problems
in your just about anything made of metal. before installing the plugs. That lets you tighten the plugs enough to keep them from
A2. Gas: As temperatures go up, the water vibrating loose, but makes them easier to open next time.
evaporates and condenses on radios and Just make sure you put the compound on each plug’s threads and the threaded
electronic gear. Enough moisture can portion of the hull. That way, all the threads are coated and the plugs won’t stick.
short out electronic equipment.
PS 715 19 JUN 12

715 18-19.indd 1-2 4/20/12 10:48 AM

RCV
Buffalo A2…
DiFFErEntial BrEathErs

sometimes us buffalos {sniff sniff} need

our breather valves {sniff sniff} cleaned
and opened to let off pressure!

once you’ve Twist

unplugged and pull
our breather what?!
valves, it’s time
to do the twist
and pull test!

B reather valves on the Buffalo A2’s front and rear differentials must be clean and open to
let off pressure that builds up in those assemblies.
If a breather valve is plugged, seals blow, gear
oil leaks out, and gears go, too.
Keeping the breather valves clean is simple: Twist
the valve’s cap to loosen any dirt stuck inside. Then
pull on the cap to make sure it’s moving freely. If
the cap won’t turn and pull up, get a new valve.
Make sure the new valve is good by blowing
into the threaded end. If you can’t easily blow
through the breather, it won’t do the job for your
equipment. The cap on a good breather opens a
little under ½ psi – almost no pressure at all.
Then give all breather valves the twist-and-pull Twist and pull dust valve’s cap
test after each operation in mud or heavy dust. to loosen any dirt inside
Your A2’s differentials will live longer if you do.

PS 715 20 JUN 12
Robot,
SUGV… Glass Lenses Reminder
why do
you insist on
running me into
a wall?!

the lens on
my glasses
is scratched
all to heck!
I can’t see
the heads-up
display.

Operators, here’s a quick

reminder to keep in mind about
the XM1216 Small Unmanned Micro-display
Ground Vehicle (SUGV).
You can’t operate the SUGV
properly if you can’t see the micro-
display because of a scratched lens
on the glasses. Protective
The lens gets scratched when the fabric sleeve
micro-display gets shoved into the (glasses
protective fabric sleeve along with inside)
the glasses.
To store the unit properly and not If the lens gets scratched or the glasses
scratch the lens, place the glasses get damaged, replace them, not the
inside the protective fabric sleeve complete heads-up display unit. It makes
with the micro-display on the the difference between 25 bucks for the
outside of the sleeve. lens, 93 bucks for the glasses, or 4,000 big
Heads-up display glasses ones for the heads-up display unit!
Here’s what’s available:
Item NSN
Heads-up display unit 5855-01-590-8042
Oakley glasses 4240-01-525-3095
(frame and lenses)
Micro-display Oakley clear lenses 4240-01-525-7555

You’ll want to make a note of these NSNs, especially the lens, until they show up
in an update to TM 9-2350-397-13&P.

PS 715 21 JUN 12
Safety… c’mon, bUdDy! sorry, charlie!
let’s run this chain that’s not

Using
through your tie- in my job
points. you can description!
double as a

RTCH as
crane today!

Crane
WON’T
Fly!
The RT240 Rough Terrain Container Handler (RTCH), NSNs 3930-01-473-3998
and 3930-01-522-7364, is a nifty workhorse in the ield. It’s used to lift, move, stack
or unstack 20-ft to 40-ft ISO containers. The RTCH can even be used as a forklift if
a special forklift kit is installed.
But one thing it isn’t is a crane. Some
units are making their RTCH pull double
duty as a substitute crane. They’re using it
to lift materials or equipment with chains,
slings or straps attached to the tie-down
points.
Bad idea. The RTCH’s tie-down points are
only meant to secure the top handler during
transportation. They were never designed to
pull or lift materials or equipment. One of the four top handler tie-down
Misusing the RTCH can result in a load points being improperly used for
dropping unexpectedly and damaging lifting. Tie-down points should only
equipment, or even worse, injuring or be used to tie/secure the RTCH top
killing someone. The problem is widespread handler during transportation
enough that TACOM LCMC issued a safety
of use message prohibiting using the RTCH
as a crane.
See TACOM SOUM 12-002 online for
details:
https://tulsa.tacom.army.mil/safety/
soum/tacom_wn/SOU12-002.html
Questions? Contact TACOM LCMC’s
MHE equipment specialist, William Roach,
at DSN 330-6129, (586) 467-6129, or email:
[email protected]

PS 715 22 JUN 12
FREE Ensemble
ALSE… The FREe
it is not a
Can only be
stand-alone
woRn with
uniform for
A2Cu and it

Not Authorized
wearing.
is only for
deploying
soldiers.

Flight crews, there’s lots of talk

going on about what types of aviation
clothing can be worn. If you’ve heard
that the ire resistant environmental
ensemble (FREE) can be worn in lieu
of the army aviation combat uniform
(A2CU) light suit, you heard wrong!
The FREE has not been authorized
as a stand-alone light uniform. FREE
is only being issued to deploying
Soldiers.
If you are deploying and have been
issued the FREE, you can wear the
FREE with the A2CU but not instead
of the A2CU.
Make a note that the FREE will
be available through regular supply
channels sometime in late 2012 or
early 2013.
Because the FREE is not yet
available, you can order the aviation
cold weather clothing system
(ACWCS). Here are NSNs you can use.
The items can be requisitioned from
DOD EMALL.

Item *NSN 8415-

Flyers jacket 01-394-3513 (s)
Flyers jacket liner 01-394-3816 (s)
Overalls 01-111-5020 (s)
Coat liner 01-448-4250 (s)
Nomex drawers 00-467-4075 (s)
Nomex undershirt 00-485-6547 (s)
*Make a note that “s” indicates
multiple NSNs for various sizes. And
note that some items are green or tan
and are authorized to wear.

23 JUN 12
you ninny! he
CH-47/AH-64/HH/UH-60A/L/M Aircraft… pick me! can’t use you
I’m going to pick me!
fill this guy’s for an on- that
aircraft tire

Air-
tire on-aircraft. requires
change! me!!

which one a’

craft ya do I need
to use?

Tire
Cage
Filling your cup to the brim with java is a good start to the Do not use aircraft tire cages for vehicles or ground support equipment tires. Also,
day. But illing your aircraft tires to the rim without following do not use vehicle tire cages for aircraft tires. They are not authorized. If you have
Paying
attention to
detail when it all the WARNINGS and information in your speciic aircraft the DOL UH-60 mobile yellow tire cage with bead breaker in your hangars, they are
TM and your unit’s SOP for inlating and servicing aircraft for tire buildup only with the tires off the aircraft. Check your unit SOP on the use of
comes to tire
inflation and
cages is tires could cost you a limb or your life. this cage. There is no TM support for it.
important!
The Black Hawk and the AH-64 aircraft should only use the
Yellow cage and cage in TM 55-2620-200-24
are for tire buildup only
red tire cage, NSN 4920-01-545-0763, PN SK2000TC-6. This For tire
cage is for on-aircraft servicing of the main and tail landing servicing
gear tires. Make sure you follow the instructions that come on-aircraft,
with the cage because it is not in the TMs. This cage is being use RED tire
provided as part of the modernized shop sets currently in
inlation
safety cage
ielding.
For the Chinook aircraft, make a note that an on-aircraft
tire cage is not available but one is in the works. So follow
the TM instructions for servicing tires. If your TM or any of
the airframe TMs reference Chapter 5, Special Instructions
Peculiar To Army Operations of TM 55-2620-200-24, for
servicing tires, keep in mind that the referenced tire cage, NSN
4910–01-459-7080, is only used for tire buildup and cannot be
used while the wheel is installed on the aircraft.

Always follow the That way, your

instructions your aircraft will
TMs have and never not suffer
take shortcuts with damage and
tire inflation or you won’t lose
tire cages. life or limb!

PS 715 24 JUN 12 PS 715 25 JUN 12

715 24-25.indd 1-2 5/2/12 2:27 PM

Aircraft General…

Turning In Parts To SupPort

hold that
stuff down!

this road soon… we drove

is a little real slow.
bumpy! what in
the world
happened?

yeah! I was
holding the
yeah, yeah, yeah. stuff down in
I got it covered! the back!

M echanics, everybody talks about “more bang for the buck.” But sometimes, taking parts
to the support shop for repair shouldn’t turn into more bucks for the bang!
Transporting unprotected parts to support for repair creates more damage because
they bang against each other. The bucks you’ll pay for the extra damage in transport can
go sky high. So the question is, can you afford more bucks for the bang? Probably not.
Whatever form of transportation you use, always wrap, box up or use the original
containers to avoid damage. Parts such as tail rotor blades, pitch control links and light-
critical components should never be transported unprotected.
Never put components or parts in a truck or a gator unprotected. They will just
bounce around and crash into each other during transport. By the time you get
to support, your repair cost could go from minimum to maximum, depending on
the damage.

PS 715 26 JUN 12
Small
Arms… The Proper Sight-Weapon Mix
sorry, I
can’t work I don’t think
I’m here to we would be a it’s not
with you! me, it’s
help you do good fit.
your job! you.

The Army gives But it can be To help end that

Soldiers all sorts difficult to tell confusion, here’s
of choices of sights, what can be used a list of sights,
lasers and infrared on what and where their NSNs and
illuminators to use on you go to get info TMs, and what they
their rifles, pistols on how to mount can be used on…
and machine guns. and use a device.

AN/PAQ-4 infrared aiming light (LIN A34938):

AN/PAQ-4A, NSN 5855-01-312-5160, TM 11-5855-297-12&P
AN/PAQ-4B, NSN 5855-01-361-1362, TM 11-5855-301-12&P
AN/PAQ-4C, NSN 5855-01-398-4315, TM 11-5855-301-12&P

All the AN /PAQ-4 versions can The AN /PAQ-4 Use it until it

be used on the M16-series rifle, series is stops working,
the M4 /M4A1 carbine, and the no longer then replace it with
M249 and M240B machine guns. supported. a different sight.

PS 715 27 JUN 12
AN/PEQ-2 target pointer illuminator/aiming light AN/PEQ-14 integrated laser white light pointer
(TPIAL) (LIN J03261): (ILWLP) (LIN J68403):
AN/PEQ-2A, NSN 5855-01-447-8992, TM 9-5855-1915-13&P AN/PEQ-14 (tan), NSN 5855-01-571-1258, TM 9-5855-1911-13&P
AN/PEQ-2B, NSN 5855-01-515-6904, TM 9-5855-1915-13&P AN/PEQ-14 (black), NSN 5855-01-538-0191, TM 9-5855-1911-13&P
AN/PEQ-2C, NSN 5855-01-515-6908, TM 11-5855-308-12&P

The AN /PEQ series

can be used on the
M16-series rifle, the
M4/M4A1 carbine,
and the M249,
M240B, M2 and MK 19
machine guns.

it is no longer
supported. Use it
until it stops working
and then choose a
different sight.

The AN /PEQ-14 is used only

on the M9 pistol in MP units.

AN/PEQ-15 multi-functional aiming light Laser borelight system (LBS):

NSN 5855-01-537-6000 (family) (LIN J03261): AN/PEM-1 (no LIN), NSN 5860-01-471-2091, TM 9-5860-226-13&P
AN/PEQ-15 (tan), NSN 5855-01-577-7174, TM 9-5855-1914-13&P* M30 (LIN B60351), NSN 4933-01-394-7781, TM 9-4933-273-12&P
AN/PEQ-15 (black), NSN 5855-01-534-5931, TM 9-5855-1914-13&P*
AN/PEQ-15A (green) dual-beam aiming laser-advanced (DBAL),
NSN 5855-01-579-0062, TM 9-5855-1912-13&P*
AN/PEQ-15A (black) DBAL, NSN 5855-01-535-6166, TM 9-5855-1912-13&P*

The AN /PEM-1 The M30 is

is used on all no longer
small arms and supported. it’s
The AN /PEQ-15 and -15A can is authorized been replaced by
be used on the M16-series through the CTA. the AN /PEM-1.
rifle, the M4 /M4A1 carbine,
and the M249, M240B, M2
and MK 19 machine guns.

*To be included in the next TM update. PS 715 29 JUN 12

715 28-29.indd 1-2 5/1/12 4:48 PM

AN/PSQ-23 small tactical optical rile mounted (STORM) AN/PAS-13 medium weapon thermal sight
micro laser range inder (MLRF) (LIN J68653): (MWTS) (LIN S90535):
AN/PSQ-23 (tan), NSN 5855-01-577-5946, TM 9-5855-1913-13&P AN/PAS-13B(V)2, NSN 5855-01-464-3152, TM 11-5855-312-10
AN/PSQ-23 (black), NSN 5855-01-535-1905, TM 9-5855-1913-13&P AN/PAS-13C(V)2, NSN 5855-01-523-7713, TM 11-5855-316-10
AN/PAS-13D(V)2, NSN 5855-01-524-4313, TM 11-5855-317-10

All versions of the MWTS

The AN /PSQ-23 STORM is used can be used on the M16-series
on all individual and crew rifle, the M4 /M4A1 carbine,
served weapons, plus the M110 and the M240-series and
sniper system and the Stryker M249 machine gun.
Remote Weapons Station.

AN/PAS-13 light weapon thermal sight (LWTS) (LIN S60356): AN/PAS-13 heavy weapon thermal sight (HWTS) (LIN S90603):
AN/PAS-13C(V)1, NSN 5855-01-523-7707, TM 11-5855-316-10 AN/PAS-13B(V)3, NSN 5855-01-464-3151, TM 11-5855-312-10
AN/PAS-13D(V)1, NSN 5855-01-524-4308, TM 11-5855-324-10 AN/PAS-13C(V)3, NSN 5855-01-523-7715, TM 11-5855-316-10
AN/PAS-13D(V)3, NSN 5855-01-524-4314, TM 11-5855-317-10

All versions of the HWTS can

The LWTS is used on the be used on the M16-series rifle,
M16-series rifle, M4 /M4A1 the M4 /M4A1 carbine, the M2
carbine and the and MK 19 machine guns, and the
AT4 anti-tank weapon. M24 and M107 sniper rifles.

PS 715 30 JUN 12 PS 715 31 JUN 12

715 30-31.indd 1-2 4/24/12 4:11 PM

AN/PVS-4 night vision sights (LIN N04732): Night vision sniper scope (LIN S90433):
AN/PVS-4, NSN 5855-00-629-5334 AN/PVS-10(V)1, NSN 5855-01-410-8979, TM 11-5855-303-12&P
AN/PVS-4A, NSN 5855-01-422-8782
The AN /PVS-10(V)1
Both are covered by TM 11-5855-213-10. The AN /PVS-4 and -4A can
is used only on the
be used on the M16-series
rifle, the M4 /M4A1 carbine, M24 sniper rifle.
and the M249 and M240B
machine guns.

AN/PVS-30, NSN 5855-01-567-9243,

TM 9-5855-1916-13&P

The AN /PVS-30
is used only on
the M110 sniper
system.

AN/TVS-5 night vision sights (LIN N04596):

AN/TVS-5, NSN 5855-00-629-5327, TM 11-5855-214-10
AN/TVS-5A, NSN 5855-01-422-8777, TM 11-5855-214-10

AN/PVS-14 monocular night vision device (LIN M79678):

AN/PVS-14, NSN 5855-01-432-0524, TM 11-5855-306-10
Both
sights can
be used
on the M2
and MK 19
The AN /
machine
guns.
PVS-14 is
used on
the M16A2
rifle,
where it’s
mounted
behind
the M68
sight.

PS 715 32 JUN 12

715 32-33.indd 1-2 4/24/12 4:11 PM

Relex sight, M68 close combat optic (CCO) (LIN S60288):
M68 compM2, NSN 1240-01-411-1265, TM 9-1240-413-13&P
M68 compM4, NSN 1240-01-540-3690, TM 9-1240-413-13&P
M68 compM4S, NSN 1240-01-576-6134, TM 9-1240-413-13&P
All versions of the
M68 can be used on the
M16-series rifle and the
M4 /M4A1 carbine.

The compM2 and

compM4 versions are
no longer supported.
Replace them with the
compM4S when they no
longer work.

Rile combat optic (RCO) sight (LIN S45729):

M150 RCO,
NSN 1240-01-557-1897,
TM 9-1240-416-13&P

The M150 can be used on the M16-series rifle,

the M4 /M4A1 carbine, and M249 machine gun.

M145 straight telescope (LIN T60185):

M145,
NSN 1240-01-411-6350, The M145 is
TM 9-1240-415-13&P used on the
M240-series
machine gun.

Any time you have

questions about what
you can OR can’t use
on your weapon…

…check out the Small

Arms Integration Book,
which can be accessed at:
https://www.us.army.mil/
suite/folder/4718898
M2 vs. M2A1 Barrels
M2/M2A1
Machine
Guns…
Hey little sorry,
m2a1 barrel mr. m2, you
buddy, can’t handle
how about a switch
switching with me!
places?

T he good news is that all of the new M2A1 machine gun’s barrels are interchangeable.
You can switch any M2A1 barrel with any M2A1 receiver without worrying about its
affecting headspace and timing of the machine gun.
The bad news is this doesn’t apply to the M2 machine gun. No M2 barrel can be
used with an M2A1 machine gun and no M2A1 barrel can be used with an M2. If
you try to use an M2 barrel in an M2A1 machine gun, it will damage the M2A1 and
possibly you.
How do you tell the difference between barrels? M2A1 barrels have interrupted
threads on the receiver side of the barrel, a barrel lock pin (or lug), and a carrying
handle assembly. M2 barrels have the same serial number as their receiver and do not
have a carrying handle assembly or barrel lock pin.
You can interchange M2 barrels
Armorers, with other M2 machine guns,
immediately
check all your M2A1 but of course you then must go
machine guns! through the timing and headspacing
procedure before you ire the M2.
The M2A1 does not need to be
make
sure they
have M2A1 headspaced and timed when you
barrels!
change its barrel. Any M2A1 barrel
can be used with any M2A1 receiver
without affecting headspace and
timing. See WP 0023 00-1 in TM
9-1005-347-10 for more info on
taking care of the M2A1 barrel.
PS 715 35 JUN 12
• Close the cover. Pull the retracting
Proper M2A1 Loading Boosts Bolt Health slide handle all the way back until the
bolt is completely to the rear. Release
Pull the bolt
all the way
to the rear
the handle. Do this twice if you’re
{ouch!} going to fully load the M2A1.
• If the M2A1 is set for single shot, the
bolt will remain in the rear position,
so move the slide handle forward
before releasing the bolt with the bolt
my bolt was
supposed to be latch release.
forward before If the M2A1 is set for automatic ire, the slide handle will automatically go
forward with the bolt when the bolt is released.
you did that.

• Press the trigger to ire.

M2A1 machine gun bolts are taking a beating because gunners aren’t loading M2/M3-Series Bradley…
ammo correctly. As a result, the tops of bolts are ending up with dents, gouges and
excessive wear. I sure wish you I’m so
• Ensure the bolt is forward and the correct front cartridge
Stand
had a stand to tired of
set me on. all this
stops are installed.
to load up standing
on correct around.
loading…

Your
M242
on
Ensure correct
front cartridge
stops are installed

This!
• Open the machine
Insert double
gun cover and insert loop end
the double loop end of ammo in
of the ammo belt in feedway until
the feedway until the first cartridge Dear Half-Mast, Dear Sergeant S.P.,
irst cartridge is held is held by belt
We have seen a lot There is no NSN for the stand, but you can
of Bradley units with a
by the belt holding holding pawls have one made from plans that TACOM will
stand to set the M242
pawls. Never close the automatic gun on. But we send you. Call TACOM’s Brian Webster at
cover while the bolt is can’t find an NSN for the DSN 786-1179, (586) 282-1179 or email:
held to the rear. That stand or any directions [email protected]
damages the bolt and
on how to make one. for a copy of the plans.
Can you help?
feed tray when the bolt
SFC S.P.
goes forward.
PS 715 37 JUN 12

715 36-37.indd 1-2 5/1/12 4:52 PM

The DLA POC is Greg Lupton, who can be reached at (614) 692-4615, DSN 850-
M240B/M240L
Machine Guns… Don’t Suffer Bad Buffers! 4615, email:
[email protected]
good going! now I have
a ruined receiver, too! For buffers with a CAGE code other than 1HFX2, the PQDR must be submitted to
I guess this TACOM. The TACOM POC is Daryl Meyer, DSN 786-1249, (586) 282-1249, email:
explains why you’re
not well. you have a [email protected]
defective buffer. For the QDR number and info, go to:
https://tulsa.tacom.army.mil/SAFETY/mam/
tacom_wn/BufferRecallQDR-M240BL.pdf
For more information, see TACOM LCMC MA 12-013:
https://tulsa.tacom.army.mil/SAFETY/message.cfm?id=MA12-013.html
if you
had only
checked Combat Vehicles…
my buffer
before you
fired me,
Turn in Smoke Grenade
I’d be fine. hey guy, the reset/repair
program has no smoke
grenade launchers and they Launchers NOW!
D efective buffers for the M240B/M240L machine guns have gotten out in the ield.
need to work on them.

The buffers, NSN 1005-01-461-0326, have bad hydraulic luid ill plug screws that so since I’ve been here T he Reset/repair program for smoke grenade
can loosen during iring. The buffer’s hydraulic luid then leaks out, which means the a while and I’m not going
anywhere anytime soon… launchers has halted because they have run out
buffer can’t do its job. That can lead to a ruined receiver. of launchers. Any of the following launchers that
The 9,000 M240B/M240Ls possibly affected are listed by serial number in are not being used or are not working should be
https://tulsa.tacom.army.mil/SAFETY/mam/ turned in immediately:
tacom_wn/M240BBufferRecallSNs.xls Original mark MM/YY
Armorers, if you have • M239, NSN 1055-01-015-0874, LIN L44612
any M240B/M240Ls on
Check buffer for • M243, NSN 1055-01-059-0560, LIN L67021
dates January 2010 • M250, NSN 1055-00-000-0138, LIN L44680
the list have your small to June 2011
arms maintenance shop
• M257, NSN 1055-01-070-1213, LIN L44031
check for the bad buffers,
• M259, NSN 1055-01-107-7501, LIN L44748

which are stamped with an R means the buffer

Smoke grenade launchers in condition codes
ID code date of January
has been reworked
F or H should be sent to:
and is OK to use Rework mark R MM/YY
2010 to June 2011.
They should disassemble the buttstock assembly and check if its buffer is within RIC: AD1
the date range. If the buffer has no date stamped on it or the date isn’t January 2010 DODAAC: W41CE8
XU W0K4 USA OSC Pine Bluff Arsenal
to June 2011, the buffer is good to go as long as it doesn’t show signs of leakage. If
Army Non-ammo Field Service Account 53990
the buffer is within those dates but has R stamped on it, it has been reworked and is
507th Str
also OK to use. Pine Bluff AR 71602-9500
But if the buffer is in the date range and has no R, it must be replaced. Deployed
units can have the buffer replaced at the nearest small arms repair facility. …send For launchers in all other condition codes,
Non-deployed units must submit a PQDR to get a new buffer. If the buffer these
things in
contact Ramon Perez for mailing instructions at
has a CAGE code of IHFX2 (Kaeper Machine), the PQDR must be submitted to now!
DSN 786-1553, (586) 282-1553, or email:
DLA online: [email protected]
https://www.pdrep.csd.disa.mil Units should send the launchers via military
The CAGE code is stamped on the buffer. shipping at their own cost. No credit will be
PS 715 38 JUN 12 given to the units for the launchers.

715 38-39.indd 1-2 5/2/12 2:27 PM

Small Arms…
PM Keeps Gages Accurate if you have any gage
questions, contact TACOM’s
Kevin Acel at DSN 786-1273,
(586) 282-1273, email:
I don’t think [email protected]
we betTer what?
counT ON THis why’d you
GAge For ANY wake me up? or Eugene Meade, DSN 7 86-127 7,
ACcuracy! (586) 282-127 7, email:
[email protected]
someboDY I was
FORGoT GAgeS sound
NeED PM, tOo! asleep! HIMARS…

Cover Stops Cable Failure

Hold ON, you forgot to
BuDdy! put thE cover
A gage that’s no longer accurate is about as useful as a bore brush that has no bristles. back on my W529
connector!!
If your gages are going to keep your unit’s riles, pistols and machine guns accurate, then
you need to be accurate with their PM.
Be gentle Use us
Clean and lube gages. A dirty or rusty
with gages. like the gage won’t give an accurate reading. Clean
If you’re TMs tell gages at least quarterly with the same dry
you to!
rough with cleaning solvent you use on weapons. Then
gages, soon give them a light coat of CLP.
they’ll be too
banged-up
I think
to do their that’s an 8,
jobs. Don’t
force gages.
but maybe
it’s a B. S ince 2007, the HIMARS’ W529 cable assembly has failed 38 times. Half those
I really failures were in 2011. The W529 is failing because crews fail to install its cover.
The W529 cable connector has a
think I
nEed to be
Cleaned! cover that should always be installed Keep
except when the SNVT test is being run cover on
or when the W19P2 cable is stowed. except
Protect gages during storage. If you When the test is over, the cover needs when
to be put right back on and left there.
leave gages lying around or crammed doing
SNVT
in a toolbox, they will either disappear Without the cover, the connec-tor testing
or be damaged. Store gages separately
ahhh…
has no protection against moisture or when
from tools. Keep them in a box with now that’s or backblast from rockets iring. W19P2
foam padding that has an area cut out what I’m
talkin’
Corrosion eats away at the connector’s cable is
pins and soon there’s no electrical
for each gage. A good storage case stowed
about!
comes with NSN 6760-01-519-0711.
connection.
So do your HIMARS a favor and use the W529 cover. And check for the cover
during your weekly PMCS. Order a new one through your Lockheed Martin rep
Keep gages calibrated. TB 43-180, which governs gages, says they must be calibrated
every 360 days. (Air Force personnel can ind the same information in TO 33K-1-100-2.) Keep
with P/N MS27502B17N if it’s missing.
copies of DA Form 3023, the calibration record, stored in a safe place so you can prove your
gages were calibrated. PS 715 41 JUN 12

715 40-41.indd 1-2 4/20/12 10:50 AM

M119A2 Howitzer…
How do yOu that’s easy!

Where
teLl which it’s the one
breech block on the top
serial number edge of the
is the right blOck!
one? There’s

to Find more than one

number!

Breech
Block
Serial
Number
Dear Editor, if the howitzer has
to briefly
Your article on Page 10 in PS 708 (Nov 11) on the importance of making repeat what was already been fired with the
sure the M119A2’s breech and breech block serial numbers match may in the article, wrong breech block, you’ll
it’s important to have to order a new block,
confuse some howitzer units. nsn 1015-01-344-5835, at a
Breech block serial number is on top edge of block ensure the breech
The picture of where to block and breech cost of about $26,000.
look for the serial number serial numbers
on the breech has an arrow Breech block serial number match because so it’s just be
pointing to the side of that is the only important sure you
way to accurately howitzer look in
the breech. The number is Breech track how many units do the right
actually on the flat surface rounds the m119a2 this check place to
serial has fired and the
on top of the breech block before their find the
number life left in the
lug, near where the hinge pin cannon assembly.
next firing. serial
is located. The main reason number.
I point this out is that I
have seen breeches that
have other numbers engraved
on them besides the serial Linseed Oil Preserves Decking
number. We don’t want Constant exposure to the elements causes the wood decking on semitrailers to dry, crack
confusion about which is the Breech mechanism and splinter. Prevent that damage by spreading boiled linseed oil on the decking as
serial number and where it is.
needed. NSN 8010-00-152-3245 gets a gallon of oil and NSN 8010-00-684-8789 gets ive
James Palmer yes, we gallons. Use NSN 8010-00-242-6114 to get a 55-gal drum.
TACOM Left Behind definitely
don’t
Equipment Specialist
JBLM, WA
want any
confusion
Trailer Tire NSN
about
where to
To get a tire for the M103- and M116-series ¾-ton trailers, use NSN 2610-01-063-7947.
find the This tire is also used on the M105A2, M149A2 and M200A1 trailers. Keep this NSN handy
serial until it’s added to the updated technical manuals for these trailers.
number.

PS 715 43 JUN 12

715 42-43.indd 1-2 4/20/12 10:49 AM

Fox NBCRS Vehicle… here are a • To open the door, the safest
few tips from
ft leonard way is to push from the inside
wood… with both hands until you feel the
door lock in the open position.
…on dealing with Of course, you want to make
my heavy rear door very sure the door has locked
when I’m wearing in place before you release it.
slat armor. • PS 700 said the fix for the
additional weight from the slat
armor was to have your Fox field
rep adjust the gas cylinder that
controls the upper rear door.
That’s a good idea, but you
should still use these procedures
for opening and closing the
rear door in case the gas

More on Slat Dangers! cylinder fails.

Rob Pardun Open

Greg Tipton door from
Dear Editor, TACOM Maintenance Support inside out
We saw your article in PS 700 (Mar 11) on the dangers of opening Ft Leonard Wood, MO
and closing the Fox’s rear door when the Fox is equipped with slat armor.
Through our experience supporting the Fox here at Ft Leonard Wood, we
you’ve
would like to offer these comments and suggestions: opened the thanks,
• With the slat armor, the door door to guys!
weighs close to 100 pounds. fox door
Close rear safety!
Plus there are only about
door like this
1 1/2 inches of clearance
between the door slats and
the slats on each side of the
door. So you need to not only
worry about the door falling and
conking someone on the head,
which happened here, but also
the danger of a Soldier getting
his fingers caught between the M101-Series Bulk Brake Line
slots if he tried to catch a
falling door. He could easily You can order bulk brake line for M101A1/A2/A3-series ¾-ton cargo trailers using NSN
lose fingers if that happened. 4710-00-350-9896. Bend, cut and lare the metal line to the desired length. Order the
• We’ve found the best way line in one-foot increments up to 24 feet.
to close the door is to have
one person sit on the door
entrance’s edge, while another M105A3 Landing Leg
stands outside to the side of
the door. The person sitting The original landing leg on the M105A3 cargo trailer is not stable enough to hold up
releases the locking handle the trailer without being attached to a prime mover. Mechanics can replace the landing
and then both guide the door leg with a kit, NSN 2590-01-564-2057, that’s part of MWO 9-2330-324-23-1. Installation
down while maintaining upward instructions come with the kit. By the way, the landing leg is shown as Item 1 in Fig 14
pressure. The person outside
of TM 9-2320-324-14&P.
needs to stay to the side, out
of the door’s path.
PS 715 45 JUN 12

715 44-45.indd 1-2 5/1/12 4:51 PM

100-kW
Generators… Hydraulic Pump Warranty whether you meet the dealer in person at your location or ship the failed
pump to him, here’s the information he’ll need when you ask for his support…

if you have a 100-kw tactical …or trailer-mounted generator,

quiet skid-mounted generator, nsn 6115-01-471-7088, here’s the • Product support program number PS52035, dated 9 June 11
nsn 6115-01-296-1463… latest warranty news… • Your unit name, address and shipping address
• Point of contact, phone number and email address
• Generator serial number and date of manufacture. Both are
stamped on the data plate.
• Number of engine run hours at the time of failure

caterpillar, inc.
(cat), which makes the there’s a Press
generator’s engine, has chance the my
extended the warranty pump could hero!!
ENGINE …lower
on the unit injector wear out METER display
hydraulic pump, before the key… shows
nsn 2915-01-521-8527. generator’s
12,000-hour engine
life span. run

an ty hours

a r r if it does, a

w cat dealer
will replace
the failed
• Engine serial number. It’s on the engine block behind and
below the coolant overlow bottle.
the warranty covers pump at your
only generators with location free
pump failures. of charge. remember, the for more information on the warranty,
replacement the generators and the pump, contact
it’s in effect through pump is free. cecom’s ted banks at dsn 648-4738,
30 June 13. (443) 395-4738, or email:
the warranty [email protected]
ends on
to qualify, the the it must show to find a cat dealer 30 june 13.
generator must date is less than near you, go online to:
be less than stamped 12,000 engine http://www.cat.com
72 months old on the run hours on
from the date of data the control
manufacture. plate. panel.

sorry
old timer
but you’ve
been
around
too long
to get
your pump
replaced
for free!

PS 715 47 JUN 12

715 46-47.indd 1-2 5/1/12 4:51 PM

Lightweight Water Purifier (LWP)…
First Time
urg! this
water is
wHoOps!
I guess I
Operation
awful! forgot to
install the water dawgs, make sure the
membranes! reverse osmosis (ro) membranes
are installed in the lightweight
water purifier (lwp) when you
operate the system.

without the
membranes in it’s
place, you’re not that
purifying water! simple.

LWPs are shipped from the manufacturer with RO simulators installed. The
simulators are used only for storage, shipping, training and system testing. When
installed, they simulate realistic LWP operation without using the RO membranes.
That way the membranes stay new, sealed and preserved until they’re needed for a
water mission. Look at WP 0046-6 to -8 in TM 10-4610-310-13 (Oct 09) for info on
how to install and remove the membranes.
Use the Right Simulator Plug
Many of these LWPs were
ielded with simulators in the
wrong coniguration. Here’s
the correct coniguration: two
simulators with a plug and
ive simulators with a hole.
That way you’ll get the right
product water settings needed
for operating the system with 2 simulators with plugs 5 simulators with holes
simulators installed.
By the way, NSN 4610-01-527-3761 gets the simulator with a hole. This setup is
shown as Item 47 in WP 0138-19 of TM 10-4610-310-13 (Oct 09).
PS 715 48 JUN 12
Computer Cleaning Kit
the all-in-one computer
regular cleaning cleaning kit, part number
helps keep your Ivr52500, comes with the
computer, its tools you need.
components
and connected
equipment in
good working
order.

order it from the gsa advantage website:

https://www.gsaadvantage.gov/advantage/main/start_page.do

you can …or

use the in the
kit in the field.
office…

the kit includes… • 6.75-oz spray bottle

of antistatic cleaner
all • four lint-free wipes
components • blower brush
come housed
in a durable • retractable keyboard brush
storage box • CD/DVD laser lens cleaner
that doubles
as a cd/dvd • reusable micro iber
holder. cleaning cloth

PS 715 49 JUN 12
Microphone Headsets…

Peltor® No Longer Restricted

dude! is that you can’t
a peltor® have that! not any-
comtac III it’s only for more!
microphone the special
headset? ops guys.

Between November 2010 and May 2011, conventional Army units submitted more
than 850 requisitions for the Peltor® COMTAC III™ microphone headset. All the
requisitions were rejected.
The Army’s Rapid Equipping Force (REF) looked into the problem and here’s
what they found: The source of supply (SOS) code for the headsets was F56. That
SOS is maintained and used only by Special Operations Forces. That’s why requests
from outside of Special Forces were rejected.
REF succeeded in making the Peltor® headsets available to all Army units. Now
the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) manages the headsets. They carry an SOS code
of SMS.
here’s Single or dual
what NSN Push-to-talk
you can communications Color
5965-01-572- (PTT)
order… channels
Comes with
7941 Single Olive drab one PTT
Comes with
7829 Single Coyote brown one PTT
Comes with
7946 Dual Olive drab two PTTs
Comes with
7797 Dual Coyote brown two PTTs
You can also order a spare boom microphone with NSN 5965-01-572-7803.
For more information, contact an REF logistics oficer at 703-704-0526 or
703-704-2090.
PS 715 50 JUN 12
Heraldic Items…

Display
Them
Proudly
WHEther you
need a flag,
a guidon or
streamers…
read on to
find out HOW
you get them!

Army units can order Army heraldic items online from the U.S. Army TACOM Clothing
and Heraldry Product Support Integration Directorate (PSID). Here’s their website:
http://www.heraldry.army.mil/

The link takes you

to a DD Form 1348-6,
where you can fill
out and submit a
request for the item
you want.

From the home page, click on

Create Heraldry Request Clothing and
Heraldry will not
(DD 1348-6). accept fax or paper
copies of DD Form
1348-6.

Requisitions for lags should include the complete unit name.

Here’s what you can Requisitions for guidons should include company letter or HQ
order online: designation.
The products are free issue for active Army and Army Reserve
• battalion and
units. National Guard units can pay with a government credit
organizational lags
card or provide a two-digit fund code for their heraldic items.
• unit guidons
The Clothing and Heraldry PSID keeps all oficial drawings
• 2-, 3- and 4-ft
created by the Institute of Heraldry. This information is used to
campaign
manufacture items and to ind out if units are eligible for items.
participation
For more information, phone (877) 827-9026. Or click on
streamers
Contact Us under Help and Information on the home page.

PS 715 51 JUN 12
Chaplaincy.…
Storage for Religious Supplies You can find more chaplaincy
items at the Defense
Logistics Agency (DLA)
Chaplain Services website:
We’ve got https://www.dla.mil/chaplain/
more books
than space to
store them.

The Army I‘ve heard

used to have about a couple
a book chest of trunks you
in the supply might find useful …be
system. Not for storing and sTROng and
anymore. transporting Courageous…
them. These items include:
• chaplain kits and accessories
• field items
• furniture
The trunks come in
two sizes. They’re made • Buddhist, Muslim, Christian
of weather-resistant, and Jewish items.
high-impact plastic.
They’re constructed
to keep water out and
the contents safe. Combat Eyewear…

Item Size in Inches NSN 8460-01-471- Order ReplaCement Parts, Save $

Trunk, locker 36 1/4 x 18 1/4 x 20 1/4 1035
Here’s a suggestion
Trunk, locker 24 1/4 x 20 1/4 x 12 1/2 1024 for units ordering
combat eyewear…

The trunks have And if you need it’s a lightweight

interlocking latches, even more space, container that
and you can padlock consider ordering converts into a
them. They come with the chaplaincy portable altar or
molded handle grips logistical support a work station with
and an internal tray. package (CLSP), NSN storage space for
9925-01-479-5319. religious supplies.

I f spectacles or goggles get chipped, scratched, bent or broken, don’t order a complete
eyewear system. That’s expensive.
Instead, order replacement lenses and frames at a fraction of the cost. Get them
through the Army supply system. Unit supply personnel should determine whether a
complete eyewear system is needed or if a replacement part will do.
Currently available parts are on the PS Hot Topics web page:
https://www.logsa.army.mil/psmag/topics.cfm
Once you’re on the Hot Topics page, scroll down and click on Combat Eyewear
Replacement Parts. On the next screen, click on MCEP Table of Replacement Items 20-
Jan-12. Here you’ll ind a table of replacement lenses, frames and straps for all combat
PS 715 52 JUN 12 eyewear on the Army’s authorized protective eyewear list (APEL).

715 52-53.indd 1-2 5/4/12 3:18 PM

Maintenance Management… here Aviation and Missiles
Be a Super Steward
are the
urls once
again for
submitting

with PQDRs! pqdrs…

Recently, a Soldier went to

a lot of trouble to submit a
detailed SMART suggestion…

I’ve got Later… Oh, man... turns out

a great those switches were
idea for a defective from the
workaround on manufacturer!
this defective
thermostatic So I wasted
switch! all that time
and effort for
Submit all aviation and missile PQDRs at https://jdrs.mil
I’m going nothing!
to send it in
to SMART and
see if I can win Other Non-Aviation/Missile
some bucks.
TACOM and CECOM-managed (B16) Items

This is a real and good example

of why it’s important for all of
us to report problems with Army
parts or equipment.

if more folks … and

in the field had spared
reported those this well-
defective switches meaning
by filing PQDRs, Soldier
the Army might some
have spotted a disappoint-
pattern sooner… ment!

The Army buys equipment and parts expecting them to work. But the Army doesn’t
Submit TACOM and CECOM-managed (B16) PQDRs at
know there’s a problem with something unless you report it. That’s why it’s important https://www.pdrep.csd.disa.mil/
to submit a product quality deiciency report (PQDR) for every malfunctioning or
defective item, part or tool you ind. From aircraft to vice grips, no item is too big or
small for a PQDR.
When you submit PQDRs, problems can be addressed through the parts PQDR There’s no Plus,
replacement or reimbursement processes, and your unit won’t be throwing money
training is monetary reward reporting a
available for turning in a defect may
down the drain. on their PQDR, but you can even prevent
PQDRs also help item managers spot patterns so they can investigate any potential
websites. take pride in the an accident
fact you’re being a and save
quality issues with manufacturers. good steward of someone
We showed you the steps for submitting PQDRs in PS 694 (Sept 10):
taxpayer dollars. from injury.

https://www.logsa.army.mil/psmag/archives/PS2010/694/694-54-55.pdf

PS 715 54 JUN 12 PS 715 55 JUN 12

715 54-55.indd 1-2 5/1/12 4:51 PM

Ahhh… this fix is Naw… that’s you don’t need to
just what the doctor too much work to do that much! just

How to
ordered! you should try and write it in send the info to me,
send in your clever that funny way. Soldier. I’ll take it
idea to PS. from there.

Submit e
icl
an Art
to PS

O dds are that if one person in the ield is having a problem with supplies, equipment or Try to include any references, such as TM procedures, that are affected. Unless it’s a very
maintenance procedures, so are others. short article (what we call a brief, like those you read in Connie’s Post Scripts), any photos
PS offers a good way to share solutions We you include to help illustrate the article are welcome, too. That gives our artists a reference
and makes a point of getting the word out often for drawing technical art.
get
worldwide. Your maintenance solutions, asked Digital jpgs are best, but do not send them embedded in documents. That decreases
supply procedures or ideas in other areas are how to photo quality and makes them unusable.
submit
welcomed and encouraged. an
A PS writer will take your submission and put it into our style, and run it by a subject
For example, if a maintenance TM skips article matter expert for the end item or process. Everything you read in PS is approved by the
over something important, instructions to PS. Army’s authorized proponent for that item or area before publication. That’s how you
aren’t clear or you know how a procedure know our info is good to go.
but
can be done better or more safely, why not Some of When you’re ready to take the PS plunge, please send your article and related attach-
share your wisdom with everyone? you may ments to:
not ask [email protected]
It’s a good idea to submit a DA Form 2028, because We look forward to your contribution. You’ll hear from us soon!
Recommended Changes to Publications and you
assume
Blank Forms, too, especially if something is it’s too if you’re sending illustrations don’t try to Write the
wrong in a TM. We told you how to do that hard to or photos they should not be Article in our format!
write embedded in a word processing We’ll do that.
on Pages 58-59 in PS 706 (Sep 11). Then let in our document or a slide presentation. and don’t worry about
PS help spread the word, because we can do style. Send them as attachments. the font or typesize.
that faster than a TM can be updated.

Let’s put here are

that notion some basic
to rest. questions an
article should
All you address…
need to do
is to send
us an email • What is the problem?
with your • What caused the problem?
proposed
article.
• What are the costs
(in terms of time/extra work/money/etc.)?
Yep, it’s • What is the solution to the problem? Drop us your story ideas. We gladly welcome them!
just that (There may be more than one.)
easy.
• How is the solution achieved, and by whom? PS 715 57 JUN 12

715 56-57.indd 1-2 5/1/12 4:51 PM

This generator Why can’t Well, you can get your parts that way—it’s called a kit. Kits allow you to order
is shot. Look at they come in
everything you need for your services, rebuild, or Reset programs with just one NSN,
Kits all these parts
I have to find.
one package?
and get it all shipped in one box or package. Open it and put on 100 percent of the
replacement parts. It’s that easy.
Make How do you ind these kits? That’s the easiest part of all. Just go to DLA’s Land
Kitting web page with your CAC:
Annual http://www.landandmaritime.dla.mil/programs/kitting/default.aspx
if, for …go to the

Services example, you’re

looking for a
kit to work on
drop down box in
the search field,
select weapon
…and next go
to the search
text box and …click on
search.
your m1A1… type m1A1...
a
system…

Breeze!
that’s they can come
a great in one package here’s
question, if you order how…
soldier! the kit!

this is the screen you’ll

see if you search for M1A1
under weapon system.

W hen it’s time to do the annual service on a vehicle, the motor sergeant assigns a
mechanic to do the service. All the current kits will appear showing the nomenclature, description, NSN,
If you’re the mechanic and you’re lucky, the motor sergeant will give you a list of number of component lines, shelf life, source of supply, price, and the amount of
the needed part numbers. If not, you have to search the TM to ind out which parts stock on hand. Want to know what’s in a kit? Click on the nomenclature and it lists
you need. Then you turn the list over to the maintenance clerk to ind out if the parts all the sub components.
are on hand or need to be ordered. That adds up to a lot of non-wrench-turning time. Do you have an idea for a kit that would help you and other Soldiers for a land-
Worse, maybe you’ve started the service, but discovered a part is missing. Maybe based weapons system? Just go to the Request a Kit page on the website and enter
it didn’t get ordered, maybe it’s misplaced, or maybe someone else needed that same the info requested. The DLA Land Kitting Team will make it easy as pie, and they’ll
part and grabbed it before you did. even put the kit together for you.
Don’t you wish that all you had to do was order one NSN to get all the parts you Need help inding a kit? Contact the Land Kitting Team at DSN 850-1759, (614)
need? And, as long as you’re wishing, wouldn’t it be nice if they all came in one box? 692-1759, or email:
[email protected]
No “forgot to order the parts,” no “lost parts,” no “borrowed” parts and no
lost time. PS 715 59 JUN 12

715 58-59.indd 1-2 4/20/12 10:49 AM

ACH TM Number AFES Informational Video Now Available
Connie's Post Scripts Correction All automatic ire extinguisher systems (AFES) serve the same purpose: to quickly put out ires
in tactical and combat vehicles and to protect the vehicle’s driver and passengers. To help
On Page 58 in PS 713 (Apr 12), the TM with this, TACOM LCMC has released an informational video on the AFES. The video discusses
number we gave for the Operator’s common components across many platforms. It also tells you how to properly operate the AFES.
FMTV Troop Limits Decal Manual for Advanced Combat Helmet To get a free copy for your unit, call DSN 786-4276, (586) 282-4276, or email:
Need to know how many troops can safely it into (May 10) was wrong. It should be TM [email protected]
your FMTV truck’s cab or cargo bed? Eyeball the 10-8470-204-10. Make sure you give them a good military shipping address.
troop capacity table in the operator’s manuals.
There’s also a troop capacity decal, NSN 7690-01-
559-9001, being installed in the cab on the power
AMCOM 2028 Checkup M1112 Axle Caterpillar Diagnostic Website
distribution cover. If your truck doesn’t have one, If you’ve submitted an unclassiied DA Spindle Nut To get the diagnostic procedures for electronic
order it. And note these limits: Form 2028, Recommended Changes to
To get a spindle nut for the axle on your engines and transmissions on Caterpillar
Equipment Technical Publications, and
Cargo M1112 400-gal water trailer, use NSN construction equipment, visit this URL:
Model Cab want to check the latest status, go to:
bed 5310-01-226-8735. This NSN replaces the https://akoapps.amrdec.army.mil/tacom
https://pubsweb.redstone.army.mil/
M1078/M1081/ one shown as Item 28 in Fig 13 of TM By the way, you’ll need your CAC card to access
3 troops 12 troops Then click on the link AMCOM 2028’s
M1090/M1094 9-2330-397-14&P. this website.
Online (Online Request). While there,
M1083/M1084/M1093 3 troops 14 troops you can also submit a new unclassiied
M1085/M1086 3 troops 20 troops 2028, view web 2028 attachments ATLAS II Forklift Special Seal Tool
All others 3 troops No troops and email the AMCOM 2028 point of The wrong rear seal installation tool was added to 200 ATLAS II special tool kits. The correct tool
contact. is NSN 5120-01-334-7012. You can get a replacement tool from JLG Industries by contacting Terri
Bradley toll free at (866) 554-7782 (Press 1 for parts), (717) 485-5161, ext. 3719, or by email at:
New Website for Cancelled CECOM (B16) Requisitions [email protected]
The tool is free to units through 13 Sep 12. After that, you’ll have to order it through the
Requisition cancellation notices at CECOM (B16) are now automated, and there is a new supply system or direct from JLG.
website that can tell you why your B16 requisition was cancelled. You’ll need your Common
Access Card (CAC) to access it. Go to: https://lrcweb1.apg.army.mil/i2log/misc/ca.cfm
You can search for your requisition by document number, DODAAC or NIIN. Questions? New URL for PM J-AIT M500 TM Correct
Contact Diane Johnson at DSN 848-6322, (443) 861-6322, or email: [email protected]
The Product Manager Joint-Automatic Identiica-
on Extractors
tion Technology (PM J-AIT) website is now at: On Page 37 of PS 711 (Feb 12), we said
A New Slice of M1114, M1151A1 http://www.ait.army.mil that the M500 shotgun’s TM 9-1005-
Check it out for support on AIT, Radio Frequency 338-13&P had the cartridge extractors
CECOM’s PIE HMMWV OGPK Glass In-Transit Visibility (RF-ITV) and Radio Frequency reversed in WP 0029 00-1. That was
The Logistic Readiness Center’s (LRC) Policy and Need to replace the objective gunner Identiication (RFID) hardware, software, techni- wrong. The extractors are not reversed
Information Encyclopedia (PIE) lets you search protection kit’s (OGPK) weapon shield cal engineering and maintenance. and the TM is correct.
for CECOM equipment by type, NSN/NIIN, LIN, and side glass on your M1114 and
part number/drawing number, TM number, M1151A1 HMMWVs? Use the following
item name or ofice symbol. The database NSNs:
recently moved. The new URL is: Left side weapon shield glass -
https://lrcweb1.apg.army.mil/pie/index.cfm NSN 6650-01-550-7555
For more information about LRC’s PIE, Right side weapon shield glass -
contact Jeff Potter at DSN 848-6458, (443) 861- NSN 6650-01-550-7525
6458, or email: Side glass (bucket) -
[email protected] NSN 6650-01-550-7534

PS 715 60 JUN 12

715 60-61.indd 1-2 5/2/12 2:26 PM

Dirty • Cloged
Injectors
Fuel
• Power Los
Causes… • A Rough-
Runing
Engine

Check Fuel Filters Daily!