PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-608
PS, The Preventative Maintenance Monthly
ISSUE 608
JULY 2003
PS 608
JULY 03
Combat Vehicles…
T
he fire resistant hydraulic (FRH) fluid, MIL-H-46170, and turboshaft oil, MIL-L-
23699, used in your combat vehicles are safe—as long as you take the right person-
al protective measures.
FRH and turboshaft oil both contain tricresyl phosphate (TCP) that, when taken
internally, can cause physical paralysis. Of course, no one would purposely drink
hydraulic fluid, but TCP can also be absorbed through contact with the skin.
And the effects of TCP are cumulative. A little exposure today, a little tomorrow,
and some more next week all add together and build up in your system. Enough
exposure over a long enough period can result in paralysis.
TCP is in such a low concentration that the proper protective equipment and good
hygiene practices make FRH and turboshaft oil safe to use.
Gloves, long sleeves, an apron, goggles and a face shield provide good protection.
Just make sure you wash up with soap and water after using FRH and turboshaft oil.
Never eat, smoke, or rub your eyes before cleaning up.
Always wash your clothing before wearing it again, too. Normal washing with
detergent removes all traces of TCP.
PS 608
JULY 03
8
M88A1 Recovery Vehicle, M60 AVLB…
M88A1 Recovery Vehicle, M60 AVLB…
Dear Half-Mast,
Some of the torsion bars on our M60 bridge launchers have black
tape wrapped around them. In most cases, that tape is frayed and
coming loose.
Can you tell me what the tape is for and how to get new tape to
replace the old stuff?
SFC J.B.
Dear Sergeant J.B.,
Yes and no! The old tape was designed to cushion the torsion bars during trans-
port and handling. It prevented dings and cuts that could weaken the torsion bars
and allow them to snap.
There is no requirement for replacing the tape. In fact, tests have shown that the
tape can trap moisture, allowing corrosion to get a foothold.
Your best bet is to remove the old tape. If you receive any more torsion bars with
tape already applied, remove it before installation.
so many
types of
tape!
how do I
know
which
one
to use on
the torsion
bars?
good
knight!
that’s not
the right
protection
for frh and
turboshaft
oil!
no frh or
turboshaft
oil worries
for me!
now I’m
ready!
Back to TopBack to Top
