PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-680
PS, The Preventative Maintenance Monthly
ISSUE 680
JULY 2009
6
PS 680
JUL 09
7
PS 680
JUL 09
Dear Half-Mast,
When it’s time to pull the powerpack on a Bradley, new mechanics always
seem to scratch their heads when it comes to the prop shaft on the right
side of the engine compartment.
Two of the bearing cap screws are
easy to reach. The problem is with the
other two. Both screws are behind the
prop shaft, so trying to get a wrench
on ‘em just results in busted knuckles.
The answer to the problem is in the
TM, but for some reason it always
seems to be overlooked.
You need to tow the Bradley forward
about a foot. That rotates the prop
shaft 180° and brings the two hidden
screws to the outside so they can be
easily removed.
Can you pass the word? We’re starting to run out of bandages!
SFC S.T.B.
H
ow you prepare a disabled M109A6 Paladin for towing may determine whether or
not you’re a basket case by the time you get back to the motor pool.
If the Paladin’s stowage baskets are locked in the rear position and a tow bar is used,
the baskets may hit the M88A1 recovery vehicle during turns. That can damage the
baskets or even rip them completely loose. It doesn’t do the M88A1 any good either.
Dear Sergeant S.T.B.,
Consider the word passed. Mechanics, this is just another reason why it’s
important to follow the TM step-by-step when performing a
maintenance task. You won’t miss an important step and you’ll
keep the skin on your knuckles!
So lock the baskets in the forward position to keep them out of the way during
towing.
That step makes the baskets the widest portion of the howitzer, so you may need to
return them to the rear position when towing through a narrow area. Just remember to
lock the baskets in the forward position once you’re back in the open.
Any time you must tow a Paladin with the baskets in the rear position, use a ground
guide to prevent damage during turns.
Knuckle Buster Dilemma
Basket Position
Does
Matter
M2/M3-Series Bradleys…
Knuckle Buster Dilemma
M88A1 Recovery Vehicle, M109A6 Paladin…
Basket Position
Does
Matter
Towing with baskets swung
to rear can damage hinges…
…or rip baskets completely off
ouch!
my
knuckles!!
maybe we
shoulda
looked
at the TM
first!
I’M HERE! READY
FOR A TOW?
just a
minute!
someone needs
to reposition
my stowage
baskets!
Bearing cap screws on
inside
are hard to reach
680.06-07.indd
1-2
6/10/09
2:53:58 PM
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