PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-700

PS, The Preventative Maintenance Monthly

ISSUE 700

MARCH 2011
PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-700 - Page 8 of 33
12
PS 700
MAR 11
13
PS 700
MAR 11
M
echanics, just because something looks a little
worn doesn’t mean it’s ready for the scrap heap. The
equalizer beam (walker beam) on the PLS and HEMTT
is a perfect example.
When
inspecting
the
walker beam bushings, it’s
easy to be fooled. Cracked
or
wrinkled
paint
can
make the bushings look
like they’re dry rotted. A
few cuts and gouges can
also make them look ready
for replacement.
But before you replace
the bushings, look a little
closer. Movement is the
key to bad bushings. If
they
turn
(movement
against the beam bore) or
wallow (bushing is more
narrow in some spots than
others), it’s time to replace
‘em. Otherwise, they’ve
still got a lot of miles left.
Testing
You need to test your VRLA battery
before
installing it in a vehicle and
before
turning it in as unserviceable. To get an accurate view of the battery’s health, fully
charge it before testing.
There are several tools you can use to test the VRLA battery: a voltage meter, a
load tester or a conductance tester (digital battery tester-analyzer).
Voltage meters are found in the SATS, Shop Equipment Contact (SECM) (LIN
S25681), NSN 4940-01-548-9064; Forward Repair System (FRS) (LIN F64544),
NSN 4940-01-533-1621; and the Field Maintenance Module 1 (LIN T65312), NSN
The multimeter will allow you to conduct an open circuit voltage (OCV) test
of the battery. If the OCV is below 12.85V, you must recharge the battery and
v test again.
Load testers, such as NSN 6130-01-447-7294, will give you an indication of the
battery’s ability to hold its voltage while under load. They are found in the FRS,
Number 1 Common, and the Number 2 Common tool sets.
Make sure you read the operator’s manual before using load testers. Batteries
should be fully charged before using a load tester and must be recharged after using
a load tester.
Conductance testers are found in the SATS and the FRS. These testers are very
sensitive and can fnd battery deFects or weaknesses long beFore any problem or
capacity loss is noticed. This simple-to-use tester has a digital menu screen that
allows the user to identify battery voltage, cold cranking amps, and battery condition.
before you charge or test the vrla
battery, make sure you check tb 9-6140-
252-13,
field and sustainment maintenance
and recovery procedures for automotive
hawker armasafe plus battery,
for the
proper procedures.
I
love
all this
attention!
PLS, HEMTT…
Serviceability Is
More
Than
Skin Deep
why, you young
whippersnapper!
a few wrinkles
doesn’t
mean
my bushings need replacing!
Paint
cracks,
wrinkles
and
minor
cuts are
OK
Movement or
wallowing?
Replace
bushing
700.12-13.indd
1-2
1/28/11
5:36 PM
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