TB-9-1000-234-13
EXERCISING OF RECOIL MECHANISMS AND EQUILIBRATORS
TECHNICAL BULLETIN
SEPTEMBER 2010
TB-9-1000-234-13 - Page 11 of 52
TB 9-1000-234-13
1-1
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1.
Purpose.
This bulletin provides instructions and guidance on methods of exercising all types of
recoil mechanisms and equilibrators, on weapons mounted or unmounted, not fired for prolonged periods,
in the field, in storage, or at a manufacturer or overhaul facility.
1.2.
Scope.
a.
The instructions in this publication are applicable to operator, organizational, direct support,
general support, and depot maintenance personnel responsible for exercising recoil
mechanisms and equilibrators.
b.
This publication provides periodic preventive maintenance that is not covered in pertinent
weapon manuals and specific methods for exercising each type of hydropneumatic recoil
mechanism, hydrospring recoil mechanism, and equilibrator.
c.
Only the particular recoil mechanisms listed in table 1-1 do not require exercising.
Table 1-1.
Recoil Mechanisms Which Do Not Require Exercising
RECOIL MECHANISM MODEL NUMBER
WEAPON SYSTEM
M1A8
HOWITZER, PACK:
75-mm, M116
M2A4
*HOWITZER, LIGHT-TOWED:
105-mm, M101 and
M2A5
M101A1
M6AI
*HOWITZER, MEDIUM, TOWED:
155-mm, M114
M6A2
M6B2
M37
HOWITZER, LIGHT, TOWED:
105-mm, M102
M37A1
*M101, M101A1, and M114 Howitzers with other recoil mechanisms will require exercising.
1.3
General Exercising Procedures.
a.
General.
Exercising is the moving of rods and pistons in the recoil mechanism to
reestablish a fluid film between the packings, seals, and sliding surfaces. It prevents drying
of seals and corrosion of rod surface at the packing. Variations of exercising methods may
be used, depending on availability of equipment. The exercising method selected must not
be performed in such a way as to be injurious to the weapon and thereby cause future
malfunctions. Deficiencies noted will be recorded on appropriate forms in accordance with
DA PAM 750-8. Update your DA Form 2408-4 after exercising the recoil. Go to:
b.
Exercising Frequency.
Hydropneumatic and hydrospring recoil mechanism and pneumatic
and hydropneumatic equilibrators must be inspected and exercised at least every 120 days.
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