TB-9-1000-234-13
EXERCISING OF RECOIL MECHANISMS AND EQUILIBRATORS
TECHNICAL BULLETIN
SEPTEMBER 2010
TB-9-1000-234-13 - Page 26 of 52
TB 9-1000-234-13
2-10
2.3
Exercising Equilibrators.
a.
General.
Pneumatic and hydropneumatic equilibrators must be exercised periodically for
reasons given in paragraph 1.3. Proper exercising of equilibrators at least every six months, as
outlined in paragraph 2.3b below, is essential to maintain them in serviceable condition.
b.
Angled Equilibrators.
To exercise equilibrators mounted on a carriage or vehicle, elevate and
depress the cannon at least three times.
c.
Equilibrated Elevating Cylinders (Howitzer M109 Series).
(1)
To exercise the equilibrated elevating cylinders on the Howitzer M109 Series, activate the
cab hydraulic system and elevate and depress the cannon through its full range at least
three times.
(2)
If it is not practical to activate the cab hydraulic system, use the elevation hand pump and
elevate and depress the cannon through its full range at least once.
2.4
Exercising Unmounted Hydropneumatic Recoil Mechanisms and Equilibrators in Storage.
a.
General.
The procedures given in the preceding paragraphs apply to hydropneumatic type
recoil mechanisms or equilibrators in storage. When exercising has been completed, restore
proper preservatives in accordance with MIL-P-14232 and pertinent Packaging and Data
Sheets. Record the date of exercising on a tag and attach to recoil mechanism or equilibrator.
b.
Unmounted Hydropneumatic Recoil Mechanisms.
If the hydropneumatic recoil mechanism
is of the independent type and unmounted, it will be necessary to exercise the recoil cylinder
assembly and counter-recoil assembly separately. The force required to exercise the recoil
cylinder assembly is only that force necessary to overcome friction. Extension of 6 inches will be
enough for the recoil cylinder and counter-recoil assembly. An adapter may be improvised for
extending and retracting the recoil piston by a direct pull or a jacking process. The counter-recoil
assembly will return to a retracted position on its own volition due to nitrogen pressure. Recoil
mechanisms may also be exercised with 7-1/2 horsepower portable gymnasticator (RIA drawing
E7113950) and pertinent adapters as follows:
Adapter D7123504 (RIA drawing (for M1 Series recoil mechanisms)
Adapter D7123508 (RIA drawing (for M2 Series recoil mechanisms)
Adapter D7123510 (RIA drawing (for M6 Series recoil mechanisms)
Adapter D7123512 (RIA drawing (for M4 Series recoil mechanisms)
c.
Equilibrators.
Equilibrators in storage may or may not contain high nitrogen pressure.
Equilibrators may be exercised by anchoring one end to the floor or wall and pulling the other
end with a suitable power source. Extend the equilibrators 8 inches.
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