TM-9-2350-238-20-1
HULL AND RELATED COMPONENTS RECOVERY VEHICLE, FULL TRACKED: LIGHT, ARMORED, M578
TECHNICAL MANUAL; UNIT MAINTENANCE MANUAL
MAY 1994
TM-9-2350-238-20-1 - Page 26 of 1364
TM 9-2350-238-20-1
Section Ill. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
1-11. GENERAL.
a.
The M578 Recovery Vehicle is a full-tracked, self-propelled recovery vehicle with a 30,000 lb
(13,620 kg) boom winch and a 60,000 lb (27,240 kg) tow winch mounted in an armored cab. The
vehicle is used to pick up or tow disabled mechanical equipment, such as a crane at repair bases;
and as a carrying platform for spare parts and maintenance personnel. The vehicle is highly mobile
and maneuverable and may be transported in a large cargo aircraft.
b.
The M578 Recovery Vehicle is capable of long-range, high-speed operation on improved
roads. It can traverse rough terrain, muddy and marsh ground, snow or ice, and it can ford streams
to a depth of 42 in. (107 cm). The vehicle has: 1) a low, all-welded steel structure with a turret-
mounted cab; 2) a suspension lockout system; and 3) a spade assembly. The spade assembly
provides a stable platform to increase the lifting capabilities of the winch. The suspension lockout
system, boom, winches, cab, and spade are hydraulically powered. Power is supplied by a V-8
diesel engine and a gearsteer transmission.
1-18
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