TM-9-2350-311-10

HOWITZER, MEDIUM, SELF-PROPELLED, 155MM; M109A2, M109A3, M109A4 AND M109A5

TECHNICAL MANUAL; OPERATOR’S MANUAL

NOVEMBER 1994

TM-9-2350-311-10 - Page 192 of 775

TM 9-2350-311-10

2-10 OPERATING PROCEDURES — CONTINUED

2-10.1 Starting Procedures — Continued

a. Starting Engine — Continued

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Before starting engine, check for hydrostatic lock as indicated by engine starting to turn over with

starter, then stopping or starter sounds as if straining when cranking engine. If hydrostatic lock is

suspected, stop cranking immediately and notify unit maintenance.

Check for hydrostatic lock by intermittently actuating STARTER control switch (7).

Release FUEL SHUTOFF control assembly handle (6).

Place hand throttle control lever (8) in IDLE position.

If fuel filters have been drained, turn FUEL PRIME control switch (9) to ON, hold for 45 seconds, and

then release.

• Do not operate starter over 30 seconds (on M109A2 and M109A3 vehicles this must be

timed). If engine does not start, allow two minute cooling-off period before trying to start

again. Four start attempts should be made before combat override switch

(M109A4/M109A5) is used or unit maintenance is notified.

• Combat override switch (M109A4/M109A5)

determined by section chief. Excessive use

damage to starter or low battery voltage.

NOTE

should be used in emergencies only, as

of combat override switch could result in

• Refer to cold weather starting procedures when temperature is below 30° F (– 1° C) when

using engine model 7083-7396 or 40° F (4° C) when using LHR engine model 7083-7391, or

if engine will not start in moderately cold weather (para 2–20.4).

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