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 209 of 775

TM 9-2350-311-10

2-10 OPERATING PROCEDURES - CONTINUED

2-10.5 Towing Operations

Vehicle engines must be shut off and brakes applied while tow cables are being connected

or disconnected to prevent injury to personnel.

An observer must be used to assist the driver when rigging the vehicle and during towing

operations to prevent injury.

To avoid damage, the howitzer is authorized to tow only one vehicle at a time and to tow only

when another vehicle is disabled or when towing to start the engine.

In an emergency, a vehicle can be towed for a short distance (not more than 1/4 mile (.40

km)) without disconnecting universal joints. Put transmission shift control lever in N (neutral)

before starting towing operation. Do not tow disabled vehicle over 10 mph. Proceed being

extra careful not to shift into gear accidentally.

Vehicle must be towed backwards to keep the cannon from banging into the towing vehicle.

Use a tow bar when towing another vehicle. When universal joints are disconnected, you

can’t steer or brake.

Tow cables may be used to tow a disabled vehicle short distances on fairly level terrain only

when brakes are operational. When towing a vehicle, there is a danger the towed vehicle will

overrun the towing vehicle.

Make sure tow cables are crossed to prevent damage to track.

Towing pintle assembly must not be used to position or push vehicle sideways.

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