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 627 of 775

TM 9-2350-311-10

5-16 PREPARATION FOR FIRING — CONTINUED

b. M712 Projectile — Continued

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(c) Turn code switch (2) or time switch (3) back the other way and set on correct number. Be sure that

number on code or time switch is centered on scribe line.

Set elevation of the cannon tube to approximately 300 mils. Place loading tray in loading position.

Pass the M712 projectile (1) through the rear of the howitzer.

Place the M712 projectile (1) on the loading tray with the nose cone (4) window (5) approximately 3

inches (7.62 cm) from the breech ring. Support the rear end of the M712 projectile at all times until it is

loaded into the cannon tube. Recheck the nose cone window and obturator (6) for cleanliness. If

necessary, wipe clean using a lint free cloth (item 10, Appx D) or tissue.

Rotate the M712 projectile (1) until code and time switches (2 and 3) are up and then push M712

projectile forward until code and time switches are directly under overhead light (approximately 10 inches

(25.40 cm) from breech ring).

Visually recheck code and time switches (2 and 3). If numbers are not centered on scribe lines, or

correct numbers have not been set, set them now, following procedures in step 3. Verify that the steel fin

and wing retainer clamps have been removed. If the clamps have not been removed, remove before

ramming the round.

The projectile is now ready to load for firing. Loading, ramming, and firing the M712 projectile is the

same as for all other ammunition in this manual.

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