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Would you stake your life, right now, on the condition of your equipment?
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NEWS | Nov. 13, 2020

SINCGARS: Better Communication Through Preventive Maintenance

This article initially appeared in PS 762 (May 16), pp. 52-53.

Dear Editor,

We take care of the RT-1523E and -1523F SINCGARS at Ft. Stewart. We can testify loud and clear that these tips will boost radio communication:
 
  • Unlock knobs by gently pulling them out before turning them. We replace many knobs because Soldiers forget this simple rule. They repeatedly force the knobs to turn and eventually the knobs stop working. 
 
Pull knob out before turning
Pull knob out before turning
 
  • Don’t force the P1 cable connector when installing it in the vehicle amplifier adapter (VAA). You must align the P1 before you lock it in place. If it won’t lock in easily, it’s not aligned. If you force it on, you break the P1 pins. That means no commo.  We usually replace way too many P1 connectors. At $220 a shot, it adds up to real money.
Forcing P1 connector ruins pins
Forcing P1 connector ruins pins
 
  • Trouble transmitting? Clean the connector pins. Just spending a few seconds cleaning connector pins with isopropyl alcohol, NSN 6810-00-753-4993, and a foam swab will often erase communication problems.
Clean connector pins with swab and isopropyl alcohol
Clean connector pins with swab and isopropyl alcohol
 
 
  • When installing the battery, don’t jerk on the battery cable. That puts the radio out of business. 
     
  • Don’t pry the battery connector cover off the battery. That damages the connector. The cover has a wire loop that lets you easily pull off the cover. If it’s missing, tell your repairman. He can replace it with NSN 5995-01-461-8616. Of course, when you install the battery, don’t make the mistake of getting the loop caught under the battery. That keeps you out of the loop.
     
Use loop to remove battery connector cover and replace if missing
Use loop to remove battery connector cover and replace if missing 
 
SGT Frederick Barnes
SSG James Rodgers
632nd Mtn Co
Ft. Stewart, GA
Editor’s note: We hear you loud and clear. Thanks for the good advice.

 
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