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JLTV A1 FOV: Inspect Tow Eyes for Cracks NOW!
By | March 8, 2024
According to TACOM SOUM 23-002, cracks have been found on the front tow eyes of some JLTV A1s and the cracks could cause the tow eyes to fail. A tow eye failure could potentially cause a fatal accident. Get more info here...

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M107A1 MFS TRM: Updated -10 and -23&P TMs
By | Feb. 7, 2024
The -10 and 23&P TMs for the M107A1 modular fuel system tank rack module (MFS TRM) have been updated. Get the scoop here...

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HMMWV: Ordering A/C Caution Decals
By | Jan. 31, 2024
Maintenance leaders, no NSNs are assigned for HMMWV A/C caution decals. To get the decals, you’ll need to order them from the manufacturer. Get the part numbers here...

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Ground Vehicles: Removing Shippers Chalk Writing
By | Jan. 27, 2024
A unit writes to MSG Half-Mast about removing the shipper’s chalk writing on their vehicles. He replies with various remedies. Find out how they can solve the problem here…...

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HIMARS: Updated Operator Lessons in UTAP for Marines
By | Jan. 26, 2024
Marines, UTAP has recently updated your HIMARS operator lessons 1-5. Get a link to the updates here...

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HMMWV: Electronic Speedometer Kit
By | Jan. 24, 2024
Warfighters, you can replace the mechanical speedometer for your HMMWV with the electronic speedometer. Get the info here...

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M967A1, M969A1, M969A2 Fuel Tankers: New Throttle Cable NSN
By | Jan. 10, 2024
The throttle cable NSN for M967A1, M969A1 and M969A2 fuel tankers has been replaced with a new NSN. Get the NSN here...

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M900-series Fuel Tankers: Use the Proper Rim
By | Dec. 7, 2023
If you need a rim for your fuel tankers, be sure to order the correct one. There are two (2) rims shown in TM 9-2330-339-23P (Dec 15). Get the info you need here...

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HMMWV: Does Missing Spare Tire Deadline Vehicle?
By | Nov. 30, 2023
A Soldier asks if a HMMWV missing a spare tire makes that HMMWV not mission capable (NMC). Read on for Half-Mast’s response...

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Batteries: Solar Maintainers Required for Long-Term Equipment Storage
By | Oct. 23, 2023
AR 750-1 and DA PAM 750-1 were updated to clarify that approved solar maintainers are required for equipment in LUP, NCOMP and outdoor storage. Read on to learn more...

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JLTV AO/A1: DSDU Supply Turn-in Procedures
By | Aug. 15, 2023
If you have JLTVs, you’ll want to read supply advisory message (SAM) 23-001 for detailed turn-in guidance for the driver smart display unit (DSDU). See more...

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MATV: Check the Shock Bushings
By | Aug. 14, 2023
TACOM has noticed that shock bushings, also known as resilient mounts, aren’t being serviced during PMCS on MATVs. Here’s what operators and mechanics need to know...

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MRZR Polaris: Not Army Supported, So No RPSTL
By | Aug. 14, 2023
The MRZR Polaris utility vehicle is a unit-purchased item. That means there’s no RPSTL because the Army doesn’t maintain them, and spare parts and equipment must be a local purchase. Keep reading to learn more...

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HMMWV: New Group Email Address
By | Aug. 10, 2023
In case you didn’t know already, the HMMWV Team at TACOM has a new group email address. Get it here...

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Wheeled Vehicles: One Stop Shop for Tire & Wheel Assemblies
By | July 28, 2023
This article was updated 7/28/2023. Soldiers, before you go tire shopping, there’s something you need to keep in mind. Ordering a replacement tire is not authorized when a tire and wheel assembly NSN exists. Read on for more...

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Ground Vehicles: 6TAGM MILSPEC Batteries Can be Mixed
By | July 19, 2023
PulseTech® Products Corporation recently released the U.S. Army Battery Maintenance Management Program (BMMP) (May 23). The BMMP describes the three batteries that you could receive with NSN 6140-01-485-1472, and they’re...

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Ground Vehicles: Don’t Get Mixed Up with Batteries
By | July 18, 2023
While it’s recommended to use the same NSN batteries in vehicles requiring multiple batteries, it’s not recommended to mix old and new batteries. Keep reading to find out why...

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M1101, M1102 Trailers: Trailer Cover Kit
By | June 29, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 798 (Jun 19), p.61. Warfighters, get a replacement canvas cover in camo or tan for your M1101 or M1102 trailers. Get the NSNs here...

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Fuel Tanker Trailers: Approved Winter Tire for Europe and Alaska
By | June 8, 2023
If you’re in Europe or Alaska, you can get a winter tire for your fuel tanker trailer with NSN 2610-01-602-7361. Read on for more info...

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PLS: M6 Dump Body Tarp
By | May 24, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 766 (Sep 16), p.60. NSN 2540-01-449-5775, which is shown as Item 19 in Fig 1 of TM 9-3930-259-13&P (Jun 07), is for the M917 dump truck. It’s too wide and short for the M6 dump body...

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M1022-Series Dolly Set Mobilizer: Tire and Wheel Assembly NSN
By | May 10, 2023
Maintainers, the current TM for the M1022-series dolly set mobilizer doesn’t include the NSN for the tire and wheel assembly. Get it here...

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I Own This Campaign: Nominate a Deserving Warfighter
By | May 5, 2023
Taking ownership and pride in assigned vehicles and equipment is vital to ensuring personal, unit and fleet readiness. Without this personal investment and active involvement, Warfighters fail to ensure preventive and...

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M1270 MMPV Type II: New Annual Service Kit NSN
By | May 4, 2023
Maintainers, there’s a new annual service kit for the M1270 MMPV Type II that’s not in the current TM. Get the NSN here...

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Ground Vehicles: Want to Order in Bulk?
By | April 14, 2023
There are items you can order in bulk for your vehicles and equipment. Ordering in bulk can save units money and ensure high-usage items are available when needed. Here’s how to find what you can order in bulk...

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JLTV: Transmission Fluid NSNs
By | April 5, 2023
Only use TES-295 transmission fluid in your JLTV and don’t mix other fluids. We’ve got NSNs for the correct transmission fluid here...

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JLTV: Updated Battery Disconnect Procedure
By | April 4, 2023
TACOM MIM 23-010 updates the current battery disconnect/connect WP M06000 in TM 9-2320-452-23&P (Feb 19). Here’s what you need to know...

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Lead-Acid Batteries: WP Update for TM 9-6140-200-13
By | March 28, 2023
AR 750-1 was recently updated which caused a need for an update in work package (WP) 0020 of TM 9-6140-200-13, Operator and Field Maintenance for Automotive Lead-Acid Storage Batteries (May 11). Get the correct info here...

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Ground Vehicles: Contact LARs for Maintenance Assistance
By | March 15, 2023
If you need maintenance or logistics help for ground vehicles or equipment, just reach out to a logistics assistance representative or LAR. Get more info here...

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Ground Vehicles: Remove Battery Corrosion
By | March 9, 2023
When cleaning and removing corrosion from your vehicle’s lead-acid batteries, follow the guidance in WP 0027 of TM 9-6140-200-13 (May 11) and your vehicle’s operator and field maintenance TMs. Get more info...

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M915A5 Tractor Truck: Vent Louver Assembly NSN
By | Feb. 28, 2023
The M915A5 vent louver assembly comes with NSN 2540-01-576-7334. Make note of this until the TM is updated. Read on for full details…...

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FMTV: Tan-Colored Side Window Covers
By | Feb. 28, 2023
You can order OD green side window covers but if you want tan, you’ll need to contact AAR Mobility Systems. Keep reading to learn more...

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Corrosion: TACOM Introduces Basic Corrosion Course for Operators
By | Feb. 9, 2023
There’s a new corrosion course available for all Army personnel, including civilians and contractors who operate and maintain Army ground equipment. Read on...

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M1083A1P2 FMTV: New Cap Protects Hydraulic Fluid!
By | Feb. 7, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 779 (Oct 17) p. 13. To keep your EPHU from getting water contamination you’ll need a protective (breather) cap for your A1P2 FMTV. Read about it here...

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FMTV: Updated Flex Plate Bolt Torque
By | Feb. 2, 2023
TACOM has revised the flex plate bolts torque for FMTVs. Get the info you need here...

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Half-Mast Sends: Keep on Trucking
By | Jan. 26, 2023
The war in Ukraine is offering a lot of lessons. The question is: Are we learning them? An informative CNN article offers some insights on the importance of maintenance and logistics basics that are worth heeding. And we...

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M915A3 Tractor Truck: Get the Correct ECM Assembly
By | Jan. 26, 2023
Need an electronic control module (ECM) assembly (modulator assembly) for your M915A3 truck? Here’s how you get the right assembly...

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PS Magazine Year-In-Review: Top 10 Website Downloads
By | Jan. 13, 2023
The PS Magazine website features helpful documents, posters and charts that were downloaded over 80,000 times. You might be interested to learn what the most downloaded items were. Read on to find out...

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Tactical Vehicles Year-in-Review: New and Updated NSNs Captured in 2022
By | Jan. 12, 2023
Updated or new NSNs are a challenge to keep up with. Here’s a list that PS captured in 2022 for tactical vehicles and equipment. Get them here…...

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HEMTT A4-PLS A1-HET A1: Engine Cranks but Won't Start
By | Jan. 10, 2023
There’s a possible issue with the C15 and C18 engine on certain vehicles cranking but not starting due to a damaged engine cluster gear. Here’s what you need to know…...

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FMTV and HIMARS: TACOM Safety Message for Cab Raise Procedures
By | Dec. 28, 2022
According to TACOM GSAM 23-004, the FMTV A1, FMTV A1P2 and HIMARS maintenance and operator TMs will be updated with new cab raise procedure and crush hazard WARNINGS. You’ll need to read the message, but first read this...

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TPU: Tiedown Kits and Instructions for FMTVs
By | Dec. 20, 2022
The tiedown kit listed as Fig 13 in TM 10‐4930‐236‐13P (Dec 12) and as Item 21 in the components of end item (COEI) list was used for the old M939 trucks, not FMTVs. Read on for more info…...

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FMTV: Program ECM for New Engines
By | Dec. 13, 2022
ECMs installed on new FMTV A1 and A2 truck engines are blank and require programming at the unit level, and the procedures are in TACOM MIM 23-004. Get the scoop here…...

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FMTV: Don't Drill Drain Holes in Headlight Rings
By | Dec. 12, 2022
This article initially appeared in PS 793, p. 12 (Dec 18). It’s still acceptable to drill a hole in HMMWV headlight retaining rings; just don’t do it for FMTVs. Here’s the info…...

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JLTV: Updated PMCS Intervals for Brake Fluid Replacement
By | Dec. 8, 2022
You’ll need to replace your JLTV’s brake fluid if it’s aged two (2) years or more because PMCS brake fluid replacement intervals have been updated. Get the info here…...

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JLTV: Flat Towing Procedures
By | Nov. 28, 2022
According to GSAM 22-016, several JLTV towing incidents warrant an update to WP 0080 that adjusts the suspension height of the recovery vehicle. Here’s what you need to know…...

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MFS TRM M107A1: Draining and Flushing Durasoil®
By | Nov. 23, 2022
Some fuel samples taken from M107A1 modular fuel system (MFS) tank rack modules (TRMs) have shown traces of residual testing fluid (Durasoil®) and immediate corrective action is required. Here’s the scoop…...

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Safety: Are You and Your Vehicles Ready for Winter?
By | Nov. 22, 2022
This article initially appeared in PS 792 (Nov 18), p. 12. Maintenance leaders, winter is here and requires more preparation and maintenance for vehicles. But that’s not all, read on…...

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PMCS: Good PM Takes More Than Just the TM
By | Nov. 22, 2022
This article initially appeared in PS 774 (May 17), p. 1. Use your eyes, ears, nose and hands to help you uncover problems that could deadline your vehicle. Read on for more info…...

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Cold Weather: Some Must-Read PS Articles to Prepare, Plan & Train
By | Nov. 15, 2022
Updated 15 Nov 2022: Warfighters, it’s time to gear up and prepare for the many challenges of cold weather, not to mention the hazards of winter driving. Read on info and links to cold weather articles...

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JLTV: Visit UTAP for Additional Vehicle Training Info
By | Nov. 14, 2022
If you’re looking for additional training material, lesson plans, schematics and more for the JLTV, just visit UTAP. Read about it here…...

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PS Magazine: New How-To Video Section Optimizes Website Experience
By | Nov. 4, 2022
PS introduces the new PS How-To Videos section which has several short tutorials (two minutes or less) designed to optimize your experience using this website. Get more info here…...

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M967A2/M969A3 Fuel Tankers: New NSN for Landing Leg Crank Handle Retaining Pin
By | Nov. 4, 2022
If you have an M967A2 or M969A3 fuel tanker, you’ll want to make a note that there’s a new NSN for the landing leg crank handle retaining pin. Get the NSN here…...

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M-ATV FOV: New Inspections Prevent Damaged NATO Cables
By | Oct. 25, 2022
According to TACOM MA message 23-001, you need to inspect your M-ATV’s hood attachments and NATO cables. There’s an inspection document with details for inspecting hood brackets, hard stops and quick edge you must use until...

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M900-Series Fuel Tankers: Looking for an Engine Access Door?
By | Oct. 14, 2022
When it comes to M900-series fuel tankers, be careful ordering the Lombardini engine access door. Why? Because there are two (2) NSNs which are based upon the specific fuel tanker model. That’s not all, so get the rest of the...

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FMTV: Updated Procedures for CTIS Semiannual Check
By | Oct. 4, 2022
There’s an updated semiannual check for the CTIS wheel valve assembly that’s not in the IETM yet. Get the procedures here…...

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MRAP, M-ATV: Add Reflective Tape for Safety’s Sake
By | Sept. 20, 2022
MRAP and M-ATV door handles and escape latches are hard to see, so illuminate them by adding strips of reflective tape. Here’s how to get the tape and where to apply it…...

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Corrosion: Keep Corrosion at Bay
By | Sept. 14, 2022
To help prevent corrosion, keep plenty of desiccant on hand. Get the NSN here…...

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Fuel Tankers: Replacing Split-Ring Rims
By | Sept. 9, 2022
If your unit has an M967A1, M967A1P1, M969A1, M969A1P1, M969A2 or M969A2P1 fuel tanker, the split-ring rims and tires are obsolete. When no longer serviceable, split-ring rims and their tires must be converted to the...

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All Fleets: Promote Safety by Avoiding the “Dirty Dozen”
By | Sept. 9, 2022
The nemesis to Army safety is a “dirty dozen” of human-centered factors. Keep reading to learn what these factors are and ways to avoid them...

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M1089A1P2 FMTV: UTAP Training Guides Available
By | Sept. 7, 2022
If you need maintenance training for your FMTV wrecker, UTAP has added the Operator/Maintainer Student Guide (Mar 19) and the Operator/Maintainer Instructor Guide (Mar 19). Here's the scoop...

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HEMTT: Parking Brake Problems? Check Exhaust Port
By | Sept. 7, 2022
Parking brake problems with the HEMTT could potentially be caused by a clogged exhaust port at the end of the parking brake valve exhaust hose which will cause the parking brake to fail. Read about it here...

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Ground Vehicles: Lead-Acid Battery Storage
By | Sept. 1, 2022
Flooded cell and absorbed glass material (AGM) batteries can be stored and charged in the same container as long as you follow the guidelines in TM 9-6140-200-13 (May 11). We’ve got the details here…...

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M1120A2 HEMTT: NSN for Hook Arm Cylinder Assembly
By | Aug. 25, 2022
The hook arm cylinder assembly for M1120A2s was replaced by the M1120A4’s. To get the newer assembly, use NSN 3040-01-642-5340...

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Fuel Tankers: Correct NSNs for Rear Axle Parts
By | Aug. 11, 2022
The TM lists incorrect NSNs for some rear axle parts for the M967A1P1, M969A1P1 and M969A2P1 fuel tankers. Get the correct NSNs here...

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Tactical Vehicles: Shocking Truth behind Defective Batteries
By | Aug. 3, 2022
Warfighters, new batteries are often returned to the Army supply system as unserviceable after only a few days or weeks. Did you know that very few of these new batteries prove to be defective at all? As shocking as that...

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HMMWV: Lug Nut and Stud Basics
By | Aug. 3, 2022
Soldiers, IETM 9-2320-387-13&P (Mar 21) tells you to hand tighten lugs nuts before you reach for that impact wrench when you’re installing a wheel onto the geared hub of your HMMWV. That’s because if you cannot easily hand...

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M1101, M1102 Trailer: NSN for Shock Absorber
By | July 29, 2022
Dear Half-Mast, I’m trying to replace a shock absorber on an M1101 trailer. However, FED LOG shows the shock absorber, NSN 2510-01-190-3862, as AAC V. That means it’s a terminal item. Can my unit still order them or is there...

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M200A1 Trailer: Testing Handbrakes
By | July 27, 2022
Maintainers, TACOM is aware that procedures for testing the handbrakes on the M200A1 trailer aren’t in TM 9-2320-205-13&P (Sep 14). Until the TM is updated, use MIL DTL-45150N (Jun 15). Get the testing steps here...

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Tactical Vehicles: Five Steps to Install Batteries Right
By | July 26, 2022
Corrosion kills tactical vehicle batteries. The good news is that five (5) simple steps during battery installation can beat corrosion and extend battery life. Get the steps here...

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PS Magazine: An Authoritative Readiness Resource
By | July 20, 2022
Sometimes we get questions about the authority of PS Magazine. Here's the scoop on that...

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FMTV: Replacement NSN for Air Dryer
By | July 14, 2022
Mechanics, the FMTV’s air dryer that’s shown as NSN 2530-01-524-7892 (PN N-50011-H) in IETM 9-2320-333-23&P (Jun 19) has been replaced.. Keep reading to get the new NSN and more...

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FMTV: Tire and Wheel Assembly Changes Hands
By | June 30, 2022
Maintainers, historically the FMTV LTAS tire and wheel assembly, NSN 2530-01-571-5857, was managed by DLA as a consumable item. However, beginning in August 2022, this item will be transferred to TACOM for management as a...

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M915A5 Tractor Truck: NSN for Air Tank Valve
By | June 29, 2022
Operators, there’s no NSN listed for the air tank valve shown as Item 2 in Fig 160 of TM 9-2320-426-13&P (Aug 14) for your M915A5 tractor truck. Here it is...

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FMTV: NSN for Towbar
By | June 29, 2022
Operators, it never hurts to have a towbar handy because you never know when you might need it. You can’t use just any towbar you find in the motor pool. Get the NSN here...

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HEMTT A4: Right Way to Stencil Periodic Load Tests
By | June 28, 2022
Maintenance leaders, there’s been some confusion in units that have HEMTT A4s about how to correctly stencil the results of periodic load tests. That’s because the TM and TB give differing guidance. What you need to know...

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Ground Vehicles: Don’t Use Tire Shine Products
By | June 24, 2022
Operators, we warned you about using tire shine products in our story on Page 15 of PS 791 (Oct 18). Sure, you want your ride to sparkle; however, using tire shine products to get that sparkle isn’t authorized. That’s because...

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Trailers: Inspect the Coupling Systems in Inventory
By | June 15, 2022
Warfighters, according to Ground Safety Action Message (GSAM) 22-012, you’ll need to inspect the coupling systems on your trailers. In September 2019, a batch of coupler drawbar rings, NSN 2540-00-999-5584, also known as...

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M172A1, M870 and M870A1 Semitrailers: Replacing Split-Ring Rims
By | June 15, 2022
Mechanics, if you haven’t heard, there’s a new single-piece tire and wheel assembly to replace the old split-ring rim for the M172A1, M870 and M870A1 semitrailers. Here's what you need to know...

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Ground Vehicles: Drive Like Your Life Depends on It!
By | June 10, 2022
Warfighters, MSG Half-Mast requests you huddle up with your fellow Soldiers and remind them that driving tactical vehicles is serious business. Just how serious is it? Find out here...

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Ground Vehicles: Don’t go off the Rails with Secondary Cargo Loads
By | June 6, 2022
On Pages 11-15 of PS 758 (Jan 16), we told you that when equipment, palletized cargo or small vehicles are loaded onto or into the cargo areas of trucks or trailers transported by rail, it’s called a secondary cargo load. Get...

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M871 Semitrailer: Drill Drain Holes in Storage Boxes
By | May 24, 2022
Dear Editor, we support a transportation unit with 120 semitrailers. The semitrailers carry a mounted storage box that holds all the BII tools, chains and binding equipment. The storage box costs about $680 and the stored...

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Safety: Off-Duty Awareness Sustains the Force
By | May 3, 2022
Mission success always includes safety. When the mission is over, safety doesn’t stop. Read on to learn about resources to make off-duty safety a priority...

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M1102 Trailer: Marine Corps LTT Brake Drums Different
By | April 21, 2022
Marines, the brake drums on your light tactical trailer (LTT) aren’t the same as the ones used by the Army. That’s because of the screw-on style of the grease cap that the Marine Corps opted to use on their M1102s. Get what...

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M149-Series Water Trailers: Identify Model & Inspect for Corrosion
By | April 6, 2022
Maintenance leaders, according to TACOM Ground Safety Action (GSA) message 22-009, you’ll need to identify your M149-series water trailers and inspect them for frame corrosion. And there's a deadline to do it! Get the scoop...

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Corrosion: Bust Rust with TACOM CCI Checklists
By | March 31, 2022
Maintenance leaders, did you know the TACOM Corrosion website has corrosion control inspection (CCI) checklists? It sure does. Here's what you need to know...

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MK III VMMD Husky: Ink Spray Hoses
By | March 31, 2022
Operators, make sure the MK III VMMD Husky’s ink spray hoses are properly routed, attached and tucked away whenever the vehicle’s mine detector heads are in the elevated position. Here's why...

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M1272 Buffalo: TM Missing Tire Chain Instructions
By | March 25, 2022
Operators, TM 9-2355-352-10 (Jun 20) for the Buffalo, doesn’t have installation and removal instructions for tire chains. Read on to get info...

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RCV Buffalo A2: Follow These Seven PM and Safety Pointers
By | March 24, 2022
Crewman, keep the following preventive maintenance (PM) pointers in mind. They’ll keep your RCV Buffalo A2 mission-ready...

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RCV Buffalo A2: When Water is Your Enemy
By | March 24, 2022
Water collects in the hull of the Buffalo A2 like a rain barrel on the side of a barn. Water drips off wet boots and uniforms, trickles in from the top of the vehicle, and more. Read on to learn ways to prevent water damage...

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M149A2 Water Trailer: Need a Data Plate?
By | March 9, 2022
Maintenance leaders, do you need to order either a water tank data plate or trailer data plate for your M149A2 water trailer? Here’s some help...

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M915A3 Tractor Truck: New NSN for Collision Warning ECU
By | March 7, 2022
Maintainers, if your unit has M915A3 tractor trucks, be aware that the NSN for the collision warning ECU was replaced. Read about it here...

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Set Up a Virtual TDY with PS Magazine
By | March 3, 2022
PS Magazine was created in 1951 to help Soldiers with maintenance and logistics issues. We’re still here to help after 70 years and we’d like to invite combat, combat support and combat service support units across the Army...

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FMTV: New PTO Transmission
By | March 3, 2022
Mechanics, there are two (2) different configurations of power takeoff (PTO) transmissions for FMTVs; an old style PTO transmission and a new style PTO transmission. Here's what you need to know...

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I Sustain This Recognition Program: Nominate a Deserving Civilian Sustainer
By | March 2, 2022
Maintaining equipment to meet combat readiness requirements and stay in the fight, even under the most arduous of circumstances, often relies on the support of civilian sustainers and maintainers. Here's how you can recognize...

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FMTV: Watch for Pests in Exhaust Ports
By | March 2, 2022
Dear Editor, while conducting maintenance on our FMTVs, we got readings that led us to believe an anti-lock braking system (ABS) valve was bad on one of our FMTV’s wheels. Here's what we learned...

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AOAP: Temporary Gap in Service and Workarounds
By | March 1, 2022
Starting on Feb 20, 2022, the contract that supports the Army Oil Analysis Program (AOAP) will experience a gap in service. Read on to learn more about its impact...

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Tactical Vehicles: Don’t Make Winter Driving a Chilling Experience
By | Feb. 28, 2022
Operators, winter driving presents unique challenges. The bottom line is that you need to be prepared for these challenges. Here's what you need to know...

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Corrosion: New Documents Published
By | Feb. 25, 2022
Corrosion is an ongoing battle. To ensure this menace never wins the day, two new corrosion policy and procedures publications are available...

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Ground Vehicles: Arctic Oil Replacement
By | Feb. 9, 2022
A new multi-functional, heavy-duty, arctic engine oil called synthetic multi-purpose lubricant (OE/HDO-SMPL-I) is now replacing the old OEA-30...

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M1000 HET Semitrailer: Leave APU Valve Open
By | Feb. 4, 2022
This article initially appeared in PS 799 (Jun 19). Operators, there’s a valve on the HET Semitrailer’s APU hydraulic reservoir that must remain open when operating the APU. Here's the info you'll need...

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HMMWV: Winter Tires
By | Jan. 26, 2022
Warfighters, you may have heard the Army is testing a new winter tire for HMMWVs: the KO2. KO2 winter tires have a three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) rating, which means they’re considered severe snow service-rated. Read...

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MRAP: Learn Your Rollover Lesson
By | Jan. 21, 2022
This article initially appeared in PS 771 (Feb 17), p. 11. Operators, it’s always better to avoid a rollover than to experience one. Remember these lessons learned before you start the day’s mission. Get the lessons here...

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Tactical Vehicles: 2021 Year-in-Review
By | Jan. 21, 2022
Maintenance leaders, NSNs were the most frequent topics covered in 2021 for tactical vehicles and trailers. Corrosion prevention and the roll-out of Non-Combat Operations Maintenance Plan (NCOMP) were also hot topics this...

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JLTV: Update MSD for Best Performance
By | Jan. 19, 2022
Warfighters, when it comes to the maintenance support device (MSD) for your JLTV, you’ll want to make sure it has the latest software and firmware versions. Here's the scoop...

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P-D-680/CID A-A-59601 Cleaning Solvent Is a NO-GO!
By | Jan. 5, 2022
P-D-680, also known as CID A-A-59601, contains harmful chemicals that adversely affect the environment. Bottom line: P-D-680 is NOT the same as MIL-PRF-680! This article applies to tactical vehicles and small arms, to read on...

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M915A5 Tractor: New NSNs for Channel Lifts
By | Dec. 27, 2021
There’s a replacement for the M915A5 tractor’s channel lift shown as Item 20 in Fig 210 of TM 9-2320-426-13&P (Aug 14). Read on for the new NSNs...

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M916A3 Tractor Truck: Ignition Keys
By | Dec. 8, 2021
Operators, do you need ignition switch keys for your M916A3, but can’t find them in the TM? That's because Item 16 in Fig 69 of TM 9-2320-302-24P (Feb 06) doesn’t show the ignition switch keys. Here's how you get them...

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Corrosion: Cleaning is Key to Prevention
By | Dec. 6, 2021
Dear Editor, I’m an allied trades/small engine supervisor at the 406th AFSB. We’re constantly informing Soldiers of the importance of keeping vehicles and equipment clean. Get more info here...

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M915A3 Tractor Truck, M872A4 Semitrailer: Update for Winter Tires
By | Nov. 16, 2021
Warfighters, according to TACOM Maintenance Action Message (MAM) 21-053, you’ll need to check your M915A3 tractor trucks and M872A4 semitrailers to ensure that Michelin® and Goodyear® tires aren’t both mounted on the same...

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M978A2/A4 HEMTT: Deadman Valve Leaking?
By | Nov. 3, 2021
Operators, do you have an issue with the deadman valve leaking on your M978A4 or M978A2 HEMTT fuel tankers? It’s also commonly called the hand-actuated control valve (HAV). You can easily fix the leaking with some sealing...

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Corrosion: New TM 43-0139 Is Hot off the Press
By | Nov. 2, 2021
Maintenance leaders, quality inspectors and paint technicians, get the revised TM 43-0139, Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) Application and Quality Assurance on Army Ground Equipment (Oct 21). Here's some info about...

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M149 Water Trailer: Don’t Learn Safety by Accident!
By | Oct. 28, 2021
During a training exercise in March 2021, a Soldier suffered a serious foot injury while disconnecting a full M149 water trailer from the prime mover. Here's how and why...

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M149A2 Water Trailer: TM Updates for Brake Assemblies & Water Tank
By | Oct. 26, 2021
If you have an M149A2 water trailer, there are some issues when it comes to the brake configuration in TM 9-2330-267-13&P (Dec 15). Read on for TM updates...

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M1000 HET Semitrailer: 5-Year Service Kit
By | Oct. 21, 2021
Maintenance leaders, don’t use the 5-Year Supplemental Booklet anymore for your 5-year services on your M1000 semitrailers. That booklet was replaced by WP 0036.1 in TM 9-2330-381-13 (Apr 15, w/Ch1), and also be sure to use...

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Maintenance Mgmt: NSNs for Motor Pool Safety Items
By | Oct. 20, 2021
Keep these NSNs handy for safety items used in the motor pool...

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Batteries: Free Hawker® Battery Resources
By | Sept. 27, 2021
Warfighters, when it’s time to roll out, the last thing you want to hear when you try to start your vehicle is crickets. Hawker® offers lots of no-cost—yes free—valuable resources that can help you get the full life out of...

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Maintenance Mgmt: Ground Guiding is Serious Business
By | Sept. 20, 2021
Army equipment is often large and awkward to move. Safely maneuvering large equipment, especially in tight spaces, requires properly trained and positioned ground guides. Learn more here...

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Maintenance Mgmt: Leaders Teach & Train PMCS
By | Sept. 20, 2021
Listen up! The next time a vehicle goes into the shop with an apparent low tire psi, ask the operator if they have a tire gauge. Then ask them how to check the tire’s psi. You might be surprised to find out what they don't...

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Maintenance Mgmt: The Cold Reality about PMCS
By | Sept. 20, 2021
Army equipment gets used in some of the worst conditions imaginable. It’s common sense that equipment works “best” when operated daily, weekly and on a monthly basis...

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Fuel Tankers: Trailer Service Info
By | Sept. 16, 2021
Maintainers, looking for a handy guide for services and parts for your fuel tankers? We’ve got you covered. Download them from here...

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PLS: TMs Missing Unarmored Weapon Station Kit
By | Sept. 14, 2021
Operators, the latest versions of the PLS TMs don’t cover the procedures for installation, removal, maintenance or troubleshooting of the unarmored weapon station kit, NSN 2510-01-675-0743, PN 57K6838. Get them here...

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PQAS-E: Time to Swap the Laptop Hard Drive
By | Aug. 27, 2021
Do you own or maintain a Petroleum Quality Analysis System-Enhanced (PQAS-E)? If so, it’s time to swap the B300 Laptop W10 Internal HD (hard drive). We've got the info here...

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Fuel Tankers: Need an Alternator or Cooling Fan Belt?
By | Aug. 27, 2021
Operators, be careful while ordering that alternator belt for your tanker trailer. Older model tanker trailers use a different belt than the newer models. That’s because they have different-sized alternator pulleys. Read more...

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Ground Vehicles: QR Codes for PMCS Not TACOM-Endorsed
By | Aug. 26, 2021
Dear MSG Half-Mast, I work on a Command Maintenance Evaluation/Maintenance Assistance Instruction (COMET/MAIT) team and keep seeing quick response (QR) codes used to access the PMCS tables of a vehicle’s TMs. Can they be...

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M915A5 Tractor Truck: Get Right NSN for Fuel Line
By | Aug. 25, 2021
Maintainers, here’s a heads up if you have an M915A5 tractor truck! The NSN for the fuel line is wrong in the IETM. Here's the right one...

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HEMTT: Dressed Cab Assembly or Push Kit?
By | Aug. 24, 2021
Dear Half-Mast, my unit has an M977A4 HEMTT with a damaged cab, and we need a dressed cab assembly. Can you help? Yes. Here's the scoop...

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M915A5 Tractor Truck: Right NSN for Taillight
By | Aug. 17, 2021
Operators, be careful ordering a taillight for your M915A5 tractor. Item 1 of Fig 103 in TM 9-2320-426-13&P (IETM EM 0308, Aug 14) shows it as stoplight vehicular, NSN 6220-01-550-1339. That’s wrong. We've got the right info...

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M1082, M1095 Trailers: NCOMP is the New Plan
By | Aug. 10, 2021
Maintainers, there’s a new plan for M1082 2-1/2 ton and M1095 5-ton trailers that aren’t used very much. The Optimized Maintenance Non-Combat Operations Maintenance Plan (NCOMP) will help reduce the service workload for these...

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Tactical Vehicles: Don’t Use Biodiesel Blends!
By | Aug. 10, 2021
Warfighters, have you wondered if you can use biodiesel blends in your tactical vehicles? Well, wonder no more because the answer is no. Read on for more info...

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Corrosion: Use Cavity Wax to Stop It Dead in its Tracks
By | July 30, 2021
If you’re a spray paint technician assigned to a Logistics Readiness Center (LRC) or depot, have you heard of cavity wax? It’s a wax specifically designed for corrosion protection. Here's what you need to know...

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M1101, M1102 Trailer: Better Test the Handbrakes
By | July 22, 2021
If you have an M1101 or M1102 trailer, don’t forget to test the two (2) handbrake levers (curbside/roadside). The handbrakes engage the brake pads. Forgetting means you run the risk of the trailer rolling and that’s not good!...

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PS Shout-Out to Maintenance Activity Vilseck
By | July 20, 2021
MSG Half-Mast gives a shout-out to Maintenance Activity Vilseck! We'll tell you why here...

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PS Magazine: A Trusted Source for Readiness Information
By | July 20, 2021
For 70 years, Soldiers—as well as other service personnel—have relied on PS Magazine to get the late-breaking, correct information they need to keep their fleets combat ready. Still, a question continues to pop up in motor...

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Maintaining it Means Using It
By | July 1, 2021
It’s common sense that equipment works “best” when operated daily, weekly and on a monthly basis, right? The cold reality is common sense flies out the window when a vehicle is allowed to sit idle for a long time...

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M915A5 Tractor Truck: Use 12V Motor Blower Assembly
By | June 30, 2021
Operators, you’ll want to be careful ordering a motor blower assembly for your tractor. That’s because Item 18 in Fig 275 of TM 9-2320-426-13&P (IETM EM 0308, Aug 14) shows a 24V motor blower assembly as NSN 6105-01-576-7897,...

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Safety: Stay Alert On and Off Duty
By | June 23, 2021
Safety is an important consideration whether you’re on or off duty...

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Yellow Safety Paint
By | June 15, 2021
This article initially appeared in PS 766 (Sep 16), p. 61. Get a 5-gal container of yellow safety paint with NSN 8010-01-019-1776. This water-based latex is used to paint guide marks and warning lines inside your motor pool...

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Tactical Vehicles: Got Battery Questions?
By | June 10, 2021
If you’ve got battery questions about any of your wheeled vehicles, no worries! The Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) has the answers. Contact the GVSC battery hotline at DSN 786-8000 or (586) 282-8000. Read on for more...

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Corrosion: Protect Hoses from Getting Hosed by the Sun
By | May 28, 2021
Don’t think your vehicle’s air or hydraulic hoses can fall victim to corrosion? Better think again! It’s called weathering and that spells corrosion. Read all about it here...

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M915 FOV: Operator Tips for When Hot Weather Hits
By | May 21, 2021
This article initially appeared in PS 751 (Jun 15), p. 38-40. Knowing how to care for your M915 FOV trucks in extreme heat is part of maintaining them. Keep reading to find out how...

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Tactical Vehicles: Cavity Wax Curbs Corrosion
By | April 12, 2021
Soldiers, there’s a weapon to combat corrosion in all of those difficult-to-reach cavities on your tactical vehicles. Most of the cavities aren’t painted, which means that dirt and gunk just hide in there, corroding frames...

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Tactical Wheeled-Vehicles: Safe Slave Starting
By | March 16, 2021
This article initially appeared in PS 720 (Nov 12), p. 11-12. Combining weak batteries with freezing temperatures won’t exactly give your vehicle the best environment for starting. But with the right help, you can get it...

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Don’t Spin Our Wheels!
By | Feb. 23, 2021
This article initially appeared in PS 759 (May 16), p. 1. PS Magazine gets lots of maintenance and supply questions each month. Sometimes we can send out an immediate answer. Other times, those answers take a couple days to a...

M-Gators: Before You Order Parts
By | Feb. 4, 2021
This article initially appeared in PS 729 (Aug 13), p. 17. Need to order some m-gator parts? If your unit has cash or a government credit card, you can order parts from any John Deere dealer in the world...

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Maintenance Training: Find Every Chance to Teach
By | Jan. 22, 2021
Listen up! The next time a vehicle comes into the shop with an apparent low tire psi, ask the operator if they have a tire gauge. Then ask them how to check the tire’s psi. You might be surprised to find out what they don't...

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Wheeled Vehicles: Equipment Diagrams Available in UTAP
By | Jan. 15, 2021
Maintainers, you’ve wanted an easier way to find and use equipment diagrams, other than selecting each image on the Maintenance Support Device (MSD) screen. Here's the scoop...

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PS Magazine: Help Us Help You
By | Dec. 23, 2020
Each day, emails from Soldiers and DoD civilians all over the world come into PS Magazine seeking answers to challenges they're facing while maintaining their vehicles and equipment. And each day, Half-Mast or a member of his...

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Battery Box Coating Compound
By | Dec. 9, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 745 (May 17), p. 61. If the interior coating on your vehicle’s battery box is wearing out, you’ll need to recoat it. Use a wire brush to scrape off rust and old paint. Then, after...

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Windshield Washer Fluid
By | Dec. 9, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 615 (Feb 04), p. 60. To make windshield washer fluid, use NSN 6850-00-926-2275 to get a case of twelve 16-oz bottles of concentrated windshield cleaning compound...

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UTAP: You’re Just a Click Away!
By | Nov. 17, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 798 (May 19), p. 20-21. TACOM’s Unit Training Assistance Program, UTAP, provides approved training materials for a variety of TACOM-managed equipment...

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MRAP M-ATV: PM for Hard Steering
By | Oct. 28, 2020
Operators, it’s hard to turn the M-ATV’s steering wheel, especially when the vehicle has been sitting for a while. That’s because wet sand and mud corrode the steering wheel shaft where it mounts into the cab’s floor. Here’s...

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MK III VMMD HUSKY: Battery Drain a Real Pain
By | Oct. 28, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 769 (Dec 16), p. 14. Dead batteries and the Husky seem to go hand-in-hand, especially when your vehicle sits for long periods in cold weather. To keep batteries charged,...

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FMTV: Which Starter Should I Use?
By | Oct. 27, 2020
Dear Half-Mast, I’ve had a couple units requisition starters for the A1-series FMTV, and the starter is different than the one in the vehicle. Can you explain why this is? I sure can! Read on to find out why...

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M1231 MK II/III VMMD Husky: INK TANK ALERT!
By | Oct. 22, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 769 (Dec 16), p. 13. Operators, cold weather can spell D-O-O-M for the ink tank on the left side of your Husky’s cab. The water/ink solution inside the tank will freeze when temperatures...

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M1272 Buffalo: The Pain of Battery Drain
By | Oct. 7, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 775 (Jun 17), p. 15. It’s no secret that electronics inside the M1272 Buffalo have a bad habit of running the vehicle’s batteries dry. And those batteries can lose their charge in just a...

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M915A5 Truck: VORAD Sensor NSNs
By | July 1, 2020
You can no longer get the M915A5 tractor truck’s vehicle on-board radar (VORAD) sensor and bracket, NSN 5340-01-576-5334, as a single item. Instead, you’ll need to order the sensor and bracket separately...

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Wheeled Vehicles: HTV Computer-Based Training Available
By | June 23, 2020
Soldiers, the Product Manager Heavy Tactical Vehicles (PM HTV) Distance Learning Center provides computer-based sustainment training for many systems, including HEMTT A4, M1120A4 load handling system (LHS), M983A4 light...

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CIPs: Telling Friend from Foe Requires Proper Care
By | May 29, 2020
Combat is dangerous enough without having to worry about being shot at by someone on your own side! That’s where combat identification panels (CIPs) come in. CIPs are 24 x 30-in panels that help protect you from friendly...

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Wheeled Vehicles: Dry Lead-Acid Batteries No Longer Supported in CONUS
By | March 26, 2020
The following dry lead-acid batteries for the Army’s wheeled-vehicle fleet are now obsolete: ● 6TMF, NSN 6140-01-469-9184; ● 2HN dry, NSN 6140-00-057-2553; ● 4HN dry, NSN 6140-00-059-3528. Under the DLA Land and Maritime...

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Tactical Computers: Take Cover from Water Damage
By | Jan. 30, 2020
Water has many uses, but one thing you don’t want to get water on is computer equipment. Unfortunately, that’s happening because some Soldiers are leaving their tactical computer systems exposed when power-washing their...

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M153 CROWS II: Lock It Down Before Moving Out
By | Dec. 13, 2019
Crewmen, it’s critical that you keep your common remotely operated weapons station (CROWS) II locked whenever your vehicle is on the move. If you don’t, the main frame assembly (MFA) on the CROWS can end up with serious...

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BDAR Kit: Get One Today!
By | Nov. 26, 2019
The TRADOC Project Office (TPO) for Battlefield Recovery/BDAR has developed a new and improved battle damage and repair kit for all ground combat and tactical systems. The improved kit, NSN 2590-01-659-5620, has all the...