The A20 personnel heater doesn’t need scheduled maintenance to work properly. But regularly inspecting the heater will improve its life and performance. Here’s how to make sure the A20 heater does its job of keeping Soldiers warm and comfortable when the temperature drops:
Regular Service and Inspection
Crewmen, before cold temps arrive:
- Clear the fuel lines of fuel and inspect the lines for cuts, leaks or other damage that may lead to fire or other damage. Failure to do so could result in injury or death.
- Turn the heater on and let it run on high for about one (1) hour. If the heater works the way it’s supposed to, you don’t need to do anything else. If it doesn’t work properly, tell your mechanic.
Mechanics, inspect all new A20 heaters as soon as possible after they’re received. Turn off both the vehicle engine and the heater during the initial inspection. You’ll need your general automotive tool kit to complete the inspection.
Inspect for Fuel Leaks
- Check the vehicle fuel filter, fuel pump, fuel inlet hose and all fittings for leaks.
- Check the heater mounting area for signs of fuel pooled in the area.
- Check the personnel heater itself for signs of fuel leaks:
i. Check the body of the heater for signs of leaks or stains from prior leaking.
ii. Remove the heater top housing cover using the guidance in TM 9-2540-207-14&P (Jul 07). Remove the four (4) screws and washers from the top cover and gently remove the heater cover from the heater body.
4. Inspect the heater’s components for leaks:
i. Check the fuel injector, fuel pressure sensor and fuel pump connections for leaking fuel.
ii. Check all flexible hoses, fittings and connections for leaking fuel.
5. Start the heater. Refer to vehicle technical manual.
6. Re-inspect all heater components for fuel leaks:
i. Check the fuel injector, fuel pressure sensor and fuel pump connections for leaking fuel.
ii. If you find fuel leaks in steps one (1) and two (2), repair them at the field level. If fuel leaks are found in steps four (4) through six (6), remove the heater and turn it in to the appropriate level of maintenance for repair.
7. Observe the heater for excessive smoke for about 20 minutes. Look for smoke around and under the heater. Also, look for smoke in the heated air stream. If you see excessive smoke, shut down the heater, and check for airflow obstructions.
8. Reinstall the heater top housing cover using the guidance in TM 9-2540-207-14&P (Jul 07). Reinstall the four (4) screws and washers for the top cover and gently place the heater cover on the heater body.
Personnel Heater Safety Tips
1. Be on the lookout for unusual smells, smoke, flames or fuel leaks while operating your vehicles. If something doesn’t seem right, tell your mechanic.
2. Stay with your vehicle while the heater is running in case a fire does break out.
3. Regularly rehearse fire and evacuation drills until they become second nature.
Contact your TACOM Logistics Assistance Representative (LAR) or State Surface Maintenance Manager if you need help.