Chapter 6. MARINE AND TERMINAL TRANSPORTABILITY GUIDANCE

TM 55-2350-272-14

CHAPTER 6

MARINE AND TERMINAL TRANSPORTABILITY GUIDANCE

Section I. GENERAL

6-1. Scope

This chapter provides transportability guidance for marine and terminal movement of the M973. It covers significant

technical and physical characteristics, as well as safety precautions; prescribes materials; and provides guidance re-

quired to prepare, lift, tie down, and discharge this vehicle.

6-2. Safety

In addition to the safety precautions in chapter 3, the following should be noted:

a. The activity offering the vehicle for transport will notify the carrier if ammunition (or explosives) is to be trans-

ported with the vehicle. Compliance with AR 55-228, paragraph 2-7, is mandatory.

b. Ammunition and vehicles will be handled and stowed in accordance with provisions contained in Code of Federal

Regulations (CFR) 49 or reissues thereof.

c. Fire extinguishers must be available during all loading and discharge operations.

d. Vessel equipment and gear should be inspected before being used.

e. Personnel should be cautioned not to walk under items being lifted.

f. Lifting eyes, shackles, and slings should be inspected to insure that they are complete and not dam- aged.

g. All lifts should have at least two tag lines attached to control the swing of the lift while suspended.

h. Check to insure that lifting eyes are screwed all the way in (shoulder flush with the roof of vehicle) and cannot be

loosened by hand.

WARNING

The articulated steering unit must be locked with the steering ram locks

before attempting to lift the M973.

6-3. Marine Shipment

The M973 can be transported by a variety of inland waterway cargo vessels, by lighters, and by most sea-going cargo

vessels.

NOTE

The methods described in this chapter for lifting and securing are sug-

gested procedures. Other methods of handling and stowage may be

used provided that they will insure safe delivery without damage.

Section II. LOADING AND SECURING

6-4. General Rules

a. Stowage. Below-deck stowage should be provided whenever possible. In general, good stowage means placing

the carriers as close together as practical, with minimum space between the outer item and the sweatboards (about 4 to 6

inches). The M973 is secured by adequate blocking and lashing. Securing includes blocking of tracks on all four sides

so that the M973 cannot move in any direction; bracing of individual blocks to bulkheads, stanchions, and other vehicle

blocks; and lashing of the M973 with wire rope, chain, or patented lashings. Breakable parts should be protected; spare

parts should be stowed in or near the parent item; brakes should be set; and the transmission control should be placed in

neutral.

b. Lifting. Correct lifting points on the carriers are the lifting eyes located at the upper four corners of each car (total

of eight). A typical lifting diagram is shown in figure 6-1.

c. Loading. The M973 will be loaded on seagoing cargo vessels in its minimum configuration as de- scribed in

paragraph 2-4. It may be loaded under its own power or by cranes of adequate capacity aboard landing craft, beach dis-

charge lighters, heavy and medium amphibious lighters, and landing ships. It can also be driven or towed aboard roll-

on/roll-off vessels, or onto the decks of barges from a pier, when tidal conditions are suitable and ramps are available.

The M973 can be loaded onto seagoing vessels by shoreside or floating cranes or by heavy-lift ship's gear.

d. Lighterage. When transporting the M973 by lighter to or from vessels, blocking will be required. When trans-

porting the M973 by lighter over extended distances or through rough water, tiedowns must also be used.

6-1