BLUF: Keep these helpful reminders in mind when dumping loads using the M917A3 30-ton heavy dump truck.
Courtesy photo
Maintenance leaders, the M917A3 30-ton heavy dump truck is a whole lot of truck. Here’s a few reminders for Soldiers using the truck to dump loads of dirt or gravel. While they’re mentioned in the TM, they’re often overlooked while operating the truck on a busy construction site.
1. Follow the Before and During operations PMCS in TM 5-2320-459-10 (Jun 21) for the parking brake. Push the yellow knob to release the vehicle’s parking brake. Pull the knob to apply the parking brake.
Push yellow knob to release parking brake or pull to apply parking brake.
2. Don’t forget that before dumping a load, air must be released out of the truck’s air bags. Push the air suspension dump switch that’s inside the cab. The switch is shown as Item 5, Table 25, Page 0004-26 of TM 5-2320-459-10 (Jun 21). The dump bed won’t raise unless you push the switch.
Air suspension dump switch inside cab.
3. Before operations, check the camera to make sure there aren't any rocks, mud or obstructions to the camera's glass lens. Note that the camera is not to be used for backing up the truck.
Before operations PMCS table in TM advises to check the camera.
4. Make sure the mud flaps are secured before you dump a load. That way they won’t get damaged or torn off the mud flap bracket.
Secure the mud flaps before dumping load so flaps avoid damage.