TM 5-3805-261-10
OPERATION UNDER UNUSUAL CONDITIONS - CONTINUED
0007 00
OPERATE IN EXTREME COLD
0007 00
1.
General.
Extreme cold causes many problems:
a.
Lubricants thicken or congeal.
b.
Batteries may freeze or lose their electrical efficiency.
c.
Electrical insulation may crack and cause short circuits.
d.
Fuel may not readily atomize for combustion.
e.
Various materials will become hard, brittle, and easily damaged.
f.
The cooling system requires adequate protection from extreme cold.
g.
Fuels, lubricants, and antifreeze compounds require special storage, handling, and use.
Refer to FM 9-207 for additional information.
2.
Cooling System.
a.
Inspect for leaks and general condition.
b.
Make sure clamps are tight.
c.
Check fluid level in radiator.
d.
Notify Unit Maintenance if system needs service.
3.
Fuel Tank.
a.
Do not allow fuel tank to remain partially empty for a long period of time in extremely cold weather.
b.
Fill after each work period to help avoid water condensation in the fuel tank.
c.
Remove all ice and snow from around the fuel filler opening before refueling.
4.
Electrical System.
a.
Inspect battery cables, wiring harness, and wiring.
b.
Check for breaks or cracks caused by cold weather. Report any problems found to Unit Maintenance.
c.
Save the batteries. Use lights and other electrical equipment as little as possible.
5.
Lubrication.
Lubricate according to Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS) Introduction with the temperature range
that applies to the lowest expected temperature.
6.
Engine Operation.
a.
Before starting, make sure fuel and oil in the engine, transmission, and tandems are thin enough to flow.
b.
If oil drips from the dipstick, it is thin enough for engine to be started.
Use Starting Engine Below 32F (0C) Using Ether Starting Aid procedure in WP 0005 00 and allow engine time
c.
to reach operating temperature. Be alert that tires may be frozen to ground.
d.
Hold hydraulic unloading valve down to reduce load on engine starter.
e.
Keep hydraulic unloading valve down one to two minutes after the engine starts.
f.
With the engine running at low idle, release the hydraulic unloading valve slowly to allow the pump to be loaded
gradually with the cold, thickened oil.
g.
Run the engine at reduced speed only long enough to circulate the oil through the engine. Then increase engine
speed and warm up the engine. Low idling speeds during extremely cold temperatures can result in incomplete
combustion and form heavy deposits on the valves.
h.
Cover radiator if necessary to bring engine up to operating temperature.
0007 00-2
